When Broc learned he had been named Hear‑o of the Year for 2025, his reaction was one of genuine surprise. “I feel like I’ve only just begun developing my involvement with Cochlear and their outreach,” he shared. “To be awarded this is so amazing.”
Broc, a bilateral Cochlear® Nucleus® Implant recipient, has been praised for his authenticity and openness. He speaks honestly about the positive impact cochlear implants have had on his life and expresses deep gratitude for the technology that helped shape his future. That authenticity resonates with families facing life‑changing decisions.
For Broc, volunteering has never been about recognition — it’s about giving back. “I joined the Cochlear Volunteer Community to support people learning about cochlear implants or living with them,” he explained. “I didn’t do it to be recognized. I was just being myself.”
A volunteer journey rooted in family and advocacy
Broc’s motivation to volunteer didn’t appear out of nowhere — it was shaped by years of watching his parents advocate fiercely on his behalf. When cochlear implants were less common, his parents fought to ensure he had access to the tools and support needed to thrive.
“This childhood experience built the standard for advocacy,” Broc explained. “It gave me the drive to say hi to anyone with hearing loss and let them know there are lots of us. If sharing my experience helps someone, I will.”
Broc’s journey toward independence and empowerment
College at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) was transformative for Broc. As one of two nationally funded schools supporting hard‑of‑hearing and Deaf students, RIT offered a large, vibrant community. “Coming from an area where I was one of the few young people born profoundly deaf, the exposure to this environment helped shape my confidence. It builds you up to know there are others your age who share similar experiences.”
Moments that make an impact
After college, Broc attended a Hearing Loss Association of America Walk 4 Hearing event, where he met Genevieve, a Cochlear Engagement Manager and discovered a new way to share his story. As a Cochlear volunteer, he now serves on pediatric and adult panels, answering questions and offering guidance to individuals and families considering cochlear implants. One virtual panel left a lasting impression, when a mother of a profoundly deaf child shifted from fear to calm. “You could see her begin to understand her child’s future potential,” Broc recalled.
When speaking with someone considering a cochlear implant, Broc always tries to convey one message: “There will be adversity and difficulties in the journey, but if you persevere, advocate and take care of yourself and your equipment, the outcomes are hugely rewarding to your quality of life.”
A glimpse into Broc’s life beyond volunteering
Outside of volunteering, Broc loves staying active and embracing adventure. He even ran his first—and, as he jokes, last—marathon in October 2025 in the rain. He enjoys soccer, traveling, hiking, skiing, ATV riding, relaxing at the pool or beach and spending time with friends and family. Growing up on a family hobby farm, where weekends were spent riding horses and helping with outdoor projects, shaped his lifelong love of being active and outdoors.
Congratulations Broc, on being the 2025 Hear-o of the Year. You can connect with a volunteer like Broc and find out more about their experience with a hearing implant.
