Charles L. Gillum, Jr., Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology
Location
Education
Au.D. | A.T. Still University | Mesa, AZ
M.A. | Audiology | Kansas State University | Manhattan, KS
B.S. | Audiology and Speech Pathology | Kansas State University | Manhattan, KS
Memberships
Fellow | American Academy of Audiology
Fellow | Academy of Doctors of Audiology
Work
After seeing the world through a three-year stint in the Navy following high school, Charlie Gillum didn’t have to look far for career inspiration. Following the lead of his father, a hearing aid dispenser, he gravitated toward audiology in school, eventually establishing Hearing Doctors of Kansas in 1983.
Gillum later welcomed partners Kevin Ruggle and Justin Tourtillott to round out the group.
“We help each other out and don’t worry about the small stuff. If one of us needs help, we say, ‘Absolutely.’ We’re all good friends, so it’s more like a family.”
Life
Gillum grew up in Pennsylvania and Delaware before moving to Manhattan for his high school years, and eventually calling it home with his own family. Along with their three children (and two labradoodles), Gillum and his wife, Anne, live in Manhattan’s famed Kimble Castle, originally built in the late 1800s.
When he’s not renovating or maintaining their personal fortress (suit of armor and three turrets included), Gillum is heavily involved in triathlons. He made the U.S. national team the last three years, and finished second in the last two National Senior Olympics. Though his oldest son inherited his dad’s passion for triathlons, Gillum claims it will still be awhile before the lad can outrun him.
“I really appreciate your kindness and concern. It is wonderful to be able to hear again.”
Sue from Greenleaf, KS
Quick Quote
“My favorite thing is when you find somebody that had to sacrifice things because they just couldn’t hear — and then you’ve got them hearing well, and they’re able to go back and do what they like to do.”