Empowering Companies to Become Deaf-Inclusive
I help businesses, teams, and families gain the knowledge and skills they need to hire, retain, and genuinely support Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) employees and to attract and serve Deaf customers with confidence. With decades of experience as an educator, consultant, and advocate, by teaching ASL I help transform workplaces into places where Deaf and Hard of Hearing (D/HH) people can thrive.
Why I Do This Work
I have a severe-to-profound hearing loss caused by spinal meningitis at 16 months old. I grew up as one of the only Deaf students in my school, often without an interpreter and with limited access. My life changed when I discovered the 1988 Deaf President Now movement at Gallaudet University and later learned ASL. A friend described the transformation perfectly: I became “unlocked.”
That moment set me on the path to dedicating my career to improving the lives of Deaf and Hard of Hearing people as well as helping hearing people and families learn how to communicate effectively and inclusively.
My Expertise
- Master’s in Deaf Education
- Ph.D. in Educational Leadership (University of Maryland) with research on the academic and social success of Deaf college students
- Teaching experience at seven colleges, plus K–12
- Elementary teacher at a school for the deaf
- National Virtual Teachers Certificate
- More than 7 years teaching ASL remotely, plus in-person instruction
My research and work focus on how organizations can become more Deaf-friendly, improve communication access, and welcome more Deaf and disabled customers. This mission is at the heart of Sign Class.
How Sign Class Began
Sign Class started in my living room just outside Washington, D.C., when I began offering ASL classes to my housemates and neighbors. I created a custom workbook, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. That early success led to college teaching positions across Maryland, Virginia, and Oregon and eventually to launching Sign Class, LLC in 2019.
Who I Help
In addition to working with businesses and corporations, I also teach individuals, groups, and families—both in person and online. Since 90% of D/HH children are born to hearing parents, early access to ASL is essential for healthy communication and long-term success.
Why Sign Class Works
I bring lived experience, academic expertise, and practical teaching strategies together to create training that is:
- Inclusive
- Accessible
- Culturally informed
- Engaging and fun
- Proven effective
Whether you’re a company wanting to create a more inclusive workplace or a family wanting to communicate with your child, I’m here to help you succeed.
