William G. Vicars: An introduction to William G. Vicars, Ed.D. Hello ASL Heroes! Great to meet you! I'm Bill Vicars. My students tend to call me "Dr. Bill" or "Dr. V." My folks tend to call me Billy. What my wife calls me depends on a number of factors. I'm president and owner of the Lifeprint Institute, a consultation business focusing on technology-enhanced delivery of ASL Instruction, excursion-based instruction (trips to amusement parks), and extended-immersion-based program coordination (intense two-week residencies). I also have a "day job." I am full-time tenured Associate Professor of American Sign Language and Deaf Studies at California State University, Sacramento. I am "Deaf/hh." What that means is I am physically hard-of-hearing and have chosen to live in the Deaf World (e.g. marry a Deaf woman, use ASL, work in the field of Deaf-Studies, worship at a Deaf church, devote my time to developing ASL-related resources for others, etc.). I learned ASL in my youth from a Deaf woman (Kathy Hadfield-Erwin) who lived in the same small town (Brigham City, Utah) where I grew up. Forgive this next bit of information (I share it because some people want to know their instructor's qualifications). Some of my degrees and certifications (past and/or present) include: Ed.D. (Education Doctorate) in Deaf Studies/Deaf Education from Lamar University (accredited), Masters in Deaf Education (accredited), MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer), MCT (Microsoft Certified Trainer), A+ (COMPTia Computer Technician), N+ (Network Technician), ASLTA certification (American Sign Language Teachers Association), and "EdNet" (Distance Education Certificate). Most of which have probably expired (except the degrees, last I checked they don't have an expiration date). At one point I studied for and passed the Utah Real Estate License exam, but as it turns out I didn't want to spend my life trying to lipread clients from the side while driving them around to look at houses (plus my hearing aid is almost worthless in a car due to road noise.) Oh well -- at least it spurred me on to go back to school and get my doctorate. Some of my current and/or past experiences and qualifications include: - Over 20 years experience as a university-level ASL instructor - Authored and self-published "Sign Me Up!" (A really cool 212-page ASL Guide and activity book. Sorry, sold out all 3,000 copies--but I turned it into the Lifeprint website.) - Directed an 18-month Interpreter Training Workshop (twice!) - Co-chaired the Disability Law Center's Consumer Advisory Council (UT) - Served a term as an elected board member of the Utah Association for the Deaf - Parent of a child who attended the Utah State School for the Deaf pre-school program - Set up and directed a not-for-profit a 501(c)(3) organization to improve Deaf access to services - Served as Advisor to the Sign Language Association (ASL Club) at Weber State University (an award winning organization). - As far as I know, I was the first ASL instructor from Utah to earn certification from the American Sign Language Teachers Association. A bit of nostalgia for you -- way back when I first joined ASLTA they called themselves S.I.G.N. (Sign Instructors Guidance Network). Hooyah! Yadda, yadda, yadda... and a bunch of other stuff. For the past few years I've been focusing on my duties as Coordinator of the ASL and Deaf Studies Program at California State University, Sacramento where I teach a variety of Deaf Studies courses and topics, (ASL linguistics, Classifiers, Medical Signing, etc.). Don't let the "coordinator" title impress you. It is just code for "work harder with no extra pay." My colleagues and I take turns being coordinator every three years and I was glad to do my part. (My "part" is/was from Fall '09 to Spring of 2012). For over 20 years now I've enjoyed being married to a wonderful person named Belinda (Williams) Vicars. We have four terrific orangutans, er, kids. My wife also teaches ASL. (She is actually a better ASL teacher than I am -- but at least I tell better jokes. Or maybe she is just being polite when she laughs? Hmmm. Gotta think on that.) She was born deaf as a result of the rubella epidemic of 1964. (Whoopsie, gave away her age. Shhhh, act surprised when you find out.) She attended a day-program for the Deaf in Bakersfield, California. She learned ASL prior to learning how to talk. She has taught college ASL classes and numerous community education ASL courses for many years. She's a wonderful mom, and is rumored to be a great cook. Once in a while I let her beat me in Scrabble. (It is good for her self-esteem.) People ask us if our children are Deaf. I tell them my kids are "hard of listening" (heh). [That isn't a technical term folks.] The older three kids have normal hearing (when they want to). They understand ASL quite well and tend to sign when they want something. The youngest, Sarah, is Deaf/hh. She also has Apert's syndrome. But she is a bundle of joy and energy. (She's a brave, spunky kid I'll tell you.) She attended the Utah State School for the Deaf pre-school day-program. Then she attended a "special ed" program at a local charter school. Currently she attends high school here in Sacramento. We share a home in Sacramento, California with several small furry creatures, (that's pets. The pets are furry, not the kids). - Dr. Bill Frequently Asked Questions: Question: Are you Deaf? Answer: I was born hard-of-hearing and as time goes on I become more and more physically Deaf. For the majority of my life I have lived in the Deaf World (e.g. Deaf wife, hang out with Deaf friends, use ASL, work in the Deaf-Studies field, worship at a Deaf church, devote my time to developing ASL-related resources for others, etc.) I use close-captioning (subtitles) when I watch videos. I can pretty much understand what people are saying if it is one-on-one in a quiet environment, I've got my hearing-aid in, and I can see their face. But if it is a group setting, or if the person is more than a few feet away, has a mustache, an accent, or a bright light behind them I prefer to have an interpreter. Question: Where did you learn ASL? I started learning ASL as a youth from a Deaf woman, (Kathy Hadfield of Brigham City, Utah. She later married Mark Erwin -- so she is now Kathy Erwin.) Then when I grew older I learned more as I lived with Deaf roommates, and hung out with other Deaf people. Here are a few of the experiences that influenced me: * Worked as a volunteer at the the Indiana School for the Deaf (as a teacher's assistant in Laura Gaalema's third grade class) * Worked as a volunteer for GLAD Orange County Outreach in California * Worked as a volunteer the (former) Indiana Branch Office (anybody remember that one?) of the National Association of the Deaf * Lived on-campus at Gallaudet University during a summer internship program. * Took night classes at the Oregon School for the Deaf (Salem). * Participated in a couple hundred hours worth of "American Judicial System" - related ASL training at a summer program at California State University Northridge * Attended many, many workshops * Researched ASL Linguistics, ASL acquisition, and Computer Assisted Language Learning during my doctoral studies Lamar University * Directed/participated in 15 years of "immersion excursions" to exciting places with Deaf co-hosts * Directing an interpreter-training program for Davis County school district during which I interviewed, hired, and worked closely with many (over 30) Deaf guest-speakers and/or trainers * And lately I spend much of my time discussing the nuances of ASL with my d/Deaf colleagues at work. Question: Are you a member of the "Deaf Community?" Answer: Almost all of my close friends and associates are tied to the Deaf Community. For most of my life I've lived in the Deaf World. Serving in Deaf organizations, setting up Deaf events, working with Deaf people, teaching ASL, etc.) Belinda and I never expected any of our children to be Deaf, but Sarah (our fourth) was born with a substantial hearing loss due to having Aperts (a rare syndrome). Sarah attended the Utah State School for the Deaf pre-school program. Question: Are you certified? I hold a doctorate in Deaf Education / Deaf Studies from an accredited university (Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas). I hold a masters in Deaf Education from Lamar university. I am (or was -- depending on if I have renewed or not) certified by the American Sign Language Teachers Association. I was a member of ASLTA back when they were still S.I.G.N. (Sign Instructors Guidance Network). As far as I have been able to ascertain, I was the first person from Utah to become ASLTA certified. (I'm now in California.) When I was much younger I actually used to be a certified interpreter (I used to put on both hearing aids and crank them up. It doesn't work anymore though--too Deaf now). Question: What kind of experience do you have teaching ASL? Teaching ASL is my life's work. I taught ASL at Weber State University in Ogden, Utah for over a decade. I have also taught ASL classes and/or workshops at the Utah Community Center for the Deaf, the IRS, Hill Air Force Base, Defense Depot Ogden Utah, Mills Montessori School, the Newgate Mall, Your Community Connection of Ogden, Clearfield Community Schools, Davis County School District, Weber County School District, Ogden City Corporation, The Sign Language Studio, Lifeprint Institute, Lamar University in Beaumont Texas, The Sign Language Association, California State University--Sacramento, and dozens of other places. (Geeze, I must be getting old to have that many experiences.) [Editor's note: Since I wrote the above, I've added "Guyana, South America" to the list. By far the hardest work -- and the most fun.] Question: I read somewhere that you got a degree from ___________ University. I'm thinking about going with them. Do you think that program is worth while? t is certainly more affordable then other programs. Are they fairly well accepted in the professional field? ANSWER: No. Don't go with ___________. It seemed like such a good idea at the time to go with ___________ since they were (and I believe still are) approved by the California State Board of Education. Of the various degrees out there I (at first) thought they were a good choice. It was a mistake. I ended up repenting of that mistake by going BACK to a DIFFERENT school at an accredited university for *three additional years* to get an accredited doctoral degree. I went back to school because it became evident to me that to have "rock solid" credibility I'd have to have a degree from an accredited college. It is that simple. So, the second time around I chose Lamar University (in Beaumont, Texas) because of their excellent program and consistent support for best practices in Deaf Education. They are innovative and were willing to let me develop new ideas and technology. Going back to school meant selling my house (at a $30,000 loss) and moving my family of six half-way across the country -- but it was worth it. I'm glad I did it. Note: These days there are a number of accredited doctoral programs out there now with minimal residency requirements that are certainly worth checking into. Belinda completed an accredited degree in Creative Writing from a distance education program offered by Union Institute (an affiliate of Vermont College). Then she went on to earn an accredited Master of Fine Arts Degree in Creative Writing through a program in Oregon that combined distance education with summer residencies. It worked out very well for her. WILLIAM G. VICARS, EdD Associate Professor of ASL and Deaf Studies California State University - Sacramento, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95819-6079 (916) 374-7210 (VP), (916) 278-3498 (fax), (916) 278-6622 (dept. secretary) Preferred contact: BillVicars@aol.com EDUCATION Ed.D., Deaf Education / Deaf Studies, Lamar University, Beaumont TX, (2003) M.S., Deaf Studies/Deaf Education, Lamar University, Beaumont TX, (2000) B.A., Communication / Public Relations, Weber State University, Ogden, UT (1991) EXPERIENCE: California State University – Sacramento American Sign Language and Deaf Studies Program Associate Professor, (2003 — present) Program Coordinator, (2009 Fall — 2012 Fall) Taught Deaf Studies and American Sign Language courses. Coordinated course offerings and teaching schedules. College of Continuing Education, California State University – Sacramento ASL Online and Immersion Programs Instructor / Faculty Director, (2004 — present, part-time) Taught Deaf Studies and American Sign Language courses. Coordinated course offerings and teaching schedules. Sierra College, Department of Deaf Studies, Rocklin, California Adjunct Instructor, (2009 — present, part-time) Taught Deaf Studies and American Sign Language courses. Lifeprint Institute (www.Lifeprint.com) American Sign Language Distance Education Training Director / Webmaster / Curriculum Developer / Lexicographer (1989 — present, part-time) Designed, created, and maintained an online ASL resource center for interpreters, students, and parents of deaf children. Lamar University, Department of Communication Disorders and Deaf Education Adjunct Instructor / Graduate Assistant (2000 — 2003, part-time) Taught Deaf Studies and American Sign Language courses as a graduate assistant for the academic department and as an adjunct for Department of Continuing Education. IKON Office Solutions, Layton UT Information Technology Instructor, (1998—2000) Taught computer repair and networking courses as a Microsoft Certified Trainer. Easter Seals Society Employment Specialist, (1991—1993) Provided employment support services for individuals with disabilities. Weber State University Department of Communication Adjunct Instructor (1988 — 1998) Taught Deaf Studies and American Sign Language courses. ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE (Limited duration projects and freelance work) Marygrove College, Michigan Microsoft Certified Trainer/ Information Technology Instructor (1999 — 2000, part-time) Taught computer repair and networking courses. Stevens Henager College Substitute Instructor / Information Technology Instructor (1999 — 1999, part-time) Taught an "HTML" (web design) course. Davis county School District, Utah Director, Interpreter Training Program (1995—1997, part-time) Set up and directed an in-service accelerated Interpreter Training Program. Weber County School District, Utah Community Education Instructor, American Sign Language, (1992—1997, part-time) Taught Deaf Studies and American Sign Language courses. Davis County School District, Utah Community Education Instructor, American Sign Language (1992—1997, part-time) Taught Deaf Studies and American Sign Language courses. Church Education System, Ogden UT Instructor, (1991-1992, part-time) Taught seminary courses to Deaf youth. RESEARCH AND CREATIVE ACTIVITY: Vicars, W. (2007), Sign Language Field Manual: Fingerseek. Lulu Press [ISBN 0-9749543-1-4] Vicars, W. (2007), ABC Slider. Lifeprint Press: http://asl.gs Vicars, W. (2006), ASL Number Practice Tool. Lifeprint Press http://www.asl.bz Vicars, W. (2005), Fingerspelling Practice Tool. Lifeprint Press http://www.asl.ms Vicars, W. (2003-2007), ASLpah! Ezine and Forum. Lifeprint Press <http://aslpah.com> [Monthly circulation: 10,000 opt-in subscribers.] Vicars, W. (1998), Sign Me Up! Lifeprint Press [Print run: 3,000 copies, sold out] [ISBN: 0-9749543-0-6) 212 pages. Out of print.] Vicars, W. (1997-2012), ASL University, Lifeprint http://www.Lifeprint.com Online American Sign Language lesson materials and coursework hosted at www.Lifeprint.com Average number of unique visitors per month: 200,894 Average Number of Visits: 353278 Number of files: 38,368 files Number of Hyperlinks: 257,490 Consistently Listed among the top 10 results for numerous Google search terms including: "ASL," "American Sign Language," and "Sign Language." PUBLICATIONS IN WHICH WILLIAM G. VICARS' IMAGES OR ARTWORK APPEAR (partial list) * Language files: materials for an introduction to language and linguistics, 11^th Edition, Christin Wilson, co-editor, Ohio State University Press. (2010) * SMART Interactive Whiteboard and Interactive Table Technologies ASL Project, Tim West, Waterford Research Institute, (2010) * Language files: materials for an introduction to language and linguistics, 10^th Edition, Anouschka Bergmann, Kathleen Currie Hall, Sharon Miriam Ross, co-editors, Ohio State University Press. (2007) * ASL Curriculum for 2^nd and 3^rd Graders, Online Publication, Unitarian Universalist Association, Massachusetts. (2007) * What learning a second language might teaching us about auditory training. Barcroft, J. Sommers, M.S. & Tye-Murray, Seminars in Hearing, 28, 151-161 (2007) * Introduction to Psychology, www.ablongman.com/irc, & www.mypsychlab.com Lilienfeld, Lynn, Namy, and Woolf.. Allyn & Bacon (2007) * Abilities: The style magazine for Canadians with disabilities. Jaclyn Law, Managing Editor. (2006) * ASL Makes a Splash, Cadence Magazine, Volume 34, Lamar University, (2006) * History of ASL, Carol Breezes (2006) * Pointing and spatial layout in adult home sign systems in Nicaragua. Coppola, M., PhD Proceedings of the Boston University Conference on Language Development, 29, 144-155. Boston: Cascadilla Press. (2005) * Flash Card Program – Manual Alphabet, William C. Camp, Programmer, Texas Instruments, Missouri(2006) * Linguistic Anthropology: A One day Introduction to Sign Language and Deaf Culture. http://linganth.blogspot.com/2006/12/lesson-suggestions-for-introduction-to.html & http://disstud.blogspot.com/2006/11/introduction-to-sign-languages-and.html (2006) * Jamaican Introductory Sign Language and Training Handbook. Gregory Bryan, Georgia Caribbean American Heritage Coalition, Jamaica (2006) * Barbara L. Hocking, M.A. (2010). Workshop: Signs of Nature, "The 2010 Conference of the American Horticultural Therapy Association" Glencoe, Illinois * Tessa Smith, (2010). Disability Employment Awareness Month (web page), Diversity Events Committee, Internal Communications & Diversity, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport * Mary Sterritt, (2010). Daylight Project: Front staff training program, Powerpoint presentation, Mental Health Center of Denver * P. Powell Dobbins PhD, (2008). Artist Installations with Performances, The Opening of the Art Exhibit, New Mexico * Kris Mandley, (2007). Lexical Borrowing: Loan Signs and Fingerspelling (Interpreting Workshop), Schaumburg School District 54, Illinois * Beth Orton Carlson, PhD, ASLTA. (2007). Linguistics of ASL, presentation, St. Petersburg College, Florida * Jolayne Tweedie. (2007). Approaches to Teaching Deaf Children in Malaysia, Johor Area Rehabilitation Organization, Malyasia * Eddy F. Laird PhD. (2007). ASL Semantics: Types of Meaning, (McDaniel University), at ASL Fest - Gallaudet University’s Center for ASL Literacy * P. Powell Dobbins, PhD. (2007). Artist Installations with Performances, Historical Conference, Texas * National Science Foundation Program. (2007). Web-based Teaching of Sign Language, Historically Black College or Universities Undergraduate Summer Research Program * Aurora BayCare Medical Center. (2006). Basic ASL Signs for Health Care Professionals, Wisconsin GRANTS AND AWARDS 2010 Sabbatical Leave Award, ASL Fluency and Deaf Literacy Project. 2009: Research and Creative Activities Award: "Deaflympics" Taipei, Taiwan: Study of lexical gaps in ASL 2008: Professional Development Grant: "Train the ASL Trainer" Guyana, South America: Train Deaf Education Instructors 2008: ELIXR Grant: Universal Design, (http://pachyderm.cdl.edu/elixr-stories/udl-sign-language/) Model best practices 2006: Pedagogy Enhancement Award, Development of an Online American Sign Language Number Practice Tool 2006: Teaching Using Technology Award (2^nd year) Development of basic ASL letter learning tool 2005: Teaching Using Technology Award: Development of an Online American Sign Language Fingerspelling Practice Tool 2004: International/Global Education Faculty Development Grant: Linguistics of ASL Online Course for ASL teachers and Interpreters PRESENTATIONS * ASL Wahoo! Engaging Students via Technology, Cal Ed Conference, Sacramento (2010) * Teaching ASL Online, Sierra College, California (2010) * Train the ASL Trainer, Clear Creek Independent School District, Texas (2010) * ASL Pragmatics, Houston Community College, Texas (2010) * ASL Safari Train the Sign Language Trainer Series, Guyana, South America (2008) * Universal Design: ELIXR, Directors of Educational Technology - California Higher Education Conference (2008) * Train the ASL Trainer: Methodology of Distance Education, California State University, Sacramento (2008) * Deaf Awareness Week: American Sign Language, California Department of Education (2007) * Interpreter Training Series, Carson City School District, Nevada (2007) * ASL Safari: Immersion Camp for Certifying Interpreters, Grover Hot Springs, Sierra Nevada Mountains, California (2007) * How to Put your PowerPoints on a Diet, California State University, Sacramento (2007) * ASL Training Series for Employees who Work and Interact with the California Schools for the Deaf, California Department of Education (2007) * Interpreter Training Series, Carson City School District, Nevada (2006) * Extreme Roll Shift: An American Sign Language mini-workshop on Dramatic Characterization Techniques, California State University, Sacramento (2006) * American Sign Language and Computer Assisted Language Learning, College of Continuing Education, China Programs & Jinan, China Delegation California State University, Sacramento (2006) * ASL Safari: Immersion Camp for Certifying Interpreters, Grover Hot Springs, Sierra Nevada Mountains, California (2006) * Train the ASL Trainer, North West ASLTA, Washington (2005) * The Linguistics of American Sign Language, World Language Day Conference, California State University, Sacramento (2004) * ASL Pragmatics, College of Continuing Education, California State University, Sacramento (2003) * Training Series: ASL for Employees with Work and Interact with Deaf Employees, Morton International, Utah (1993) * Disability Awareness and ADA, Department of Management Services, Ogden City, Utah (1993) * Interacting with Deaf Youth, Office of Youth Ministry, Utah (1993) * Training Series: ASL for Employees with Work and Interact with Deaf Employees, United States Department of Agriculture, Utah (1993) * Deaf Studies Training Series, Utah Interpreter Services, Utah Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (1992) * American Sign Language Training Series: Communicating with Deaf Patients, McKay Dee Hospital Center, Utah (1992) * Diversity Awareness, Multiple Sclerosis Society (1992) * Diversity Awareness, Federal Aviation Administration, Utah (1992) * Training Series: ASL for Employees who Work and Interact with Deaf Employees, Internal Revenue Service, Department of Treasure, Utah (1991) CONTINUED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT * Using Technology to Enhance Education Services for Students who are Deaf or HoH Midwest Center for Postsecondary Outreach, St. Paul Technical College, Minnesota (2002) * Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer Training Program: MCSE, A+, N+, and MCP+I, IKON Office Solutions / Microsoft Corporation (1998) * Introduction to Network and Internet Lab Management, Utah LINK Training for Distance Education, University of Utah (1998) * EDNET Copyright, Utah Education Network, Utah State Office of Education (1998) * ASL Numbers and Fingerspelling, Utah Interpreter Services, Salt Lake Community College (1998) * ASL Register and Nonmanual Markers, Utah Interpreter Services, Salt Lake Community College (1998) * Methods of Teaching ASL, Salt Lake Community College, Utah (1998) * Training Series: Partners in Policy Making, Utah Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities (1997) * Introduction to the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness, Legal Center for People with Disabilities (1996) * Semantics of ASL, Utah Community Center for the Deaf, Utah State Division of Services for the Adult Deaf and Hard of Hearing (1995) * Course Series: Human Services, Pacific Western University (1993—1994) * Advanced Employment Specialist and Vocational Training, Technical Assistance and Continuing Education, Univ. of Northern Colorado (1992—1993) * American Judicial System/Deaf Community Liaison Training program, California State University, Northridge (1993) * Writing the Grant Proposal, The Grantsmanship Center, Utah (1993) * Assistive Technology for Vocational Training Programs, Easter Seals Society of Utah, Salt Lake Community College (1993) * Trends in Vocational Training, Southern Utah University (1993) * The Deaf Mentor Model Project, The Ski Hi Institute, Utah State University (1993) * Legal Interpreting Workshop, Utah Interpreter Services, tah Community Center for the Deaf (1992) * Organizational Behavior, Army Institute for Professional Development, Utah (1989—1990) * Training Series: Investment in Excellence, The Pacific Institute, Washington & Department of Defense, Utah (1989) SERVICE National and International 2008-present Guyana, South America: Deaf in Guyana (DIG) Committee advisor / consultant. 2010-2010 Federal Bureau of Investigation, Liad Akronowitz, ASL Training Project, consultant 2006 Israel Center for the Deaf, Israel, Curriculum Development and Instruction for Deaf Israelis, consultant 2006 Georgia Caribbean American Heritage Coalition, Jamaica, "Jamaican Introductory Sign Language and Training programme," consultant State & Local 2010 Folsom/Cordova Unified School District Special Needs Resource Development Program / David Schetter's Deaf & Hard of Hearing Resource Group, member 2010 Deaf Coalition: "Anti AB2072" Participated in efforts to defeat this legislation. Visited legislator's offices, attended the senate committee hearing at State Capitol, engaged in video phone campaign, participated in opposition rallies, etc. 2009 "California Department of Education Deaf Awareness Week," State Office of Education, lobby display: Deaf Studies, guest representative 2006-2006 California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, California Subject Examination for Teachers, CSET:ASL, Scoring Level and Evaluations Development Subcommittee, member 2005-2005 California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, California Subject Examination for Teachers, CSET:ASL, Bias Subcommittee, member University 2007 CSUS University-wide "Preview Day," faculty representative 2007 Instructional Materials Accessibility Subcommittee, member 2006-2007 ADA Technology Consultant, Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action College 2008-present Affirmative Action Representative (F 08-Sp 11) 2008-present Dean’s Advisory Council, alternate (F 08 - Sp 11) 2007 Search Committee, College Director of Information Technology, member 2007 Outside reader/advisor for CSUS College of Education masters degree candidate Chandra Ashton, 2006-2007 Dean’s Advisory Council, member 2006-2008 Technology Advisory Committee, alternate (F 08-Sp 10) 2006-2008 Technology Advisory Committee, chair 2004-2005 Technology Advisory Committee, co-chair 2004-2010 Established and directed Online ASL Program, College of Continuing Education 2004-2010 Established and directed Summer ASL Immersion Program: College of Continuing Education Department 2007 Deaf Studies Search Committee, chair 2005 Deaf Studies Search Committee, member 2005 Field Trip: Set up and directed student ASL immersion (Knottsberry Farm) 2004 Field Trip: Set up and directed student ASL immersion (Marine World) 2004-2005 ASL Certificate Program Advisory Committee 2003-2005 Established and advised the student group: "The Sign Language Association" 2004-Present Student Advising 2003 Field Trip: Set up and directed student ASL immersion (Disneyland) Community 2010 Car Donation Project, facilitated the donation of a car to a low income Deaf family 2010 Hacienda La Puente Adult School, California, Curriculum Web Development and Consultation 2010 Funeral of local Deaf Community member, conducted religious service 2007 SIGNews, Kelly Sargent, staff writer, Communication Service for the Deaf, Inc (CSD), Interviewee 2007 Dr. Jean Andrews, Lamar University, Field Research Collaboration 2007 Two Little Hands Productions, PBS, Signing Times, American Sign Language panel expert 2006 New York City ASL Meet Up Group, curriculum consultant 2006 LK Moss Primary School, Georgia, nonverbal hearing children, advisor 2006 Sacramento County Office of Education, Prevention and Student Services, ASL and Deaf related services, consultant 2006 Florida State University Emergency Response Project, Designed prototype signage and descriptive images 2006 Office of Assemblyman John J. Benoit, Assembly Bill 49; consultation regarding interpreting 2006 Austin Community College ASL and Interpreting Program, consultation regarding Linguistic Query: Iconic versus Onomatopoeia 2005 Sacramento County Department of Health and Human Services employee ASL Skills Evaluation 2004 Lamar University, Dept of Communication Disorders and Deaf Education, Leadership Training in Deaf Education, Advisory Committee, member 2004 NuTV – Channel 95, Utah, "Disability Awareness and Sensitivity Issues" advisor You can learn American Sign Language (ASL) online at American Sign Language University ™ ASL resources by Lifeprint.com © Dr. William Vicars Dr. Bill's new iPhone "Fingerspelling Practice" app is available now for just 99 cents! GET IT HERE! NEW! Online "ASL Training Center!" (Premium Subscription Version of ASLU) CHECK IT OUT Also available: "ASLUniversity.com" (a mirror of Lifeprint.com less traffic, fast access) VISIT NOW Want to help support Lifeprint / ASLU? It's easy!

William G. Vicars:

An introduction to William G. Vicars, Ed.D.

Hello ASL Heroes!
Great to meet you!

I'm Bill Vicars.
My students tend to call me "Dr. Bill" or "Dr. V."
My folks tend to call me Billy.
What my wife calls me depends on a number of factors.

I'm president and owner of the Lifeprint Institute, a consultation business focusing on technology-enhanced delivery of ASL Instruction, excursion-based instruction (trips to amusement parks), and extended-immersion-based program coordination (intense two-week residencies).

I also have a "day job." I am full-time tenured Associate Professor of American Sign Language and Deaf Studies at California State University, Sacramento.

I am "Deaf/hh." What that means is I am physically hard-of-hearing and have chosen to live in the Deaf World (e.g. marry a Deaf woman, use ASL, work in the field of Deaf-Studies, worship at a Deaf church, devote my time to developing ASL-related resources for others, etc.).

I learned ASL in my youth from a Deaf woman (Kathy Hadfield-Erwin) who lived in the same small town (Brigham City, Utah) where I grew up.

Forgive this next bit of information (I share it because some people want to know their instructor's qualifications).

Some of my degrees and certifications (past and/or present) include:

Ed.D. (Education Doctorate) in Deaf Studies/Deaf Education from Lamar University (accredited), Masters in Deaf Education (accredited), MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer), MCT (Microsoft Certified Trainer), A+ (COMPTia Computer Technician), N+ (Network Technician), ASLTA certification (American Sign Language Teachers Association), and "EdNet" (Distance Education Certificate). Most of which have probably expired (except the degrees, last I checked they don't have an expiration date).

At one point I studied for and passed the Utah Real Estate License exam, but as it turns out I didn't want to spend my life trying to lipread clients from the side while driving them around to look at houses (plus my hearing aid is almost worthless in a car due to road noise.) Oh well -- at least it spurred me on to go back to school and get my doctorate.

Some of my current and/or past experiences and qualifications include:

- Over 20 years experience as a university-level ASL instructor
- Authored and self-published "Sign Me Up!" (A really cool 212-page ASL Guide and activity book. Sorry, sold out all 3,000 copies--but I turned it into the Lifeprint website.)
- Directed an 18-month Interpreter Training Workshop (twice!)
- Co-chaired the Disability Law Center's Consumer Advisory Council (UT)
- Served a term as an elected board member of the Utah Association for the Deaf
- Parent of a child who attended the Utah State School for the Deaf pre-school program
- Set up and directed a not-for-profit a 501(c)(3) organization to improve Deaf access to services
- Served as Advisor to the Sign Language Association (ASL Club) at Weber State University (an award winning organization).
- As far as I know, I was the first ASL instructor from Utah to earn certification from the American Sign Language Teachers Association. A bit of nostalgia for you -- way back when I first joined ASLTA they called themselves S.I.G.N. (Sign Instructors Guidance Network). Hooyah!

Yadda, yadda, yadda... and a bunch of other stuff.

For the past few years I've been focusing on my duties as Coordinator of the ASL and Deaf Studies Program at California State University, Sacramento where I teach a variety of Deaf Studies courses and topics, (ASL linguistics, Classifiers, Medical Signing, etc.). Don't let the "coordinator" title impress you. It is just code for "work harder with no extra pay." My colleagues and I take turns being coordinator every three years and I was glad to do my part. (My "part" is/was from Fall '09 to Spring of 2012).

For over 20 years now I've enjoyed being married to a wonderful person named Belinda (Williams) Vicars. We have four terrific orangutans, er, kids.

My wife also teaches ASL.

(She is actually a better ASL teacher than I am -- but at least I tell better jokes. Or maybe she is just being polite when she laughs? Hmmm. Gotta think on that.)

She was born deaf as a result of the rubella epidemic of 1964. (Whoopsie, gave away her age. Shhhh, act surprised when you find out.) She attended a day-program for the Deaf in Bakersfield, California. She learned ASL prior to learning how to talk. She has taught college ASL classes and numerous community education ASL courses for many years. She's a wonderful mom, and is rumored to be a great cook. Once in a while I let her beat me in Scrabble. (It is good for her self-esteem.)

People ask us if our children are Deaf.

I tell them my kids are "hard of listening" (heh). [That isn't a technical term folks.]

The older three kids have normal hearing (when they want to).
They understand ASL quite well and tend to sign when they want something.

The youngest, Sarah, is Deaf/hh. She also has Apert's syndrome. But she is a bundle of joy and energy. (She's a brave, spunky kid I'll tell you.) She attended the Utah State School for the Deaf pre-school day-program. Then she attended a "special ed" program at a local charter school. Currently she attends high school here in Sacramento.

We share a home in Sacramento, California with several small furry creatures, (that's pets. The pets are furry, not the kids).

- Dr. Bill

Frequently Asked Questions:

Question: Are you Deaf?
Answer:
I was born hard-of-hearing and as time goes on I become more and more physically Deaf.
For the majority of my life I have lived in the Deaf World (e.g. Deaf wife, hang out with Deaf friends, use ASL, work in the Deaf-Studies field, worship at a Deaf church, devote my time to developing ASL-related resources for others, etc.) I use close-captioning (subtitles) when I watch videos. I can pretty much understand what people are saying if it is one-on-one in a quiet environment, I've got my hearing-aid in, and I can see their face. But if it is a group setting, or if the person is more than a few feet away, has a mustache, an accent, or a bright light behind them I prefer to have an interpreter.

Question: Where did you learn ASL?
I started learning ASL as a youth from a Deaf woman, (Kathy Hadfield of Brigham City, Utah. She later married Mark Erwin -- so she is now Kathy Erwin.) Then when I grew older I learned more as I lived with Deaf roommates, and hung out with other Deaf people. Here are a few of the experiences that influenced me:

* Worked as a volunteer at the the Indiana School for the Deaf (as a teacher's assistant in Laura Gaalema's third grade class)
* Worked as a volunteer for GLAD Orange County Outreach in California
* Worked as a volunteer the (former) Indiana Branch Office (anybody remember that one?) of the National Association of the Deaf
* Lived on-campus at Gallaudet University during a summer internship program.
* Took night classes at the Oregon School for the Deaf (Salem).
* Participated in a couple hundred hours worth of "American Judicial System" - related ASL training at a summer program at California State University Northridge
* Attended many, many workshops
* Researched ASL Linguistics, ASL acquisition, and Computer Assisted Language Learning during my doctoral studies Lamar University
* Directed/participated in 15 years of "immersion excursions" to exciting places with Deaf co-hosts
* Directing an interpreter-training program for Davis County school district during which I interviewed, hired, and worked closely with many (over 30) Deaf guest-speakers and/or trainers
* And lately I spend much of my time discussing the nuances of ASL with my d/Deaf colleagues at work.

Question: Are you a member of the "Deaf Community?"
Answer: Almost all of my close friends and associates are tied to the Deaf Community. For most of my life I've lived in the Deaf World. Serving in Deaf organizations, setting up Deaf events, working with Deaf people, teaching ASL, etc.) Belinda and I never expected any of our children to be Deaf, but Sarah (our fourth) was born with a substantial hearing loss due to having Aperts (a rare syndrome). Sarah attended the Utah State School for the Deaf pre-school program.

Question: Are you certified?
I hold a doctorate in Deaf Education / Deaf Studies from an accredited university (Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas). I hold a masters in Deaf Education from Lamar university. I am (or was -- depending on if I have renewed or not) certified by the American Sign Language Teachers Association. I was a member of ASLTA back when they were still S.I.G.N. (Sign Instructors Guidance Network). As far as I have been able to ascertain, I was the first person from Utah to become ASLTA certified. (I'm now in California.) When I was much younger I actually used to be a certified interpreter (I used to put on both hearing aids and crank them up. It doesn't work anymore though--too Deaf now).

Question: What kind of experience do you have teaching ASL?
Teaching ASL is my life's work. I taught ASL at Weber State University in Ogden, Utah for over a decade. I have also taught ASL classes and/or workshops at the Utah Community Center for the Deaf, the IRS, Hill Air Force Base, Defense Depot Ogden Utah, Mills Montessori School, the Newgate Mall, Your Community Connection of Ogden, Clearfield Community Schools, Davis County School District, Weber County School District, Ogden City Corporation, The Sign Language Studio, Lifeprint Institute, Lamar University in Beaumont Texas, The Sign Language Association, California State University--Sacramento, and dozens of other places. (Geeze, I must be getting old to have that many experiences.) [Editor's note: Since I wrote the above, I've added "Guyana, South America" to the list. By far the hardest work -- and the most fun.]

Question: I read somewhere that you got a degree from ___________ University. I'm thinking about going with them. Do you think that program is worth while? t is certainly more affordable then other programs. Are they fairly well accepted in the professional field?

ANSWER: No. Don't go with ___________. It seemed like such a good idea at the time to go with ___________ since they were (and I believe still are) approved by the California State Board of Education. Of the various degrees out there I (at first) thought they were a good choice.

It was a mistake. I ended up repenting of that mistake by going BACK to a DIFFERENT school at an accredited university for three additional years to get an accredited doctoral degree.

I went back to school because it became evident to me that to have "rock solid" credibility I'd have to have a degree from an accredited college. It is that simple.

So, the second time around I chose Lamar University (in Beaumont, Texas) because of their excellent program and consistent support for best practices in Deaf Education. They are innovative and were willing to let me develop new ideas and technology. Going back to school meant selling my house (at a $30,000 loss) and moving my family of six half-way across the country -- but it was worth it. I'm glad I did it.

Note: These days there are a number of accredited doctoral programs out there now with minimal residency requirements that are certainly worth checking into. Belinda completed an accredited degree in Creative Writing from a distance education program offered by Union Institute (an affiliate of Vermont College). Then she went on to earn an accredited Master of Fine Arts Degree in Creative Writing through a program in Oregon that combined distance education with summer residencies. It worked out very well for her.

WILLIAM G. VICARS, EdD

Associate Professor of ASL and Deaf Studies

California State University - Sacramento,
6000 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95819-6079

(916) 374-7210 (VP), (916) 278-3498 (fax), (916) 278-6622 (dept. secretary)

Preferred contact: BillVicars@aol.com

EDUCATION

Ed.D., Deaf Education / Deaf Studies, Lamar University, Beaumont TX, (2003)
M.S., Deaf Studies/Deaf Education, Lamar University, Beaumont TX, (2000)
B.A., Communication / Public Relations, Weber State University, Ogden, UT (1991)

EXPERIENCE:

California State University – Sacramento
American Sign Language and Deaf Studies Program
Associate Professor, (2003 — present)
Program Coordinator, (2009 Fall — 2012 Fall)
Taught Deaf Studies and American Sign Language courses. Coordinated course offerings and teaching schedules.

College of Continuing Education, California State University – Sacramento
ASL Online and Immersion Programs
Instructor / Faculty Director, (2004 — present, part-time)
Taught Deaf Studies and American Sign Language courses. Coordinated course offerings and teaching schedules.

Sierra College, Department of Deaf Studies, Rocklin, California
Adjunct Instructor, (2009 — present, part-time)
Taught Deaf Studies and American Sign Language courses.

Lifeprint Institute (www.Lifeprint.com)
American Sign Language Distance Education Training
Director / Webmaster / Curriculum Developer / Lexicographer (1989 — present, part-time)
Designed, created, and maintained an online ASL resource center for interpreters, students, and parents of deaf children.

Lamar University, Department of Communication Disorders and Deaf Education
Adjunct Instructor / Graduate Assistant (2000 — 2003, part-time)
Taught Deaf Studies and American Sign Language courses as a graduate assistant for the academic department and as an adjunct for Department of Continuing Education.

IKON Office Solutions, Layton UT
Information Technology Instructor, (1998—2000)
Taught computer repair and networking courses as a Microsoft Certified Trainer.

Easter Seals Society
Employment Specialist, (1991—1993)
Provided employment support services for individuals with disabilities.

Weber State University
Department of Communication
Adjunct Instructor (1988 — 1998)
Taught Deaf Studies and American Sign Language courses.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE (Limited duration projects and freelance work)

Marygrove College, Michigan
Microsoft Certified Trainer/ Information Technology Instructor (1999 — 2000, part-time)
Taught computer repair and networking courses.

Stevens Henager College
Substitute Instructor / Information Technology Instructor (1999 — 1999, part-time)
Taught an "HTML" (web design) course.

Davis county School District, Utah
Director, Interpreter Training Program (1995—1997, part-time)
Set up and directed an in-service accelerated Interpreter Training Program.

Weber County School District, Utah
Community Education Instructor, American Sign Language, (1992—1997, part-time)
Taught Deaf Studies and American Sign Language courses.

Davis County School District, Utah
Community Education Instructor, American Sign Language (1992—1997, part-time)
Taught Deaf Studies and American Sign Language courses.

Church Education System, Ogden UT
Instructor, (1991-1992, part-time)
Taught seminary courses to Deaf youth.

RESEARCH AND CREATIVE ACTIVITY:

Vicars, W. (2007), Sign Language Field Manual: Fingerseek. Lulu Press [ISBN 0-9749543-1-4]

Vicars, W. (2007), ABC Slider. Lifeprint Press: http://asl.gs

Vicars, W. (2006), ASL Number Practice Tool. Lifeprint Press http://www.asl.bz

Vicars, W. (2005), Fingerspelling Practice Tool. Lifeprint Press http://www.asl.ms

Vicars, W. (2003-2007), ASLpah! Ezine and Forum. Lifeprint Press <http://aslpah.com> [Monthly circulation: 10,000 opt-in subscribers.]

Vicars, W. (1998), Sign Me Up! Lifeprint Press [Print run: 3,000 copies, sold out] [ISBN: 0-9749543-0-6) 212 pages. Out of print.]

Vicars, W. (1997-2012), ASL University, Lifeprint http://www.Lifeprint.com

Online American Sign Language lesson materials and coursework hosted at www.Lifeprint.com

Average number of unique visitors per month: 200,894

Average Number of Visits: 353278

Number of files: 38,368 files

Number of Hyperlinks: 257,490

Consistently Listed among the top 10 results for numerous Google search terms including: "ASL," "American Sign Language," and "Sign Language."

PUBLICATIONS IN WHICH WILLIAM G. VICARS' IMAGES OR ARTWORK APPEAR (partial list)

* Language files: materials for an introduction to language and linguistics, 11^th Edition, Christin Wilson, co-editor, Ohio State University Press. (2010)

* SMART Interactive Whiteboard and Interactive Table Technologies ASL Project, Tim West, Waterford Research Institute, (2010)

* Language files: materials for an introduction to language and linguistics, 10^th Edition, Anouschka Bergmann, Kathleen Currie Hall, Sharon Miriam Ross, co-editors, Ohio State University Press. (2007)

* ASL Curriculum for 2^nd and 3^rd Graders, Online Publication, Unitarian Universalist Association, Massachusetts. (2007)

* What learning a second language might teaching us about auditory training. Barcroft, J. Sommers, M.S. & Tye-Murray, Seminars in Hearing, 28, 151-161 (2007)

* Introduction to Psychology, www.ablongman.com/irc, & www.mypsychlab.com Lilienfeld, Lynn, Namy, and Woolf.. Allyn & Bacon (2007)

* Abilities: The style magazine for Canadians with disabilities. Jaclyn Law, Managing Editor. (2006)

* ASL Makes a Splash, Cadence Magazine, Volume 34, Lamar University, (2006)

* History of ASL, Carol Breezes (2006)

* Pointing and spatial layout in adult home sign systems in Nicaragua. Coppola, M., PhD Proceedings of the Boston University Conference on Language Development, 29, 144-155. Boston: Cascadilla Press. (2005)

* Flash Card Program – Manual Alphabet, William C. Camp, Programmer, Texas Instruments, Missouri(2006)

* Linguistic Anthropology: A One day Introduction to Sign Language and Deaf Culture. http://linganth.blogspot.com/2006/12/lesson-suggestions-for-introduction-to.html & http://disstud.blogspot.com/2006/11/introduction-to-sign-languages-and.html (2006)

* Jamaican Introductory Sign Language and Training Handbook. Gregory Bryan, Georgia Caribbean American Heritage Coalition, Jamaica (2006)

* Barbara L. Hocking, M.A. (2010). Workshop: Signs of Nature, "The 2010 Conference of the American Horticultural Therapy Association" Glencoe, Illinois

* Tessa Smith, (2010). Disability Employment Awareness Month (web page), Diversity Events Committee, Internal Communications & Diversity, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport

* Mary Sterritt, (2010). Daylight Project: Front staff training program, Powerpoint presentation, Mental Health Center of Denver

* P. Powell Dobbins PhD, (2008). Artist Installations with Performances, The Opening of the Art Exhibit, New Mexico

* Kris Mandley, (2007). Lexical Borrowing: Loan Signs and Fingerspelling (Interpreting Workshop), Schaumburg School District 54, Illinois

* Beth Orton Carlson, PhD, ASLTA. (2007). Linguistics of ASL, presentation, St. Petersburg College, Florida

* Jolayne Tweedie. (2007). Approaches to Teaching Deaf Children in Malaysia, Johor Area Rehabilitation Organization, Malyasia

* Eddy F. Laird PhD. (2007). ASL Semantics: Types of Meaning, (McDaniel University), at ASL Fest - Gallaudet University’s Center for ASL Literacy

* P. Powell Dobbins, PhD. (2007). Artist Installations with Performances, Historical Conference, Texas

* National Science Foundation Program. (2007). Web-based Teaching of Sign Language, Historically Black College or Universities Undergraduate Summer Research Program

* Aurora BayCare Medical Center. (2006). Basic ASL Signs for Health Care Professionals, Wisconsin

GRANTS AND AWARDS

2010 Sabbatical Leave Award, ASL Fluency and Deaf Literacy Project.
2009: Research and Creative Activities Award: "Deaflympics" Taipei, Taiwan: Study of lexical gaps in ASL

2008: Professional Development Grant: "Train the ASL Trainer" Guyana, South America: Train Deaf Education Instructors

2008: ELIXR Grant: Universal Design, (http://pachyderm.cdl.edu/elixr-stories/udl-sign-language/) Model best practices

2006: Pedagogy Enhancement Award, Development of an Online American Sign Language Number Practice Tool

2006: Teaching Using Technology Award (2^nd year) Development of basic ASL letter learning tool

2005: Teaching Using Technology Award: Development of an Online American Sign Language Fingerspelling Practice Tool

2004: International/Global Education Faculty Development Grant: Linguistics of ASL Online Course for ASL teachers and Interpreters

PRESENTATIONS

* ASL Wahoo! Engaging Students via Technology, Cal Ed Conference, Sacramento (2010)

* Teaching ASL Online, Sierra College, California (2010)

* Train the ASL Trainer, Clear Creek Independent School District, Texas (2010)

* ASL Pragmatics, Houston Community College, Texas (2010)

* ASL Safari Train the Sign Language Trainer Series, Guyana, South America (2008)

* Universal Design: ELIXR, Directors of Educational Technology - California Higher Education Conference (2008)

* Train the ASL Trainer: Methodology of Distance Education, California State University, Sacramento (2008)

* Deaf Awareness Week: American Sign Language, California Department of Education (2007)

* Interpreter Training Series, Carson City School District, Nevada (2007)

* ASL Safari: Immersion Camp for Certifying Interpreters, Grover Hot Springs, Sierra Nevada Mountains, California (2007)

* How to Put your PowerPoints on a Diet, California State University, Sacramento (2007)

* ASL Training Series for Employees who Work and Interact with the California Schools for the Deaf, California Department of Education (2007)

* Interpreter Training Series, Carson City School District, Nevada (2006)

* Extreme Roll Shift: An American Sign Language mini-workshop on Dramatic Characterization Techniques, California State University, Sacramento (2006)

* American Sign Language and Computer Assisted Language Learning, College of Continuing Education, China Programs & Jinan, China Delegation California State University, Sacramento (2006)

* ASL Safari: Immersion Camp for Certifying Interpreters, Grover Hot Springs, Sierra Nevada Mountains, California (2006)

* Train the ASL Trainer, North West ASLTA, Washington (2005)

* The Linguistics of American Sign Language, World Language Day Conference, California State University, Sacramento (2004)

* ASL Pragmatics, College of Continuing Education, California State University, Sacramento (2003)

* Training Series: ASL for Employees with Work and Interact with Deaf Employees, Morton International, Utah (1993)

* Disability Awareness and ADA, Department of Management Services, Ogden City, Utah (1993)

* Interacting with Deaf Youth, Office of Youth Ministry, Utah (1993)

* Training Series: ASL for Employees with Work and Interact with Deaf Employees, United States Department of Agriculture, Utah (1993)

* Deaf Studies Training Series, Utah Interpreter Services, Utah Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (1992)

* American Sign Language Training Series: Communicating with Deaf Patients, McKay Dee Hospital Center, Utah (1992)

* Diversity Awareness, Multiple Sclerosis Society (1992)

* Diversity Awareness, Federal Aviation Administration, Utah (1992)

* Training Series: ASL for Employees who Work and Interact with Deaf Employees, Internal Revenue Service, Department of Treasure, Utah (1991)

CONTINUED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

* Using Technology to Enhance Education Services for Students who are Deaf or HoH Midwest Center for Postsecondary Outreach, St. Paul Technical College, Minnesota (2002)

* Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer Training Program: MCSE, A+, N+, and MCP+I, IKON Office Solutions / Microsoft Corporation (1998)

* Introduction to Network and Internet Lab Management, Utah LINK Training for Distance Education, University of Utah (1998)

* EDNET Copyright, Utah Education Network, Utah State Office of Education (1998)

* ASL Numbers and Fingerspelling, Utah Interpreter Services, Salt Lake Community College (1998)

* ASL Register and Nonmanual Markers, Utah Interpreter Services, Salt Lake Community College (1998)

* Methods of Teaching ASL, Salt Lake Community College, Utah (1998)

* Training Series: Partners in Policy Making, Utah Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities (1997)

* Introduction to the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness, Legal Center for People with Disabilities (1996)

* Semantics of ASL, Utah Community Center for the Deaf, Utah State Division of Services for the Adult Deaf and Hard of Hearing (1995)

* Course Series: Human Services, Pacific Western University (1993—1994)

* Advanced Employment Specialist and Vocational Training, Technical Assistance and Continuing Education, Univ. of Northern Colorado (1992—1993)

* American Judicial System/Deaf Community Liaison Training program, California State University, Northridge (1993)

* Writing the Grant Proposal, The Grantsmanship Center, Utah (1993)

* Assistive Technology for Vocational Training Programs, Easter Seals Society of Utah, Salt Lake Community College (1993)

* Trends in Vocational Training, Southern Utah University (1993)

* The Deaf Mentor Model Project, The Ski Hi Institute, Utah State University (1993)

* Legal Interpreting Workshop, Utah Interpreter Services, tah Community Center for the Deaf (1992)

* Organizational Behavior, Army Institute for Professional Development, Utah (1989—1990)

* Training Series: Investment in Excellence, The Pacific Institute, Washington & Department of Defense, Utah (1989)

SERVICE

National and International

2008-present Guyana, South America: Deaf in Guyana (DIG) Committee advisor / consultant.

2010-2010 Federal Bureau of Investigation, Liad Akronowitz, ASL Training Project, consultant

2006 Israel Center for the Deaf, Israel, Curriculum Development and Instruction for Deaf Israelis, consultant

2006 Georgia Caribbean American Heritage Coalition, Jamaica, "Jamaican Introductory Sign Language and Training programme," consultant

State & Local

2010 Folsom/Cordova Unified School District Special Needs Resource Development Program / David Schetter's Deaf & Hard of Hearing Resource Group, member

2010 Deaf Coalition: "Anti AB2072" Participated in efforts to defeat this legislation. Visited legislator's offices, attended the senate committee hearing at State Capitol, engaged in video phone campaign, participated in opposition rallies, etc.

2009 "California Department of Education Deaf Awareness Week," State Office of Education, lobby display: Deaf Studies, guest representative

2006-2006 California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, California Subject Examination for Teachers, CSET:ASL, Scoring Level and Evaluations Development Subcommittee, member

2005-2005 California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, California Subject Examination for Teachers, CSET:ASL, Bias Subcommittee, member

University

2007 CSUS University-wide "Preview Day," faculty representative

2007 Instructional Materials Accessibility Subcommittee, member

2006-2007 ADA Technology Consultant, Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action

College

2008-present Affirmative Action Representative (F 08-Sp 11)

2008-present Dean’s Advisory Council, alternate (F 08 - Sp 11)

2007 Search Committee, College Director of Information Technology, member

2007 Outside reader/advisor for CSUS College of Education masters degree candidate Chandra Ashton,

2006-2007 Dean’s Advisory Council, member

2006-2008 Technology Advisory Committee, alternate (F 08-Sp 10)

2006-2008 Technology Advisory Committee, chair

2004-2005 Technology Advisory Committee, co-chair

2004-2010 Established and directed Online ASL Program, College of Continuing Education

2004-2010 Established and directed Summer ASL Immersion Program: College of Continuing Education

Department

2007 Deaf Studies Search Committee, chair

2005 Deaf Studies Search Committee, member

2005 Field Trip: Set up and directed student ASL immersion (Knottsberry Farm)

2004 Field Trip: Set up and directed student ASL immersion (Marine World)

2004-2005 ASL Certificate Program Advisory Committee

2003-2005 Established and advised the student group: "The Sign Language Association"

2004-Present Student Advising

2003 Field Trip: Set up and directed student ASL immersion (Disneyland)

Community

2010 Car Donation Project, facilitated the donation of a car to a low income Deaf family

2010 Hacienda La Puente Adult School, California, Curriculum Web Development and Consultation

2010 Funeral of local Deaf Community member, conducted religious service

2007 SIGNews, Kelly Sargent, staff writer, Communication Service for the Deaf, Inc (CSD), Interviewee

2007 Dr. Jean Andrews, Lamar University, Field Research Collaboration

2007 Two Little Hands Productions, PBS, Signing Times, American Sign Language panel expert

2006 New York City ASL Meet Up Group, curriculum consultant

2006 LK Moss Primary School, Georgia, nonverbal hearing children, advisor

2006 Sacramento County Office of Education, Prevention and Student Services, ASL and Deaf related services, consultant

2006 Florida State University Emergency Response Project, Designed prototype signage and descriptive images

2006 Office of Assemblyman John J. Benoit, Assembly Bill 49; consultation regarding interpreting

2006 Austin Community College ASL and Interpreting Program, consultation regarding Linguistic Query: Iconic versus Onomatopoeia

2005 Sacramento County Department of Health and Human Services employee ASL Skills Evaluation

2004 Lamar University, Dept of Communication Disorders and Deaf Education, Leadership Training in Deaf Education, Advisory Committee, member

2004 NuTV – Channel 95, Utah, "Disability Awareness and Sensitivity Issues" advisor

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