ASL Alumni
Olivia DiLorio
Why did you study ASL at WCU?
I have been learning signs from websites, books, and small local classes since I was 13. I always knew American Sign Language was a passion of mine, but when I started at WCU, I still hadn't had the chance to dive deep enough to learn the grammar structures and unique qualities that make ASL special. As I learned more about Deaf culture and history, the power that ASL holds, and the ways that I can be a Deaf ally and advocate, I knew ASL had to be a part of my journey beyond WCU.
What have you done since graduating from WCU?
When I was coming up on graduation, I was honored to be the first recipient of the Dr. Kat Ellis Memorial Scholarship to assist in post-graduate efforts to continue to be a Deaf ally and advocate. Since then, I have been working at People's Light Theatre as the Front of House and Accessibility Manager where I work to further theatre accessibility for all, with a specific focus on the Deaf/Hard of Hearing community. In this position I have had the opportunity to work with our Deaf/HoH patrons, ASL interpreters, and Smart Caption Glasses to make art accessible to all.
Grace Heinsey, Major in Psychology with a minor in Deaf Studies, 2019
Why did you study ASL at WCU?
I studied ASL at WCU because I saw ASL on a TV show and wanted to learn more about the language. I thought I would only take enough ASL courses to satisfy my language requirement, but after my first ASL class, I was hooked. Studying ASL also introduced me to the concept that language equals culture. I enjoyed studying Deaf Culture and it helped me gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of ASL.
What have you done since graduating from WCU?
After graduation, I went on to earn my ASL Interpreting certification. Now, I am an Educational Interpreter, working for an intermediate unit that serves the needs of Deaf and hard of hearing students in our community. I interpret daily for one student, but I also travel to different schools in the area as needs for interpreters arise. I am so grateful for the opportunity to use ASL every day, thanks to the foundation given to me by WCU and my ASL professors!