Bruce M. Bucci serves as an Associate Professor in the World Languages Department at Framingham State University, specializing in American Sign Language (ASL). His career is dedicated to building respectful alliances between Deaf and hearing communities through advocacy for language rights, cultural understanding, and accessibility. His research spans Deaf Studies, ASL linguistics, social justice frameworks, and cross-cultural communication strategies. Bucci emphasizes practical applications including resource development for hearing parents of Deaf children and educational initiatives promoting ASL awareness among undergraduate students. Current work focuses on collaborative student projects enhancing social justice for Deaf communities through accessible educational materials. No scientific awards, grant details, or laboratory affiliations were referenced in the source material.
Dr. Md Shahinur Alam is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science & Information Technology at Hood College, where he teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses. Previously, he served as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the VL2 Center at Gallaudet University and in the Optical Information Lab at Chungbuk National University in South Korea. Dr. Alam's educational background includes: Ph.D. in Information & Communication Engineering from Chungbuk National University, South Korea B.Sc. in Computer Science & Engineering from Jashore University of Science & Technology, Bangladesh His research focuses on innovative applications at the intersection of human-computer interaction, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality. Dr. Alam has pioneered several groundbreaking technologies including air-writing systems that replace traditional pen-and-paper input, a VR-based ASL learning platform called ASL Champ!, and image super-resolution techniques that advance optical microscopy eightfold beyond conventional physical limits. His work bridges theoretical advancements with practical applications in education, accessibility, and scientific visualization. Dr. Alam has received multiple prestigious awards for his research contributions: Best Demo Award at XR ACCESS 2024 Best Paper Award at COOC 2021 Best Paper Award at CRC 2019 As an active member of the academic community, Dr. Alam has served as a reviewer for over 30 academic journals, evaluating more than 150 research papers. He leads the NSF-funded Signing Avatars & Immersive Learning (SAIL 2.0) project, which develops innovative VR technology for American Sign Language education. His research has resulted in over 40 peer-reviewed publications and has accumulated more than 150 citations. Dr. Alam's work spans multiple interdisciplinary research areas, with particular emphasis on developing accessible technologies. His ASL Champ! project combines 3D avatar design, motion capture, and AI model development to create an immersive learning environment. His air-writing technology offers touchless input methods applicable in augmented reality, virtual reality, and healthcare settings. The research team he leads continues to push boundaries in gesture recognition, virtual reality interfaces, and image enhancement technologies.
Cynthia Sanders serves as Associate Professor in the Department of ASL and Interpreting Education at Rochester Institute of Technology's National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID). She teaches advanced ASL courses including American Sign Language IV, VII, Intermediate ASL II, and Linguistics of ASL, requiring students to engage with Deaf communities and achieve specified ACTFL proficiency levels. Her research focuses on ASL linguistics (particularly pragmatics and speech act theory), innovative curriculum development for workplace settings, and Deaf cultural studies . Recent work examines indirect message interpretation in ASL, e-curriculum design, and historical analysis of residential schools' cultural impacts. Teaching emphasizes cultural protocols alongside linguistic competence, with courses requiring community engagement and advanced narrative construction. Scholarly output from 2010-2013 shows consistent focus on practical ASL applications, with the ASL at Work curriculum system representing significant pedagogical contribution. Publications demonstrate methodological diversity spanning theoretical linguistics, educational technology, and sociocultural analysis, particularly addressing workplace communication needs and historical assimilation contexts. Recognition includes: Seed Funding Award from Provost's Sponsored Research Services (2013) for "OH-I-SEE" project Dr. Sanders maintains active research-teaching integration through NTID's Rosica Hall Research Festival and collaborations with Dawn Sign Press. Her work addresses critical gaps in professional ASL development while contributing to broader understanding of Deaf cultural preservation and workplace integration challenges.
Cheryl Barden serves as a Fixed-term Lecturer in the Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders at Central Michigan University, teaching American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf culture courses for 13 years with 27 years of continuous engagement in the Deaf community. Education: MA, Educational Technology, Central Michigan University, 2018 BS, Psychology, Central Michigan University, 2015 Deaf Blind Intervener Training Program, Weber State University, 1995 Professional Expertise: Extensive interpretation experience across medical, legal, business, religious, community, and educational settings including specialized Deaf-blind intervener services. She has taught community and professional sign language classes for 23 of the last 25 years using the 'Signing Naturally' curriculum. Instructional Focus: Courses span ASL levels I-V, Introduction to the Deaf Community, Sociocultural History of the American Deaf Community, and international study programs in France and Jamaica examining Deaf culture and ASL applications in elementary education.
Kendra Miller is a Fixed-Term Faculty Lecturer in the Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders. Her primary responsibilities include teaching American Sign Language courses (ASL 101, ASL 201, ASL 595), coordinating community placements for students within the Deaf community, and leading the Jamaica Study Abroad Service-Learning program. She holds a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) credential with extensive clinical experience serving Deaf and Hard of Hearing populations. Education: MSW, Social Work - Michigan State University (2000) BS, Therapeutic Recreation - Central Michigan University (1995) Professional Focus: Kendra specializes in bridging clinical social work with Deaf community engagement. Her work includes: Psychosocial rehabilitation for Deaf individuals with mental health needs Parent education in sign language and accessibility resources Mentoring programs for Deaf children International service-learning curriculum development Fields of Interest: American Sign Language pedagogy Community-based interventions for the Deaf Mental health accessibility Therapeutic recreation Clinical social work methodologies
Dr. Susan Naeve-Velguth is Professor of Audiology and American Sign Language at Central Michigan University, where she serves as Chairperson of the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders and Director of Community Engagement for the College of Health Professions. She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology (CCC-A) and maintains active membership in the American Academy of Audiology and American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association. Education: PhD in Communication Disorders, University of Minnesota (1995) MA in Audiology, University of Minnesota (1989) BS in Speech and Hearing Science, University of Minnesota (1986) Research Focus: Her work spans three interconnected domains: FM/DM assistive hearing technologies, interprofessional education models for healthcare training, and patient counseling efficacy in audiological practice. This research addresses critical gaps in clinical education methodologies and hearing rehabilitation technology optimization. Publication Analysis: Her 30-year publication record demonstrates progression from foundational sign language linguistics (early 1990s) to contemporary hearing technology innovation (2023). Recent works emphasize evidence-based clinical education techniques and FM system performance, while earlier contributions established frameworks for pediatric assessment and family counseling in audiology. Teaching: She instructs graduate-level Audiologic Rehabilitation (CSD 431) and undergraduate American Sign Language (ASL 101H), integrating clinical simulation and community engagement practices.
Zanthia Y. Smith serves as Associate Professor, Interim Chair, and Program Director for the BA-ASL program within the Department of Deaf Studies and Deaf Education at Lamar University. With 29 years of continuous faculty service, she teaches across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels while leading departmental initiatives. Her academic foundation is entirely rooted at Lamar University: Ed.D. in Deaf Studies and Deaf Education (1999) M.S. in Deaf Education (1985) B.S. in Communication Disorders (1983) Professor Smith's work centers on Deaf Education and American Sign Language with emphasis on curriculum development for ASL programs. Her research integrates Deaf cultural studies , language acquisition methodologies , and accessible pedagogy . The BA-ASL program under her direction prepares students for careers requiring advanced ASL proficiency and cultural competence. Prior to academia, her 8 years of K-12 teaching experience provides critical practical grounding for her scholarly work.
Garrett Bose serves as a Lecturer in the Department of Dual Language and English Learner Education at San Diego State University, specializing in American Sign Language instruction. He actively contributes to the ASL education community through board membership with the San Diego ASL Teachers Association and national workshop presentations. His educational background includes: Master of Arts in Sign Language Education from Gallaudet University (2018) Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media (Digital Arts) from Gallaudet University (2017) Professor Bose's scholarly focus centers on innovative ASL pedagogy, particularly zero-textbook-cost course development and ASL grammar instruction. His work bridges theoretical linguistics with practical classroom applications, emphasizing accessible educational materials that prevent language deprivation in deaf learners. The 2021 presentations on ASL grammar structures and textbook affordability represent his commitment to making ASL education financially and cognitively accessible. His undergraduate teaching portfolio (DLE 101-201) prioritizes student-centered learning experiences, complemented by educational YouTube content addressing societal issues from homelessness to environmental conservation. Professional service includes significant contributions to the San Diego ASL Teachers Association and national conferences focused on advancing ASL education standards.
Adam Frost is a Lecturer in the Department of Dual Language and English Learner Education at San Diego State University (SDSU), with additional teaching roles at UC San Diego and Mesa Community College. He holds an M.A. in Linguistics from Gallaudet University and a B.A. in Deaf Studies from California State University Northridge. Research Focus: Frost specializes in American Sign Language (ASL) linguistics, SignWriting, ASL literature, and bilingual education. His work includes developing written ASL resources and advocating for ASL teacher standards. Key areas include: ASL-English bilingualism in educational contexts International SignWriting workshops and corpus development Cross-cultural ASL literacy initiatives Publications: His 13 publications (2008–2021) emphasize SignWriting pedagogy, ASL technology, and bilingualism, with presentations across 5+ countries. Trends include collaborative research, digital tools for sign languages, and community-focused workshops. Service: As a board member of the San Diego ASL Teachers Association (SD-ASLTA), he supports local ASL educators and promotes teaching standards.
Svenna Pedersen serves as a Lecturer in the Department of Dual Language and English Learner Education at San Diego State University (SDSU), where she teaches American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Culture courses. She concurrently instructs at Gallaudet University, Mesa Community College, Grossmont College, and Southwestern College, demonstrating extensive commitment to ASL education across multiple academic institutions. Her educational background includes: MA in Deaf Studies (emphasis: ASL Teaching), Gallaudet University, 2007 BA in Communication Studies, Gallaudet University, 2005 Online DEFT Teaching Credential, Southwestern College, 2018 ASL Proficiency Interview Score 4+, 2016 California Subject Examination for Teachers (ASL), 2014 Professor Pedersen's research bridges ASL linguistics, cognitive neuroscience, and Deaf cultural studies. Her investigations into limb apraxia, sign span metrics, and neurological impacts on sign language production reveal the complex interplay between motor control and linguistic processing in visual languages. This work establishes critical baselines for understanding Deaf cognition and language disorders. Her publication record shows consistent conference presentations at major neuroscience and linguistics venues over the past decade, with pronounced focus on ASL production errors and neurological correlates. Collaborations with the Salk Institute highlight her integration of laboratory neuroscience with real-world Deaf community applications. Her professional recognitions include: Online DEFT Teaching Credential (Southwestern College, 2018) ASL Proficiency Interview Score 4+ (2016) California Subject Examination for Teachers (ASL, 2014) As an educator, Professor Pedersen oversees SDSU's ASL proficiency assessment program and teaches ASL from beginner to advanced levels. Her pedagogical approach integrates research findings with cultural immersion, drawing from 15+ years of experience teaching Deaf children and families. She emphasizes identity development alongside language acquisition, reflecting her commitment to holistic Deaf education. Though not leading a formal research laboratory, Professor Pedersen actively shapes the field through professional service on the San Diego ASLTA board and contributions to educational resources like Visual Language and Visual Learning's storybook apps. Her work consistently centers Deaf community perspectives in academic settings.
Diane Lillo-Martin serves as a Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor in the Department of Linguistics at the University of Connecticut and holds a concurrent position as Senior Scientist at Haskins Laboratories. She maintains active affiliations with the Connecticut Institute for Brain and Cognitive Sciences as an affiliated faculty member and was previously a fellow at the UConn Humanities Institute. Her research program fundamentally investigates the human language faculty through dual pathways: structural analysis and acquisition studies of American Sign Language (ASL), combined with cross-linguistic examinations of language acquisition mechanisms. This work establishes critical connections between signed and spoken language systems while advancing theoretical frameworks in linguistic cognition. Scientific Awards: No specific awards mentioned in provided text. Advising and Grants: The source material contains no details regarding student mentorship, research grants, or sponsored projects. Laboratory Affiliation: Dr. Lillo-Martin directs the Sign Linguistics and Language Acquisition laboratory, which conducts empirical research on sign language structure, developmental acquisition patterns, and cognitive foundations of linguistic competence.
Yan Ma is a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Kean University, specializing in Human-Computer Interaction and Artificial Intelligence. His research develops innovative AI-powered interaction techniques with strong emphasis on accessibility and user performance enhancement. Dr. Ma's educational background includes: Ph.D. in Computer Science, Stony Brook University (Advised by Prof. Xiaojun Bi) B.S. in Computer Science, Binghamton University B.S. in Mathematics, Renmin University of China His research focuses on transforming human-computer interaction through: LLM-Powered Interaction: Developing novel text entry methods for smartphones and VR environments Accessibility Engineering: Creating inclusive technologies like soft Braille keyboards and ASL recognition systems Performance Modeling: Using GANs and deep learning to understand and optimize user input behavior VR/XR Innovation: Designing next-generation interaction techniques for immersive environments Professor Ma's recent publications (2021-2025) reveal a clear trajectory toward LLM integration in interaction design, with four major publications already in 2025 across CHI, UIST, and IEEE VR venues. His work consistently bridges theoretical modeling and practical applications, particularly in accessibility domains. Key recognition includes: Best Paper Honorable Mention Award at ACM CHI 2023 As an active educator, Professor Ma teaches core computer science courses while building his research program. His service as a reviewer for top conferences (CHI, UIST, IEEE VR) and journals demonstrates his standing in the HCI research community. Students in his group gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge AI/VR technologies and opportunities to publish at premier venues. Though no formal lab name is established, his research group at Kean University maintains strong connections with Stony Brook's HCI community, facilitating collaborative projects in input modeling and accessibility research.
Rachel E. Violanti serves as a Faculty Fellow in Modern Languages within Niagara University's College of Arts and Sciences, teaching all levels of American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Studies. She is an active member of the Buffalo Deaf Community and provides interpretation services at NorthPoint Church in Depew, NY, reflecting her commitment to accessibility and community engagement. Education: B.A. in Spanish and Liberal Arts (American Sign Language/Deaf Studies and Psychology) with French minor, Niagara University (2017) MBA in Strategic Management, Niagara University Nationally Certified ASL/English Interpreter (N.I.C.) Research and Teaching Focus: Her work centers on ASL pedagogy, Deaf Studies, and cross-disciplinary applications of psychology in language education. Motivated by her philosophy that 'all people should be provided access to whatever they want,' she bridges academic instruction with practical community service. Her background in liberal arts and business informs an interdisciplinary approach to communication equity and accessibility. Awards and Recognition: No scientific awards or fellowships are documented in the source material, though her National Interpreter Certification represents a key professional credential. Community Integration: Beyond campus, she actively participates in the Buffalo Deaf Community and serves as one of three church interpreters, demonstrating how her academic role extends into real-world accessibility advocacy through sustained community partnerships and service-oriented language practice.
Angela Ellman serves as an Assistant Professor of Sign Language Interpreting at Augustana University within the Sharon Lust School of Education. She is an active member of the ASL Lab and teaches ASL I through V, Classifiers, and Deaf Culture courses, demonstrating deep commitment to advancing student fluency from foundational skills to conversational proficiency. Her academic credentials include: Master of Arts in Sign Language Education from Gallaudet University Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Colorado Technical University (2005) Professor Ellman's professional expertise centers on American Sign Language pedagogy and Deaf cultural studies, with specialized focus on sign language interpreting methodologies. She maintains active certification through the American Sign Language Teachers Association (ASLTA) and holds a Sign Language Proficiency Interview (SLPI) score of 4+, reflecting advanced linguistic competency. Her work bridges academic instruction with practical community engagement through conference coordination. She founded Bella & Bash Consulting, providing specialized ASL instruction and conference planning services. Since 2003, she has coordinated major annual events for the National Council of Independent Living and National Association of the Deaf, demonstrating sustained leadership in Deaf community initiatives beyond the classroom.
