Celebrating 25 years of American Sign Language

We have a full day of activities including CEU earning workshops, alumni panel, industry poster sessions, and an evening social. Featured presenters include Peter Cook, Crom Saunders, Dr. Emily Shaw, Susan Sotnick ’05, Patti Shore-Kaden, Keith Wann, and many more.9-12 p.m. Morning Industry WorkshopsTwo CEU earning workshops available - attendees choose one12-1:30 p.m. Lunch and Poster SessionsLunch with brief presentations on industry topics 1:30-4:30 p.m. Afternoon Industry Workshops One CEU earning workshop and one alumni panel available - attendees choose one7-10 p.m. Evening SoireeFeaturing a keynote speaker, ASL improv, entertainment, food, beer, wine, and socializing with alumni, industry professionals, and friends.
RID CEU's provided by ICRID an approved sponsor of RID.
Morning Workshop Details:

“All The World’s A Stage!” How Acting Techniques Can Improve Your Dynamic Equivalence In ANY Interpreting Setting. Presenters: Susan Sotnick '05 and Patti Shore Kaden
In this highly interactive and performance based workshop, students will study the basic techniques of acting using the Stanislavski System which was developed in the first half of the 20th century by Russian theatre practitioner Konstantin Stanislavski. This system uses “the art of representation,” conscious thought and internal motives to analyze a character for performance. Interpreters will use analysis of character, intent and affect in order to understand a speaker on a level which produces optimal dynamic equivalence in their interpreting work. Participants will learn tools that can be used not only in theatrical interpreting settings, but in any setting that interpreters work. Participants will engage in character analysis, characterization activities and interpreting practice in a safe, fun and uninhibited environment. There will be plenty of hands on and “hands up” practice for all who attend!

"Stayin' Alive: Don't Let The Story Die In Your Hands"  Presenter: Keith Wann
As an interpreter we often encounter dynamic presenters who use stories to illustrate their points or lessons and we tend to interpret in a linear manner instead of personifying the actions of the characters in the stories. Why are we afraid to become the story?  In this workshop the participants will start to recognize  storytelling style used by presenters/teachers/pastors. In addition, there will be discussions including our finding and understanding the messages underneath the narratives. We also will practice some story samplings to become comfortable while be able to focus on interpreting the narratives.

Afternoon Workshop Details:

"Back In Time: The History And Etymology Of ASL" Presenter: Dr. Emily Shaw
This workshop brings focus to the history of ASL. After the American School for the Deaf opened in 1817, generations of Deaf people regularly interacted, triggering the rapid development of ASL. So much has changed for Deaf America that it is hard to imagine signs could still be linked to 17th century Europe. This workshop will feature an overview of many complex evolutions that transpired after initial contact between Laurent Clerc and the first generations of students in the U.S. It will include detailed information about distinct patterns of change in ASL as well as hands-on practice analyzing the forms and meanings of specific signs. Opportunity for discussion about how to apply the etymology of ASL to contemporary debates about language will be included. The historical analysis of ASL provides valuable insight into how signing people create and change vocabulary in response to shifting cultural contexts. It also reveals tangible evidence of Clerc’s legacy in the forms and meanings of contemporary American signs. Understanding ASL’s history reinforces its relevance to contemporary Deaf America and can ultimately shape how we treat and value the language that early leaders fought so hard to preserve.

All registration fees and donations are non-refundable and non-transferable. Registration fees help underwrite the cost of this event produced by the American Sign Language Department.  Donations will specifically support the ASL Department Gift Fund.