Diane Lillo-Martin, PhD
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I am a faculty member in Linguistics and I conduct research on the structure and acquisition of ASL. I teach two courses in the ASL program. Students who are interested in research concerning ASL and deaf children often serve as research assistants in the Sign Linguistics and Language Acquisition Lab, which I direct.
Visit Diane Lillo-Martin's Webpage Email: diane.lillomartin@uconn.edu She/her/hers
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Linda Pelletier, PhD
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I serve as faculty and coordinator of the ASL Studies program. I have been nationally certified as a sign language interpreter from both the Registry of Interpreters of the Deaf and the National Association for the Deaf for more than 25 years. I am a CODA, daughter of Deaf parents and a heritage signer of American Sign Language. I also serve as the advisor for the ASL Studies program including the honors students and those who wish to pursue a minor in interpreting ASL and English or Deaf studies. The ASL Studies major was introduced in 2020, the first and only in the State, and offers two concentrations, Deaf studies or Interpreting ASL and English. If you have questions or are interested in learning more about the program, please contact me via email.
Email: linda.pelletier@uconn.edu She/her/hers
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Mike Schlang
| Hello! My name is Mike Schlang and I grew up in a Deaf family as my parents and my sister are all Deaf. I am a full-time ASL faculty member here at UConn. I enjoy interactions with ASL students in all levels as we navigate through different subjects. When I am not teaching ASL, I enjoy spending time with my beautiful wife and two boys. There are three things in my life I am quite passionate about, and the top of my list will always be family. The second thing on my list is sports and I support all Boston teams with a real passion. I also enjoy playing sports and I have been trying to get better at golf. Lastly, food is third on my list as I love to cook especially grilling and smoking different kinds of meat in my smoker. I even have a BBQ notebook that I use to help improve my BBQ skills. Glad I was able to share all the things that I love in my life!
Email: michael.schlang@uconn.edu He/him/his |
Colleen Shaw
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With over three decades of teaching experience, I have worked in various educational settings, including schools for the deaf, public schools, colleges, and universities. I possess comprehensive expertise in delivering high-quality instruction to students with diverse learning needs. As an educator, I am a proud member of the ASL studies program. I specialize in teaching American Sign Language courses. My passion for teaching ASL is immense, and it inspires me to witness significant growth in my students' sign language skills. I find it beneficial to impart knowledge and skills while learning from my students. During my leisure time, I love to travel, learn new things, and expand my knowledge through professional development and self-study. Specifically, I have had the privilege of mentoring spiritual care practitioners and ASL/Deaf culture educators while honing my skills in these areas. My creativity and energy are traits that I hold in high regard, and I strive to integrate these qualities into all aspects of my life.
Email: colleen.shaw@uconn.edu She/her/hers |
Kara Gournaris, EdD
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My name is Kara Gournaris and I am a full time American Sign Language instructor at University of Connecticut. I graduated from Gallaudet University with a BA in Psychology and from Prescott College with a MA in Experiential Education. My terminal degree with Ed, D in Curriculum and Instruction from Portland State University. I have been involved with teaching ASL for the two decades. I also am currently ASLTA certificated. I enjoy cycling, drinking coffee, and sharing my love for animals.
Email: kara.gournaris@uconn.edu She/her/hers |