People

Diane Lillo-Martin, PhD

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

 

Linda Pelletier, PhD

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

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Mike Schlang

Hello!  My name is Mike Schlang and I am a faculty member in the ASL program teaching ASL courses at UConn.  I had my first start in ASL instruction in 2006 and have been teaching ASL ever since.  I grew up in a Deaf family as my parents and my sister are all Deaf.  Aside from being busy with my ASL courses, I enjoy spending time with my beautiful wife and two boys.  I also am an avid sports fan and I support all Boston sports teams with a real passion!  

 

Email: michael.schlang@uconn.edu

He/him/his

Colleen Shaw

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