NEWS RELEASE
LAKE SUPERIOR STATE UNIVERSITY
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Lake Superior State University introduces a non-credit/introductory level course designed to enhance inclusivity and communication within our community: American Sign Language (ASL).
Hannah Burton-Parrish, LSSU’s Accessibility Services Coordinator, and Sheri Bertram-LeBarre, an EIPA and RID ED K-12 certified Sign Language Interpreter, unexpectedly found themselves joining forces to create an introductory sign language class this spring after connecting through Facebook just months earlier.
"It was the Sault Rants and Raves page that brought us together," said Burton-Parrish. After introducing herself over the phone to LeBarre, they quickly agreed they had a common goal to bring a sign-language class to the Sault Ste. Marie area.
With deep roots in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, Bertram-LeBarre recognizes a crucial gap for Deaf education in our community. Inspired by her own journey, as a parent to a daughter with profound hearing loss, she advocates for enhancing local support and services.
“By teaching an American Sign Language class, I hope that people will be more aware of people who are Deaf or hard of hearing and learn how to communicate with them. I also want to encourage the students in our class who enjoy learning sign language to consider going further and perhaps pursue a career in Deaf Education or Interpreting,” said Instructor LeBarre.
Understanding that the Deaf community thrives on its unique language, values, and traditions, the course emphasizes cultural sensitivity alongside linguistic proficiency. Remarking on the cultural aspect of the course Bertram-LeBarre stated, “It is crucial that the students explore aspects of ASL such as communication etiquette, the significance of eye contact, and the values cherished by the Deaf community. I want the people taking this course to leave with an appreciation for Deaf culture, you cannot study the language without understanding the culture.”
Burton-Parrish underscores the transformative potential of ASL education at LSSU. She envisions a more inclusive community where every member, regardless of hearing status, feels valued and understood. By learning ASL, students and community members alike can actively contribute to making Sault Ste. Marie is a more welcoming place for all.
“My hope is that we can connect with members of our community who may be relatively cut off from the rest of us because a communication gap exists. At LSSU especially we want people to know that they are welcome here and for them to feel included,” said Burton-Parrish. “A huge step towards that will be welcoming Deaf community members into our public library and onto our campus by showing them that we want to communicate with them. I am also interested in hosting Deaf cultural events and gatherings for LSSU students and community members so I encourage anyone who is interested to reach out.”
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