Kimberly Clifford is passionate about bridging gaps between the Deaf community and hearing individuals. “I’m a friend of the community, not an original member,” she shares. Though American Sign Language (ASL) isn’t her first language, she teaches it with enthusiasm, emphasizing the importance of Deaf people sharing their own stories.
UC Clermont has seen a surge in interest for ASL courses, with 100 to 150 students enrolling each semester. These classes allow students to fulfill foreign language requirements and even earn a certificate in Deaf Studies. This program is particularly valuable for those in fields like education, social work, and business. Clifford believes that connecting students with Deaf adults enriches their understanding and appreciation of the language and culture.
Clifford’s dedication stems from her time as a sign language interpreter for Deaf children in public schools. Many of these kids came from hearing families and hadn’t met Deaf adults before. These experiences, along with teaching ASL at UC Clermont since 2000, shape her mission of broadening students’ views on language and community.
This year’s storytelling event showcased a diverse group of presenters, aged from their 20s to 70s, offering a rich tapestry of backgrounds and experiences. The audience included UC students, those from other colleges, high school ASL students, and members of the Deaf community—highlighting the growing success of this event and its partnerships with local educational institutions.
Clifford finds value in guiding storytellers. “Helping people share their stories is a treasure,” she reflects. “The lessons we learn from them are incredibly valuable.”
In fact, events like this help raise awareness about the Deaf community and its rich culture. According to a 2021 survey by the National Deaf Center, there are approximately 1 million people who use ASL in the U.S. This shows just how vital it is to continue fostering connections through storytelling and education.
For those interested in ASL courses at UC Clermont, you can reach out to Kimberly Clifford at kimberly.clifford@uc.edu.
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