Profile

Signed language linguist and engineer focused on computer processing of signed language, and its generation with virtual agents/avatars.

Education

Université de Bretagne-Sud, Vannes, France

PhD, Computer Science, 2011

With the SignCom project, our aim is to develop and implement a virtual character that interacts in real time with deaf users of French Sign Language.

Gallaudet University, Washington, DC

MA, Linguistics, 2008

Research and coursework based on signed languages aimed at uncovering the universals of all languages – spoken or signed. Fieldwork with various foreign signed languages; analysis utilized generative and cognitive approaches to linguistic understanding, as well as modern phonetic modeling systems.

Stanford University, Stanford, CA

BS, Engineering (Product Design), 2005

Hosted by the Department of Mechanical Engineering, the Product Design program emphasizes the incorporation of art, critical thinking, and Mechanical Engineering fundamentals for designing new products and experiences for a wide variety of users. Elective coursework including two years of learning American Sign Language and one quarter of assisting with instruction, and a seminar course on the past, present, and future methods of bilingual education both domestically and abroad.

Work Experience

Research Assistant

Gallaudet University, Washington, DC
2007-2008

Elicitation and analysis of linguistic data from Children of Deaf Adults (CODAs) for a language acquisition study.

Interpreter & Interpreter Coordinator

McLean Bible Church, Vienna, VA
2008

Coordinate a volunteer staff of 25 American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters for one of the largest churches in the Washington DC area. Responsibilities include scheduling interpreters for weekly services and classes, responding to requests for one-time interpreted events, screening new volunteers, and mentoring and evaluating established interpreters. Interfacing with the Deaf public to establish guidelines for our provided services and respond to compliments and criticism requires sharp personal communication skills. Interpret as needed for Sunday assignments.

Interpreter

World Congress of the World Federation of the Deaf, Madrid, Spain
2007

Provided an ASL-to-English interpretation at the largest gathering of Deaf people in the world. Lecture topics related to technical aspects of linguistic analysis.

ASL Teaching Assistant

Stanford University, Stanford, CA
2004

Experience in leading class teaching topics and discussions pertaining to American Sign Language. Also interpreted as needed.

Languages

Native: American English
Fluency: ASL (American Sign Language)
Competency: Spanish and French

Memberships

Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) — USA
National Association of the Deaf (NAD) — USA