The World Language and Literatures Department at the College of Liberal Arts celebrated National American Sign Language Day on April 13, at the Reno Public Market with a gathering to celebrate a language that transcends barriers and nurtures inclusivity, American Sign Language (ASL).
On April 15, 1817, the first enduring school for the deaf in the United States marked its inception, a milestone that paved the way for recognizing the significance of this unique language. Today, ASL serves as a vital means of communication for approximately 500,000 individuals across the United States and Canada.
Since 2015, Andrea D. Juillerat-Olvera, alongside a dedicated team of deaf advocates including Gary Olsen, Jennifer Montoya, Gina Burnaugh and Evan Adair, has been tirelessly working to enhance sign language education at the University of ÁùºÏ±¦µä, Reno. Juillerat-Olvera has been in the field for 24 years and is currently registered with the state as an advanced educational interpreter and a skilled community interpreter.
Building on this legacy, the College of Liberal Arts has introduced an ASL minor since 2022 and is actively developing a bachelor's degree program in ASL Interpreting.
As the chair of the World Languages and Literatures Department and an assistant professor, Erin Edgington, Ph.D., emphasizes that learning a new language transcends mere practicality—it opens doors to diverse cultures and ways of life, broadening perspectives and enriching self-awareness. Studies show that bilingualism not only enhances understanding of one's native language and culture but also fosters personal growth and career advancement. In fact, multilingual employees can earn up to 20% more than their monolingual counterparts, underscoring the value of language proficiency in today's global workforce.
Edgington encourages students from all disciplines to explore the diverse offerings of the World Languages and Literatures Department, highlighting that many of our majors are double majors or pursuing dual degrees, showcasing the versatility of language studies.
Enrollment in ASL courses is on the rise, reflecting a growing interest and commitment to linguistic diversity. As the World Language and Literatures Department enters the advanced registration period for the class of 2028, it's evident that students are recognizing the importance of ASL, with many continuing their studies from high school into university. This trend reflects the increasing demand for language programs across the College.
To learn more about the ASL Minor and our wide array of language programs, visit the World Languages and Literatures website.
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