Left to right: Abigail Powers, Grayson Gonzalez, Diane Rifaie, Carly Missildine and
Ivan Jarama
The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders and the ASL Bulls student organization
hosted American Sign Language (ASL) Day for nearly 250 high school students from across
the Tampa Bay area.
During the event, current University of South Florida (USF) interpreting students
guided visitors on a campus tour, led ASL conversational practice in a voice-off environment
and facilitated a Kahoot! game that tested participants’ knowledge of ASL and USF
history.
Through interactive activities with faculty and students, attendees explored how studying
ASL could lead to meaningful career opportunities. The experience encouraged students
to see themselves in higher education and to consider academic and professional paths
they may not have previously imagined.
Organizers recognized ASL Bulls leadership, including Abby Powers, Grayson Gonzalez
and Carly Missildine, for their support in making the event possible.
All ASL and interpreting faculty and staff participated in the event in roles that
included tabling and logistics. Faculty participants included Steven Surrency, PhD, ASL Interpreting program director, department associate chair and professor of instruction;
Diane Rifaie, MS, assistant instructor; Ivan Jarama, MS, assistant instructor; Samantha Thomas, MA, NIC, senior instructor; and Haley Eyster, BA, NIC, director of Hands On USF.