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About Jen &
I began practicing as a sign language interpreter in 2004 and continue to work in various settings to keep a pulse on the trends and challenges of this profession. When I am not interpreting, I work as an educator, mentor, coach, and collaborator. Back in 2017, I completed a graduate degree focused on interpreter education from the University of North Florida, and since then, have been exploring ways to contribute to the field by supporting interpreters.
On a personal note... I live in Wisconsin with my spouse, four children, dog & cat. Life is busy, but when I can, I like to be outside to enjoy whatever season we are in, playing games with family & friends, baking delicious cupcakes, or enjoying great books & movies.
Now, I want to share a short story that will help you get to know me and my approach... a formative moment for my future professional work happened back in middle school. I decided to try out for the dance team and I was really nervous- so nervous that about halfway through the audition, I forgot the entire dance routine. I remember the feeling of panic when my mind blanked and all I could do was just keep going and try my best. I knew my audition was lousy, but surprisingly, I made the team anyway. Why? How? Well, I found out later that it was because I didn't give up. The coach saw that I gave it my all and told me they believed in my POTENTIAL.
Although I didn't realize what was happening back then, I now see how lucky I was to have that kind of support. I thrive in environments where people trust my abilities & see my potential. And I know I am not alone. That is why I do the work that I do- whether I am teaching, coaching, collaborating, or interpreting, my goal is create that space for others. The space where they feel seen, validated, and supported to do what it takes to reach their own potential.
My Approach as a Consultant...
My Approach as a Consultant...
Creativity and improved outcomes are achieved when people who have different insights, life experiences, knowledge, and perspectives work together. It is what makes consulting exciting and it is the reason that each new collaboration leads to a new end result. When in a consultant role, my goal is to first connect & understand the ways I can support the person, group or organization with my knowledge & expertise. Then, we create a plan to accomplish the vision and goal. The process from there is iterative & collaborative, meaning whatever the task, you will have input along the way to ensure we are on the path toward what you envisioned.
My Approach as an Educator, Mentor & Coach...
My Approach as an Educator, Mentor & Coach...
If you read the story above, you know about my fundamental belief that everyone deserves to believe in their potential, and could guess that I care about creating empowering learning opportunities. I get it. The time and energy invested in professional development is a valuable commodity. Through the years, I have come to understand that although interpreters are interested in learning new things, they also need to know that they are not alone in their struggles, that they are doing the best they can, and that the time spent learning will strengthen their practice. That is why workshops, courses, mentoring, and curriculum are interactive, reflective, and supportive. I strive to be kind, mindful & compassionate, even in the most difficult aspects of teaching and learning. No one is perfect, we all struggle, and I am here for it all.
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