Accessibility Review
As a deaf professional with a deep understanding of the many varieties of communication and culture among deaf and hard of hearing people, I offer focused accessibility reviews tailored to museums. During a site visit, I conduct a thorough evaluation of your institution’s physical environment, exhibits, and visitor experiences.
My written report outlines my findings and recommendations, and offers actionable examples for implementing my suggested improvements.
Evaluation Management
I explored a variety of evaluation techniques during my doctoral studies, and have developed several methods to help museums understand the needs and perspectives of their deaf visitors. I work alongside your own evaluation team through every step of the process, from participant recruitment to data analysis and report generation. I conduct interviews and focus groups in American Sign Language and/or International Sign, allowing participants to convey their views directly to an evaluator without needing to go through a translator.
Deaf-Friendliness Projects
I can support your museum’s transformation into a deaf-friendly institution on a large or small scale, working within a variety of budgets. These projects often begin with an accessibility audit, and we work together to determine your evaluation and training needs, implement practical changes, and set up systems to ensure your continued effectiveness after our time together has ended. Examples of offerings within this service include full-scope development of video tours in sign language, revision of your website to ensure deaf visitors have the information they need, and weaving deaf stories into your exhibitions to ensure visitors feel connected to the material.
Presentations and Trainings
I offer informative and engaging presentations on the importance of creating welcoming museum experiences so that deaf and disabled visitors can feel a sense of belonging in museums. I train front-of-house staff on how to interact with deaf visitors, and back-of-house staff on what changes can be made in their departments to ensure disability-friendly experiences.
For deaf-led groups, I offer workshops on archiving, heritage preservation, museum development, and other aspects of bringing your community’s history to deaf and hearing audiences.
As a trained historian, I also offer presentations and classes on American deaf history. These programs offer a glimpse into the important heritage that shapes the worldview of your visitors.
Exhibit Curation and Development
I have curated numerous exhibitions about various aspects of the deaf community over my career, and assisted subject matter experts to transform their information into museum-ready material. I can fill a variety of exhibition roles including research, content development, curation, and editing.
Historical Research and Writing
My Master’s degree is in History, with concentrations in public history and U.S. history. I offer research and writing on deaf history, disability history, and queer history; contact me to discuss more specific subjects.