October 8, 2010

With the NC ASLTA Conference quickly approaching, it is hard to believe my second term as NC ASLTA President will soon be over. Still, that does not mean that I am done with whatever responsibilities I could assume to serve and continue to be actively involved with NC ASLTA’s current affairs. Because of every one of you and your support, the past four years has been an awesome journey. So from the bottom of my heart, I am personally very grateful for the opportunity you have given me to represent you.

As of this report, we have had only one but a fantastic workshop, which was provided by Sharon Hurley on fingerspelling last April. There is no need to be concerned about a lack of training, as we will still have a wonderful series of workshops at our upcoming conference. Based on comments I have received from interpreters and professionals from other related fields, I have found that they often think our training program is targeted for ASL instructors. That might be true but I promise for anyone who wishes to attend, they will definitely appreciate the learning experience. NC ASLTA is fortunate that we have a relatively small pool of well-respected ASL training specialists possessing vast and unique knowledge. I would dare say their combined years of knowledge would be 50+ years that they have invested in our ASL education and training programs. I encourage you to come, join us and take advantage of what we have to offer. You do have time to consider attending our biennial conference so please go and check our website at www.ncaslta.org for information. Once again, the opportunity is there and something you do not want to miss.

I am very pleased to report that NC ASLTA’s SLPI: ASL service is still very much alive and active. Being innovative with cost-effective technology, we will expand from one host to four hosts statewide. We continue to evaluate our service from time to time to ensure that our ratings are reliable and valid. We also have devised annual reports to highlight our service statistics as well as to aid us in continuous improvement. Last week a set of questions I developed were brought to the attention of our raters for discussion. Their input will help shape the quality of our service. One more thing, I regret to inform the members that Kathy Apperson has submitted her resignation as NC ASLTA’s SLPI: ASL Coordinator. However, she has agreed to serve as the Charlotte host so we know she will still be with us. We do have an excellent replacement in mind, which will be announced very soon.

With much anticipation and excitement, soon after the November Conference, we will start planning for the 2013 ASLTA Conference here in Charlotte. We are optimistic that the Charlotte City Center Hilton will be the conference site. We will soon have our conference theme. We are also preparing a brief skit or performance as the next conference host to be presented during the Seattle Conference in July 2011. I know it will come with a lot of work but I have no doubt that the members we have will make the difference and ensure our success. We all are excited about this rare opportunity.

One more thing before I conclude my report is to share that the ASLTA President announced in his most recent article that ASLTA membership has doubled since last year. I challenge NC ASLTA to strive to increase our membership to 100 or more in the coming year. Statistically, it is a realistic goal as there are many sign language teachers who have not been nationally certified by ASLTA nor have they joined NC ASLTA. Having a good number of members will definitely make us strong and ready for the 2013 ASLTA Conference.

Finally, I conclude my report asking you one more time to please come and join us for the upcoming Conference! During the General Assembly meeting, a number of accomplishments will be highlighted. Also, a number of dreams we would like to see accomplished will be identified. Thank you very much for your loyalty and commitment to our NC ASLTA.

Best regards,

James M. Wilson, President