ASL Classifiers
Presented by SignPlaying.com’s Eric Epstein! Scroll down for more info.
Evening Assignments
We want to ensure access for all graduates and their supporters. Please consider picking up some of these slots.
Summer Check-In
Use the slow time to get caught up on required training. Reach out to HR for support or if you need to confirm what is outstanding.
Amber Carlson
I was a very average student in high school, typically earning C’s and B’s and never a straight-A student. However, I always excelled in ASL classes, never getting anything lower than an A+. Then I discovered that I could make a career out of ASL as an interpreter, and I never looked back. I went to college and earned my associate’s degree in ASL Interpreting, my bachelor’s in Deaf Studies, and I will graduate with my master’s in Interpreting Studies in June.
I want to become a mentor for ITP students to encourage and prepare our future interpreters for their careers and help keep them in the field long term.
I enjoy reading, especially fantasy and romance. I also enjoy going on geological digs — I have a whole toolkit! I love finding geodes and corundum, and I always have to point out a good olivine rock when I see one. I also love finding new places to eat over the weekends. I’m a big foodie and love to try new things.
I am also a proud wife and stepmom to two beautiful, wonderful children who are 14 and 12. I have always wanted to be a mother, and I’m so blessed to have been able to start that journey a little early with two wonderful kids who were only 8 and 9 when I first came into their lives. They have been so welcoming and accepting of me, and I couldn’t ask for a better life.
My husband and children are definitely my motivation to keep going. They keep me grounded and definitely on my toes as well.
Sarai Naulls
Sarai Naulls has been a RISE Signing Aide since September 2024. One of her interests is collecting vintage purses, a hobby that reflects her appreciation for unique pieces with history and character.
Sarai was first introduced to ASL in high school, where she chose it as her second language and quickly fell in love with it. This early passion grew into a meaningful commitment to community connection, as she values promoting language access and supporting the rich talents of the Deaf community.
Her connection to RISE became even stronger after graduating with her degree. Her cousin, a former RISE employee, recognized that Sarai’s passion and skills would be a natural fit for the organization.
In her role, Sarai demonstrates what it means to be people centered, always considering the needs of the individuals and families she supports and striving to make communication accessible and meaningful. She also embraces opportunities to RISE to the challenge, approaching each situation with determination and a willingness to grow.
Looking ahead, Sarai’s goal is to continue developing professionally by earning certifications and taking classes that will strengthen her skills as a Signing Aide and future interpreter. A fun fact about Sarai is that she and her husband enjoy spending their free time line dancing together.
Congratulations, Katie!
Please join us in celebrating Katie Mikesell passing the EIPA. This is a meaningful accomplishment, and we’re excited to celebrate her hard work and continued growth.
Signing Aide Graduates
We are so proud of all who recently graduated! A special congratulations goes out to Daisy Espinoza, Ryan Shen, and Stosha Coley on completing the Deaf Studies program at CSUN.
Did you graduate recently? We want to celebrate your hard work! Please send us your graduation photos so we can give you a well-deserved shout-out.
ASL Classifiers and Translation
Date: July 25, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Online
Click the flyer to view the full workshop PDF. You can also visit our Workshops page for more details and future offerings.
Eric Epstein
Eric Epstein is an ASL poet, educator, and translator whose work has been featured in the Folger Shakespeare Library traveling exhibition and Rail Switch journal. His signing arts curriculum can be found at Signplaying.com.
See examples of Eric’s work:
A few important notes
CPI Training
CPI Training will be held in July for Signing Aides and Interpreters. Brittany Miller will send details to those who are required to complete this training.
ABA Training Deadline
Annual ABA Training on Vector Solutions must be completed by August 1, 2026. Please reach out to HR with any questions.
Recognizing Sandra Lopez & Thomas York
Sandra Lopez
Sandra Lopez has consistently demonstrated what it means to RISE to the challenge by embracing the unique needs of her students with patience, compassion, and determination. She is always striving to make a meaningful difference in her students’ lives, not only impacting their daily school experience, but also creating long-term positive outcomes through her hard work and dedication.
Sandra also exemplifies what it means to be people centered by always considering what is in the best interest of her students and supporting their growth every step of the way. This year, one of her peers recognized the incredible impact of Sandra’s efforts after seeing the tremendous progress a student made from the beginning of the school year to the end. Her commitment and care truly make a lasting difference.
Keep up the great work, Sandra!
Thomas York
Thomas truly exemplifies RISE’s core value of “RISE to the Challenge.” While working with a student who can present unique challenges, Thomas consistently demonstrates patience, determination, and a deep commitment to ensuring his student’s success. One of his coworkers noted that it was evident that he is willing to do whatever it takes to meet his student’s needs and create a positive and safe learning experience.
Thomas remained open to feedback, receptive to support, and thoughtful in evaluating which strategies would be most effective for his student. Rather than becoming discouraged by difficult situations, he approaches them as opportunities to learn, adapt, and grow in order to better support his student.
Thomas’s dedication, flexibility, and perseverance make a meaningful impact, and we appreciate the way he continues to rise to the challenge every day for his student’s success.
Having trouble accessing Insperity?
We occasionally experience issues accessing Insperity. HR has a resource outlining common reasons for these login difficulties.
Please reach out to Human Resources if you need additional support.
June Birthdays
Wishing a very happy birthday to our June birthday crew!
Rosalie Bradley
Hannah Mattix
Jasmine Cogswell
Christiana Leyvas
Sabrina Hermosillo
Rebecca McAllister
Noelle Cavazos
Zackery Zigler
May Statistics
Benchmark
noun
Definition: something that serves as a standard, point of reference, or basis for comparison.
Example: “This assessment can serve as a benchmark for measuring professional growth.”
Joke of the Month
Scientists recently combined the DNA of a cheetah with the DNA of a crab. Things went sideways really fast!
Have something to share next month?
Send in employee highlights, department updates, photos, Deaf community spotlights, pet features, or peer props so we can continue celebrating the RISE team.
