2009 ASLTA Conference

Phoenix will host the next ASLTA conference which is officially the fifth National Professional Development Conference at Arizona Biltmore Resort & SPA in Phoenix on October 29 – November 1, 2009. Gerry Francini is chair with Judie Cronlund, vice-chair, Larry Forestal, secretary, and Judy Mohan, special assistant.
More than 400 conference participants are anticipated from across the nation and some foreign nations. The conference will include a keynote speaker, diversity of presenters of professional development workshops, booth exhibits, and Western style dance-social event.

The 2009 ASLTA Conference at Phoenix is encouraging the active and dynamic participation among members, professionals, and friends. For those who are interested should immediately check http://www.aslta.org/ for the Early Bird registration form and then complete and mail it to: Special Assistant Judy Mohan as soon as possible.

The ASLTA is dedicated to the continuous and professional growth of teaching ASL and Deaf Studies. It is an individual membership organization comprised of ASL and Deaf Studies teachers, program directors, linguists, interpreters, and researchers ranging from elementary education to higher education.
Feel free to check http://www.aslta.org/.

Larry Forestal
Public Relations-Secretary, 2009 ASLTA Conference at Phoenix

The ASLTA is very pleased to let you know that the national organization will host the 2009 ASLTA Conference at Phoenix, Arizona on October 28 – November 1, 2009. I sincerely encourage you, fellow members and friends to consider taking active part in our exciting and unique conference. Our conference theme is VISION of American Sign Language: CHALLENGE and CREATIVITY. We are anticipating approximately 400 participants.

The DeafNation is our media sponsor. They will assist us in publicizing our upcoming conference on this web site: 2009aslta.deafnation.com.  You can also check our web site: www.aslta.org.

Our 2009 ASLTA Conference Committee is planning a mobile booth display at the DeafNation Expo in Denver on September 20, Chicago on October 4, Seattle on October 18, and Pleasanton, California on October 25. It was very successful in Phoenix, Orlando and Pomona, California last spring.

American Sign Language is the natural language of the Deaf Americans. The ASLTA is full support of the NAD position of statement that acquisition of language from birth is a human right for every person, and that Deaf infants and children should appreciate the opportunity to acquire and develop proficiency in ASL as early as possible.

The ASLTA is the only national organization dedicated to the improvement and growth of the professional instruction of ASL and Deaf Studies. This organization sponsors a nationwide ASL teacher certification plan.

The ultimate success of interpreting depends on student interpreters’ learning the structure of ASL and their understanding of the linguistic aspects of ASL. Effective interpreting in such various fields as education, business, employment, community service, and cultural enrichment has become one of highest priorities in Deaf America. That is why the ASLTA works closely with the Conference of Interpreter Trainers (CIT), which advocates for educational advancement and specialized training of sign language interpreters.

Without a doubt, the ASLTA is looking forward to having you join us celebrate the vision of American Sign Language at Phoenix on October 29-November 1, 2009.

Please feel free to contact Chair Geraldine Francini for further information at gfrancini11@aol.com.

Sincerely yours,
Larry Forestal, Secretary
2009 ASLTA Conference at Phoenix