Join the College of Nursing and Health Sciences in person or online for two health equity lectures: “Narratives from the Deaf Community & Biracial Family Challenges in the Health System” and “Know Your Privileges: A Story of the Black Deaf,” on January 24.
Narratives from the Deaf Community & Biracial Family Challenges in the Health System
Friday, January 24, 2025
3:00 - 5:00 PM
Med Ed 200 Sullivan Classroom & Online
This event is free.
About Melissa Kate Adams-Silva
Melissa Kate Adams-Silva (MK) is a passionate educator, lifelong learner, and proud native Vermonter. With a background in Fine Arts and Deaf Education, she earned her bachelor’s degree from the Rochester Institute of Technology and her Master's degree from the National Institute of Technology, both in Rochester, New York. Over the past decade, MK has taught American Sign Language (ASL) at several colleges as well as at various schools both public and private across the U.S. and currently serves as a faculty member right here at ̽̽, where she is part of the College of Education and Social Services (CESS).
MK has dedicated her career to empowering students of all ages and abilities, creating inclusive and engaging learning environments. She has worked with diverse communities, advocating for Deaf awareness and breaking down barriers in education as well as in the world around us. MK’s personal life is just as dynamic as her professional one. She and her husband Adam, a Deaf Korean man who was born in Korea and raised in New England, are the proud parents of four Children of Deaf Adults (CODAs). Together, they embrace the joys of homeschooling, travel, and creating meaningful memories as a family.
MK and Adam were recently featured in the book Success Wisdom by Deaf and Hard of Hearing People, written by Deaf author Karen Putz, showcasing their shared commitment to raising awareness and fostering inclusivity and passion in the Deaf community.
Know Your Privileges: A Story of the Black Deaf
Friday, January 24, 2025
6:00 - 7:00 PM
Online
This event is free.
About Britteny Staffieri
Brittney is a dedicated lecturer and Ph.D. student at ̽̽. Originally from sunny California, she embraced the snowy landscapes of Vermont as a chance to grow and experience a new environment. Since 2017, Brittney has been teaching a wide range of courses, including ASL levels 1-4 and the History of Sign Language and Deaf Culture. Passionate about education and community, she is committed to fostering understanding and appreciation of Deaf culture and language.