Biographies of Prominent
Utah Interpreters
Compiled & Written by Jodi Christel Becker
Published in 2012
Updated in 2025
Published in 2012
Updated in 2025
Author's Note
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the interpreters mentioned in their biographies. Their dedication and remarkable achievements in the field of interpreting, along with their significant contributions to the Utah Deaf community, are truly commendable. Their hard work not only bridges communication gaps but also fosters understanding and inclusivity for Deaf individuals in the state of Utah. It is inspiring to witness how their passion for language and culture positively impacts the community. Their commitment serves as a reminder of the vital role interpreters play in promoting accessibility and equality, and the profound impact they have on the Utah Deaf community. As we celebrate their accomplishments, let us also pledge to support their efforts and advocate for the ongoing needs of the Utah Deaf community.
Since its inception in 1968, the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf has been a foundational part of our interpreting community. It has played a crucial role in reflecting our rich history and the dedication of our interpreters. Together, we have celebrated the acknowledgment of American Sign Language as an official language in Utah and advocated for mandatory interpreter certification, which led to the establishment of the Utah Interpreter Program. This program has not only enhanced the quality of interpreting services but also fostered a strong sense of unity among interpreters. As we move forward, we remain committed to promoting excellence, accessibility, and advocacy for the Utah Deaf community, united in our mission. Your contributions to this success are invaluable and something to be proud of.
Religion, particularly The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has had a major influence on Utah's history, including its Deaf community. Biographies of individuals within this community highlight their religious affiliations and contributions, serving as essential records for families and preserving history. These stories enhance Utah's cultural and religious diversity, allowing future generations to appreciate and remember them.
In my historical work, I use first names for everyone—men, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals—to honor their unique contributions and challenge the patriarchal norm of associating women's achievements with their husbands' last names. This choice acknowledges their contributions under their names, which is essential for recognizing their identities. Using first names not only makes each person feel valued and respected, but it also highlights the importance of women's advocacy in our community and fosters inclusivity. This approach emphasizes women's accomplishments and contributions while acknowledging the unique identity of each individual.
Also, our organization was previously known as the Utah Association for the Deaf, but we changed our name to the Utah Association of the Deaf in 2012. For some background, we were known as the Utah Association of the Deaf from 1909 to 1962, then became the Utah Association for the Deaf in 1963, and finally reverted to our original name in 2012. When I write for the history website, I mention both "of" and "for" to reflect the different eras of our association's history.
Thank you to our interpreters for their outstanding work in supporting the Utah Deaf community. Their dedication enhances communication and fosters a strong sense of belonging and understanding. I truly appreciate their contributions and the positive impact they have on the lives of many individuals.
As we honor these exceptional individuals, we encourage everyone to join us in supporting and advocating for the needs of the Utah Deaf community. Their hard work has significantly improved the quality of life for many individuals within this community.
Thank you for taking an interest in this topic.
Enjoy!
Jodi Christel Becker
Since its inception in 1968, the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf has been a foundational part of our interpreting community. It has played a crucial role in reflecting our rich history and the dedication of our interpreters. Together, we have celebrated the acknowledgment of American Sign Language as an official language in Utah and advocated for mandatory interpreter certification, which led to the establishment of the Utah Interpreter Program. This program has not only enhanced the quality of interpreting services but also fostered a strong sense of unity among interpreters. As we move forward, we remain committed to promoting excellence, accessibility, and advocacy for the Utah Deaf community, united in our mission. Your contributions to this success are invaluable and something to be proud of.
Religion, particularly The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has had a major influence on Utah's history, including its Deaf community. Biographies of individuals within this community highlight their religious affiliations and contributions, serving as essential records for families and preserving history. These stories enhance Utah's cultural and religious diversity, allowing future generations to appreciate and remember them.
In my historical work, I use first names for everyone—men, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals—to honor their unique contributions and challenge the patriarchal norm of associating women's achievements with their husbands' last names. This choice acknowledges their contributions under their names, which is essential for recognizing their identities. Using first names not only makes each person feel valued and respected, but it also highlights the importance of women's advocacy in our community and fosters inclusivity. This approach emphasizes women's accomplishments and contributions while acknowledging the unique identity of each individual.
Also, our organization was previously known as the Utah Association for the Deaf, but we changed our name to the Utah Association of the Deaf in 2012. For some background, we were known as the Utah Association of the Deaf from 1909 to 1962, then became the Utah Association for the Deaf in 1963, and finally reverted to our original name in 2012. When I write for the history website, I mention both "of" and "for" to reflect the different eras of our association's history.
Thank you to our interpreters for their outstanding work in supporting the Utah Deaf community. Their dedication enhances communication and fosters a strong sense of belonging and understanding. I truly appreciate their contributions and the positive impact they have on the lives of many individuals.
As we honor these exceptional individuals, we encourage everyone to join us in supporting and advocating for the needs of the Utah Deaf community. Their hard work has significantly improved the quality of life for many individuals within this community.
Thank you for taking an interest in this topic.
Enjoy!
Jodi Christel Becker
Background History
of Interpreting
of Interpreting
The Utah Deaf community, known as Children of Deaf Adults (CODAs), has played a pivotal role for many years. They were not just interpreters at various events and appointments but also served as bridges between the Deaf and hearing worlds, often in high-stakes situations. This practice continued until the establishment of the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) in 1964, a major event that marked the professionalization of interpreting services for the Deaf community. Despite their considerable roles, the media often referred to them as 'interpreters' without providing specific names. This lack of recognition highlighted a broader issue within the field, as the contributions of these individuals were often overlooked. As the profession evolved, there was a growing need for interpreters to be respected and visible, emphasizing their crucial role in facilitating communication and understanding across cultures.
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, a Child of a Deaf Adult (CODA) and former sign language interpreter, highlighted an important point. Before the late 1950s and early 1960s, there were no sign language classes or interpreter training programs available. Despite this lack of formal training, interpreters—especially CODAs—played a vital role in the Utah Deaf community by volunteering their services and demonstrating their commitment and contributions (Stewart, UAD Bulletin, June 1973). Their efforts laid the groundwork for future advancements in sign language education and interpreter training, ultimately fostering a more inclusive environment for Deaf individuals. This dedication not only bridged communication gaps but also empowered the Utah Deaf community to advocate more effectively for their rights and needs.
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, a Child of a Deaf Adult (CODA) and former sign language interpreter, highlighted an important point. Before the late 1950s and early 1960s, there were no sign language classes or interpreter training programs available. Despite this lack of formal training, interpreters—especially CODAs—played a vital role in the Utah Deaf community by volunteering their services and demonstrating their commitment and contributions (Stewart, UAD Bulletin, June 1973). Their efforts laid the groundwork for future advancements in sign language education and interpreter training, ultimately fostering a more inclusive environment for Deaf individuals. This dedication not only bridged communication gaps but also empowered the Utah Deaf community to advocate more effectively for their rights and needs.
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell. Photo: Robert L. Bonnell
During the 1960s and 1970s, the United States witnessed a wave of social justice movements, including those within the Deaf community. These movements, part of the larger Civil Rights era, had a profound impact on the interpreting industry (Humphrey & Alcorn, 2001), marking a period of notable progress. The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf was established to highlight the growing importance of professional interpreters within the Code of Professional Conduct, moving beyond the notion of interpreters as merely 'helpers' (Stewart, UAD Bulletin, June 1973). This era of social change was instrumental in creating the interpreting industry as we know it today. This evolution emphasized the need for skilled professionals who could facilitate effective communication between Deaf and hearing individuals. As a result, the interpreting profession gained recognition and respect, paving the way for enhanced training programs and ethical standards that continue to guide practitioners today.
Madelaine Burton Perkins relays information for Robert G. Sanderson during proceeding in Judge Gordon Hall's courtroom. Source: UAD Bulletin, February 1972
In Utah, the Deaf community initially relied on individuals who were hard of hearing, having learned sign language before using hearing aids, as well as those who had lost their hearing but developed strong oral communication skills. However, by 1961, the number of Deaf individuals born deaf in Utah began to rise, while the percentage of those who became deaf later showed a decline. Moreover, the number of Deaf individuals with multiple disabilities increased during this period (UAD Bulletin, Spring 1961, p. 2). In response to these shifting demographics and the growing demand for interpreting services, the Utah Deaf community took proactive steps. They recognized the need for support and established the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf to address their interpreting requirements, empowering themselves and their community. This initiative provided essential resources for communication and fostered a greater understanding of Deaf culture within the broader community. As a result, the Utah Deaf community became more engaged and influential in advocating for their rights and needs.
Doris Wastlund interprets the classroom at the University of Utah. Source: UAD Bulletin, February 1972
Lucy Pearl McMills Greenwood
Lucy Pearl McMills Greenwood, a sign language interpreter for over forty years, primarily at the Ogden Branch for the Deaf, was a well-known figure in the field. She was one of the first licensed professional interpreters in the country during the 1960s and an active member of the Utah Association for the Deaf and the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf. However, her most significant role was as a strong advocate for the Utah Deaf community. Despite the challenges of raising a large family, Lucy's unwavering dedication to sign language interpreting and her voluntary service to the Utah Deaf community earned her widespread praise.
Lucy McMills Greenwood, Fall-Winter 1970-1971. Source: FamilySearch.org
Lucy Pearl McMills Greenwood was born on November 24, 1919, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Deaf parents John Wallace McMills and Pearl Ault. In the late 1800s, John and Pearl were students at the Utah School for the Deaf in Salt Lake City, Utah, and later in Ogden. They had two daughters, Lucy and Eva Alice (Prudence & Fowler). Lucy's older brother, John Ault McMills, died shortly after birth.
Lucy Pearl McMills on left Eva Alice McMills on right. Source: FamilySearch.org
Lucy's biography, written by the Ogden Branch for the Deaf, describes her happy childhood supporting her Deaf parents and playing with her sister Eva. Their early exposure to sign language and finger spelling paved the way for Lucy and Eva's rapid proficiency. As children, they attended school in the Salt Lake City District, where they often assisted their parents by interpreting messages and helping out at their father's McMills Shoe Repair Shop. This shop, located at 267 E. 5th South in Salt Lake City, was directly across the street from the Utah State Office of Education and near the Salt Lake City Police Department's driveway (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, June 11, 2015).
Lucy, John, Eva and Pearl McMills
Lucy went to her father's shoe shop every day after school to dye shoes. Her older sister, Eva, did the majority of the interpreting. The police repeatedly searched for Eva and took her from work to interpret for Deaf people (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, July 15, 2015).
For many years, interpreters volunteered to interpret without pay, making significant contributions to the Utah Deaf community. In an interview on August 5, 2024, Jean Thomas Greenwood shared that her Aunt Eva Alice Prudence Fowler, born on March 1, 1911, never received payment for her interpreting work and provided interpretation services for the Utah Deaf community from 1927 to 1965, leaving a lasting impact that influenced future interpreters such as Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, Madelaine Burton Perkins, Annette Tull, and Betty Jones. Eva also trained several individuals, including Madeline Burton Perkins and Jean Kinnet. Eva never received compensation for her significant contributions. The police frequently sought her out for court, jail, and hospital visits without prior notice, which is a testament to the demand for her skills and the profound impact of her work on the community (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, August 5, 2014).
For many years, interpreters volunteered to interpret without pay, making significant contributions to the Utah Deaf community. In an interview on August 5, 2024, Jean Thomas Greenwood shared that her Aunt Eva Alice Prudence Fowler, born on March 1, 1911, never received payment for her interpreting work and provided interpretation services for the Utah Deaf community from 1927 to 1965, leaving a lasting impact that influenced future interpreters such as Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, Madelaine Burton Perkins, Annette Tull, and Betty Jones. Eva also trained several individuals, including Madeline Burton Perkins and Jean Kinnet. Eva never received compensation for her significant contributions. The police frequently sought her out for court, jail, and hospital visits without prior notice, which is a testament to the demand for her skills and the profound impact of her work on the community (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, August 5, 2014).
Pearl Ault, Dan Prudence, Eva McMills Prudence, and John Wallace McMills. Source: FamilySearch.org
Lucy Pearl McMills Greenwood, Eva's younger sister, was a shining example of selflessness and dedication. Born on November 24, 1919, she began interpreting for her parents at the age of ten, mainly for her father, John Wallace McMills' McMills Shoe Repair Shop. Her professional interpreting journey began in 1936, both as a volunteer and for pay, and continued until 2008. Her first paid interpreting job was for G. Leon Curtis, one of Utah's prominent Deaf leaders, in the late 1960s at Weber State College, which later became a university. This milestone marked a significant advancement in the history of interpreting services, underscoring the growing recognition of the importance of interpreters in the community. Remarkably, Lucy worked for thirty years without receiving any pay, a testament to her selflessness and strong sense of duty. Gene Stewart, a vocational rehabilitation counselor, frequently reminded Jean to ask her mother, Lucy, to send invoices for her paychecks (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, August 5, 2014).
Over time, Eva McMills Prudence Fowler and Lucy McMills Greenwood became well-known interpreters in Utah (UAD Bulletin, February 1972).
Over time, Eva McMills Prudence Fowler and Lucy McMills Greenwood became well-known interpreters in Utah (UAD Bulletin, February 1972).
John Wallace McMills' J.W. McMills Repairing Shop. Lucy is standing next to her father, about 1926
Lucy was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. When she reached 18, the Relief Society invited her to participate in a program and dress up as the Bride of 1935. This was an unforgettable experience for her (LPMG Biography).
Lucy met her future husband, Virgil Rogers Greenwood, at a New Year's Eve dance and enjoyed chatting and dancing with him (LPMG Biography). He was Deaf and graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1931. Lucy and Virgil tied the knot in the Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints eight months later, on August 14, 1936. President George F. Richards, a Quorum of the Twelve Apostles member, performed the ceremony. He assured them they would live busy lives and leave a lasting legacy. His prediction came true when Lucy and Virgil became parents to nine children—five sons and four daughters (LPMG Biography). The children included Ruth Ann Greenwood (Felter), John Rogers Greenwood (who passed away at the age of 9), Virginia Ault Greenwood (Chambers), Virgil McMills Greenwood, Linda Alice Greenwood (Pepcorn), Jean Pearl Greenwood (Thomas), Charles Daniel Greenwood, Paul Francis Greenwood, and Timothy David Greenwood.
Lucy met her future husband, Virgil Rogers Greenwood, at a New Year's Eve dance and enjoyed chatting and dancing with him (LPMG Biography). He was Deaf and graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1931. Lucy and Virgil tied the knot in the Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints eight months later, on August 14, 1936. President George F. Richards, a Quorum of the Twelve Apostles member, performed the ceremony. He assured them they would live busy lives and leave a lasting legacy. His prediction came true when Lucy and Virgil became parents to nine children—five sons and four daughters (LPMG Biography). The children included Ruth Ann Greenwood (Felter), John Rogers Greenwood (who passed away at the age of 9), Virginia Ault Greenwood (Chambers), Virgil McMills Greenwood, Linda Alice Greenwood (Pepcorn), Jean Pearl Greenwood (Thomas), Charles Daniel Greenwood, Paul Francis Greenwood, and Timothy David Greenwood.
Virgil Rogers Greenwood. Source: FamilySearch.org
Virgil and Lucy resided in Roy, Utah, until the early 1940s. When they first married, Virgil was a farmer in Roy. He owned a little farm and converted his chicken coop into their small one-room home (which still stands today) on the northwest corner of 5600 South and 3100 West. They grew vegetables and chickens. Virgil worked on a vast 40-acre farm for his father, Ruben Percy Greenwood, milking thirty-six cows by hand twice daily. He was employed by other Roy farmers. Delos W. Holly, a farmer, told Jean in 1974 that everyone wanted to hire the Greenwoods because they were hard workers and good farmers (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, June 11, 2015).
Gloria Rogers Greenwood. Source: FamilySearch.org
Virgil was the oldest of five children, born to Ruben Percy Greenwood and Ethel Melissa Rogers. Virgil had three brothers and one sister. Bert was the second child; he was Deaf and attended public school in Roy, Utah. Stewart was the third child; he was Deaf and attended Utah School for the Deaf. Stewart, 24, was struck by a car in Roy on his way home from a dance in Ogden, Utah (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, April 9, 2019).
A car struck and killed two pedestrians, Stewart Greenwood, 24, and Chatelian Elsberry Chapman, 19. Source: The Ogden Standard-Examiner, February 9, 1938
Arden was the fourth child who could hear and went to public school. Gloria, also Deaf, was the youngest child to attend the Utah School for the Deaf. However, her mother wanted her to learn to speak, so Ethel sent Gloria to live with her sister, Maud Rogers Taylor, in Provo, Utah, from time to time, learning to talk from a teacher who resided there. Ethel Rogers Greenwood notes in her diary that her children all had terrible ear infections from birth, which caused their hearing loss (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, April 9, 2019).
Virgil Rogers Greenwood & Lucy Pearl McMills at Great Salt Lake, Utah. Source: FamilySearch.org
Virgil later left the farm to make a living. He was the state's first Deaf employee. Initially, he worked as a mechanic on B-52 bombers at Hill Air Force Base, creating a system that allowed a mechanic to work on the engine and rotate it as needed for repair. He eventually transferred to the Utah Defense Depot in Ogden (DDO) to be closer to home; at the time, they resided on Gwen Street in Ogden, just around the street from Frank and Orba Seeley (Deaf friends). Virgil walked to work every day until they relocated to Washington Boulevard in Ogden, and then he took the bus to and from work. He did this so Lucy would have a car and be able to go and interpret for her friends as needed (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, June 11, 2015).
Virgil Rogers Greenwood receives his thirty-year service award from Col. A.L. Schalbrack of the Defense Depot Ogden, Utah as his wife, Lucy, interprets. Source: UAD Bulletin, June 1972
Soon after Vigil and Lucy married, they settled in Roy, Utah, and attended services at the Ogden Branch for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah. According to her obituary, her lifelong service involved church services and interpreting for the deaf. Lucy spent 62 years as a trusted friend and interpreter in the Ogden Branch for the Deaf, 27 years as Young Women's President, an instructor and visiting teacher for the Relief Society, and a full-time mission to the deaf in Chicago, Illinois. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints invited Lucy to assist with several special projects, such as the establishment of the first mission training center for the deaf, special Temple projects, General Conference interpreting, and the translation of numerous LDS films into American Sign Language (UAD Bulletin, August 2011).
President Max W. Woodbury of Ogden Branch frequently asked Lucy to interpret for speakers. In 1946, President Woodbury requested that Lucy serve as President of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association (YWMIA) at the Ogden Branch for the Deaf. She served faithfully for twenty-three years. On November 5, 1956, the Relief Society at the Ogden Branch called Lucy a theology instructor. She taught this class faithfully for three years despite the demands on her time and energy from outside responsibilities (Ogden Branch records; Kenneth L. Kinner, personal communication, July 27, 2011).
President Max W. Woodbury of Ogden Branch frequently asked Lucy to interpret for speakers. In 1946, President Woodbury requested that Lucy serve as President of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association (YWMIA) at the Ogden Branch for the Deaf. She served faithfully for twenty-three years. On November 5, 1956, the Relief Society at the Ogden Branch called Lucy a theology instructor. She taught this class faithfully for three years despite the demands on her time and energy from outside responsibilities (Ogden Branch records; Kenneth L. Kinner, personal communication, July 27, 2011).
Lucy Pearl McMills & Virgil Rogers Greenwood. Source: FamilySearch.org
Lucy's demand as an interpreter, chorister, substitute teacher, substitute secretary, and various other odd jobs grew over time. She interpreted for numerous young Deaf couples married at the temple. She also interpreted for several Deaf people working in the temple. She was also an interpreter at Weber College (later renamed Weber State University) (LPMG Biography). Lucy served as a loyal interpreter for his classes from 1969 to 1971, according to G. Leon Curtis, a Deaf Weber College student, and provided positive advice and support. He told her that after he graduated from Weber College, she should get a special degree from this college for interpreting and learning with him for three years (G. Leon Curtis, personal communication, July 27, 2011).
Lucy became one of the first interpreters to join the newly formed Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf on October 5, 1968 (UAD Bulletin, Fall 1968). She was also one of thirteen interpreters who completed the Utah Registry of Interpreters state certification on November 16, 1975 (UAD Bulletin, April 1975). After founding the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf in 1968, Lucy gained recognition as Utah's senior interpreter in the 1970s.
Lucy has worked as an interpreter for the deaf for over forty years, primarily at the Ogden Branch. She earned a reputation for her work and became one of the first certified interpreters in the country. She was also a member of the Utah Association for the Deaf and the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (LPMG Biography). Her two daughters, Jean Greenwood Thomas and Ruth Ann Felter, later followed in her footsteps and became interpreters (UAD Bulletin, May 1992).
Lucy became one of the first interpreters to join the newly formed Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf on October 5, 1968 (UAD Bulletin, Fall 1968). She was also one of thirteen interpreters who completed the Utah Registry of Interpreters state certification on November 16, 1975 (UAD Bulletin, April 1975). After founding the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf in 1968, Lucy gained recognition as Utah's senior interpreter in the 1970s.
Lucy has worked as an interpreter for the deaf for over forty years, primarily at the Ogden Branch. She earned a reputation for her work and became one of the first certified interpreters in the country. She was also a member of the Utah Association for the Deaf and the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (LPMG Biography). Her two daughters, Jean Greenwood Thomas and Ruth Ann Felter, later followed in her footsteps and became interpreters (UAD Bulletin, May 1992).
Lucy McMills Greenwood, left, translates for Rosie Losee. Lucy is employed at the United Way to provide interpreting services for the deaf in Davis County, Utah. Source: Publication unknown
Jean, Lucy's daughter, recalls her mother, Lucy, preparing for the 1960s National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf test. Lucy changed her clothes to black, dark brown, navy blue, and other dark colors. Lucy and her sister, Eva, would talk about taking the RID test and how nervous she was, fearing she would fail. "Now, Lucy," Eva would remark, "you will pass; just be calm!" She took interpreting very seriously. She was the Utah State proctor for the RID test until around 1990, when Annette Thorup Tull, also a CODA and interpreter, asked her if she could take on that job for the state of Utah. Lucy firmly believed in the Interpreter Code of Ethics, and she talked to and educated Jean about it for many years. "Jeannie, the Deaf need to know that they have their privacy and can trust you with information about their lives that you have no right to," Lucy stated. Lucy practically dragged Jean to the interpretation classes in her diapers. For many years, Jean went to courses with her mother every Saturday. Jean recalls sitting in a wide circle with numerous CODAs, including Dr. Robert G. Sanderson's sons, Gary and Barry. "It was historic to have Bob Sanderson in charge of the training," she said, "and the training was marvelous." Jean has pleasant recollections of collaborating with her mother to interpret. She came to value her mother's background and the legacy she had left for interpreters everywhere (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, July 15, 2015).
Lucy was an officer and member of the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf. She was instrumental in developing the state of Utah's first sign language interpreting certification. She also worked as a certification evaluator and proctor for three organizations: the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, the Interpreter Certification Board, and the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (LPMG Biography).
Lucy was an officer and member of the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf. She was instrumental in developing the state of Utah's first sign language interpreting certification. She also worked as a certification evaluator and proctor for three organizations: the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, the Interpreter Certification Board, and the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (LPMG Biography).
Lucy McMills & Virgil Greenwood and their daughter, Jean (baby), who later became an interpreter like her mother. House on Gwen Street. Source: FamilySearch.org
Lucy's work as an interpreter was primarily voluntary. The state of Utah established a budget for interpreting service fees in the late 1970s. She frequently expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to assist others. It was never a question of whether she should serve, but simply when, where, and how (LPMG Biography). Jean, Lucy's daughter, said that her mother, Lucy, interpreted from an early age until 2002. She worked as an interpreter for the Utah School for the Deaf and other community organizations until her late eighties. Lucy had huge ganglion cysts on both her hands, and she refused surgery when Jean tried to persuade her mother to have them removed because they were causing her so much pain. Lucy answered, "NO, I WILL NEVER BE ABLE TO INTERPRET OR TALK TO MY DEAF BROTHERS AND SISTERS AGAIN." She remained a certified registered member of the RID until around 2005. She loved the Utah Deaf community and referred to herself as DEAF. Jean could see Lucy had a "Deaf Heart" (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, July 15, 2015).
Lucy passed away on July 21, 2011, at the age of 91, in Rupert, Idaho, at her daughter Linda's home. After the burial in Ogden, she was laid to rest next to her husband Virgil, who passed away in August 1973, and her parents, John and Pearl McMills, at the Salt Lake City Cemetery in Salt Lake City, Utah. Also buried are her two sons, John Rogers and Charles Daniel, her sister Eva Alice McMills Prudence Fowler, and Eva's husband, Daniel E. Prudence (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, July 15, 2015).
Lucy pioneered sign language interpreting and passionately advocated for the Utah Deaf community. She was involved in numerous volunteer efforts, though including them all here is impossible. Despite the demands of raising a large family, Lucy remained dedicated to her work as an interpreter. She also committed to giving back to the Utah Deaf community, particularly the Ogden Branch for the Deaf. Her tireless efforts and selfless service are truly commendable.
Lucy passed away on July 21, 2011, at the age of 91, in Rupert, Idaho, at her daughter Linda's home. After the burial in Ogden, she was laid to rest next to her husband Virgil, who passed away in August 1973, and her parents, John and Pearl McMills, at the Salt Lake City Cemetery in Salt Lake City, Utah. Also buried are her two sons, John Rogers and Charles Daniel, her sister Eva Alice McMills Prudence Fowler, and Eva's husband, Daniel E. Prudence (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, July 15, 2015).
Lucy pioneered sign language interpreting and passionately advocated for the Utah Deaf community. She was involved in numerous volunteer efforts, though including them all here is impossible. Despite the demands of raising a large family, Lucy remained dedicated to her work as an interpreter. She also committed to giving back to the Utah Deaf community, particularly the Ogden Branch for the Deaf. Her tireless efforts and selfless service are truly commendable.
Lucy McMills Greenwood
Notes
G. Leon Curtis, personal communication, July 27, 2011.
Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, June 11, 2015.
Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, July 15, 2015.
Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, April 9, 2019.
Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, August 18, 2024
Kenneth L. Kinner, personal communication, July 27, 2011.
Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, June 11, 2015.
Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, July 15, 2015.
Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, April 9, 2019.
Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, August 18, 2024
Kenneth L. Kinner, personal communication, July 27, 2011.
References
Biography of Lucy Pearl McMills Greenwood, March 1973.
Felter, Ann. “Five Generations.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 15, no. 12 (May 1992): 2.
“Local News: Lucy Greenwood.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 35.023 (August 2011): 3.
Ogden Branch records.
“Organization of Utah Registry of Interpreter for the Deaf.” The UAD Bulletin, vol. 5, no. 3 (Fall 1968): 1.
“Salt Shaker.” UAD Bulletin, vol.7, no. 4 (February 1972): 4.
“URID Certifies Interpreters in Workshop.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 10, no. 1 (April 1975): 1.
Felter, Ann. “Five Generations.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 15, no. 12 (May 1992): 2.
“Local News: Lucy Greenwood.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 35.023 (August 2011): 3.
Ogden Branch records.
“Organization of Utah Registry of Interpreter for the Deaf.” The UAD Bulletin, vol. 5, no. 3 (Fall 1968): 1.
“Salt Shaker.” UAD Bulletin, vol.7, no. 4 (February 1972): 4.
“URID Certifies Interpreters in Workshop.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 10, no. 1 (April 1975): 1.
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell was a remarkable woman who achieved the distinction of becoming the first nationally certified Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) interpreter in Utah and the United States in 1965. From that point on, she became a pioneer in interpreting. Beth Ann was the first hearing woman to be elected to the Board of Directors of the Utah Association for the Deaf, and she also coined the term "co-therapist" as the first interpreter to work with both the psychiatrist and the patient. She was appointed Director of the Utah Community Center for the Deaf in Bountiful, Utah, in 1985, and she went above and beyond in delivering excellent community service for many years. Her contributions had a significant impact on Deaf-related services and the interpreting system. Beth Ann's achievement of being the first nationally certified interpreter in Utah and the United States is a great honor for the Utah Deaf community and the Utah interpreting community.
Beth Stewart Ann Campbell
Beth Ann Moon Stewart Campbell was born on December 9, 1937, at Murray Maternity Hospital to Deaf parents Arnold Moon and Zelma Lindquist. Beth Ann, also known as "B.A.," is a prominent figure in the Utah Deaf community (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, March 1992). Arnold Henry Moon, Beth Ann's father, was born on March 7, 1905, in Woodland, Utah. Beth Ann and her family believe he was born Deaf. At the age of six, Arnold enrolled at the Utah School for the Deaf (USD) in Ogden, Utah. Arnold's mother supported him and helped him with his studies. He graduated from the USD in 1928 and worked as a shoe repairman. Beth Ann believes he learned shoe repair while attending the Utah School for the Deaf. Arnold was also a skilled basketball player for the school (Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
Zelma Lindquist was born in West Jordan, Utah, on January 6, 1908. She was born with measles and contracted diphtheria when she was two, which caused her to become Deaf. When she was two and a half years old, her parents enrolled her at the Utah School for the Deaf, and she graduated from the school in 1928. Zelma was an excellent seamstress, and it is believed that she studied sewing at the school, according to Beth Ann Stewart Campbell (personal communication, September 18, 2012). During that time, students at the Utah School for the Deaf only went home during holidays throughout the year, and they were taught regular academic subjects and homemaking skills. They learned essential skills such as cleaning, sewing, and cooking while they were there.
Zelma Lindquist was born in West Jordan, Utah, on January 6, 1908. She was born with measles and contracted diphtheria when she was two, which caused her to become Deaf. When she was two and a half years old, her parents enrolled her at the Utah School for the Deaf, and she graduated from the school in 1928. Zelma was an excellent seamstress, and it is believed that she studied sewing at the school, according to Beth Ann Stewart Campbell (personal communication, September 18, 2012). During that time, students at the Utah School for the Deaf only went home during holidays throughout the year, and they were taught regular academic subjects and homemaking skills. They learned essential skills such as cleaning, sewing, and cooking while they were there.
Marjorie, Arnold, Zelma and Beth Ann Moon, 1972
The Utah School for the Deaf had many Deaf students, which facilitated them to form lifelong friendships. Arnold and Zelma met at this school and began dating. They married on June 19, 1929. They initially lived in Hanna, Utah, where they tragically lost their two older sons, Delbert and Deloy. They later moved to Salt Lake City, Utah, where they found better employment opportunities and social connections with other Deaf individuals. Beth Ann, their daughter, grew up in a hardworking family and was provided for by her parents, alongside her older sister, Marjorie. "Sign language" was Beth Ann's primary language, which she learned from her parents at home while also picking up English from her playmates, the radio, and her relatives. She has no recollection of not being able to sign or speak English and enjoyed spending time with other friends (Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, personal conversation, September 18, 2012).
As a hearing child of Deaf parents, Beth Ann had the responsibility to assist them with interpreting, as was customary for hearing children of Deaf parents at the time. She went above and beyond what her older sister did, making phone calls for her parents. Because they didn't have a phone at the time, she had to go to her neighbors and ask if she could use their phone to make doctor appointments, get medicine, and take care of other things. Sometimes, she felt embarrassed when making certain adult phone calls at her neighbor's house while everyone was listening in on what would normally be considered a "private conversation." She dislikes using the phone now because she felt forced to use it as a child and young adult (Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
As a hearing child of Deaf parents, Beth Ann had the responsibility to assist them with interpreting, as was customary for hearing children of Deaf parents at the time. She went above and beyond what her older sister did, making phone calls for her parents. Because they didn't have a phone at the time, she had to go to her neighbors and ask if she could use their phone to make doctor appointments, get medicine, and take care of other things. Sometimes, she felt embarrassed when making certain adult phone calls at her neighbor's house while everyone was listening in on what would normally be considered a "private conversation." She dislikes using the phone now because she felt forced to use it as a child and young adult (Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell. Source: UAD Bulletin, Winter 1970
Beth Ann is recognized as the first nationally certified interpreter by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) in both Utah and the United States. Her journey as an interpreter began unexpectedly when her first husband, Wayne Stewart, a police officer, asked her to help in a stressful situation due to a shortage of interpreters. She was called to interpret for a Deaf man from Colorado who had been mistreated by the Salt Lake City Police Department. The man had been handcuffed and left alone in a cell, which made it difficult for him to communicate effectively. Understandably, he was frightened and confused.
Although feeling scared herself, Beth Ann bravely entered the police station, where she found the Deaf man chained and terrified. The police left her alone with him, but together, they managed to find a way to communicate effectively, allowing her to assist him (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992; Beth Ann Stewart Campbell Interview, YouTube, October 15, 2010). With Beth Ann there to interpret, it was determined that the man needed to pay a fee, and he was released. This first experience interpreting beyond her home demonstrated her extraordinary courage and determination. It also highlighted the emotional challenges that interpreters often face, such as the need to respond quickly under pressure, the difficulty of witnessing mistreatment, and the emotional burden these situations can create. This understanding of the emotional toll of interpreting emphasizes the resilience and strength of interpreters, fostering a sense of respect and empathy from the interpreting community.
Although feeling scared herself, Beth Ann bravely entered the police station, where she found the Deaf man chained and terrified. The police left her alone with him, but together, they managed to find a way to communicate effectively, allowing her to assist him (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992; Beth Ann Stewart Campbell Interview, YouTube, October 15, 2010). With Beth Ann there to interpret, it was determined that the man needed to pay a fee, and he was released. This first experience interpreting beyond her home demonstrated her extraordinary courage and determination. It also highlighted the emotional challenges that interpreters often face, such as the need to respond quickly under pressure, the difficulty of witnessing mistreatment, and the emotional burden these situations can create. This understanding of the emotional toll of interpreting emphasizes the resilience and strength of interpreters, fostering a sense of respect and empathy from the interpreting community.
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, 1973
In 1964, Dr. Sanderson, a respected figure in the Deaf community of Utah, attended a workshop in Indiana titled "Interpreting for the Deaf" as a consultant. This workshop brought together Deaf professionals, Children of Deaf Adults (CODA), and interpreters. After the workshop, Dr. Sanderson reached out to Deaf parents in Utah, encouraging them to inform their adult CODA children about an upcoming interpreting conference in Utah focused on educating and training future interpreters (UAD Bulletin, Spring 1964).
Beth Ann's mother showed her Dr. Sanderson's flyer for the conference, which aimed to recruit and train interpreters in Utah. Her mother encouraged Beth Ann, who had six children at the time, to attend the conference. At the conference, Beth Ann had the opportunity to see an interpreter in action for the first time. Although she had used sign language her entire life, this experience was a turning point, enabling her to distinguish between communication and interpreting. It was an eye-opening event for her, and she never imagined that she would one day become an interpreter (Beth Ann Stewart Campbell Interview, YouTube, October 15, 2010). This workshop provided her with valuable insights into the interpreting profession and connected her with influential figures, such as Dr. Sanderson.
Beth Ann's life changed forever when Bob Sanderson, who had her name on his conference participant list, contacted her to interpret for him in court. She agreed to help and attended the hearing. This experience sparked her passion for interpreting, leading her to dedicate herself to advocating for the Deaf community in Utah (Beth Ann Stewart Campbell Interview, YouTube, October 15, 2010). Her advocacy work is not just a mission but a crucial one that has a significant impact on the lives of the Utah Deaf community, making them feel heard and understood. Her efforts have not only improved access to services for Deaf individuals but also raised awareness about the importance of interpreters in ensuring effective communication for the Deaf.
Another pivotal moment came in 1965 when Dr. Sanderson encouraged Beth Ann to take the national certification exam administered by the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf in Illinois. She was the only participant from Utah. The order in which candidates were tested was determined by drawing numbers from a bowl, which added to the pressure of the situation. During the drawing process, the woman sitting next to Beth Ann drew out number 1, and Beth Ann drew out the highest number. The woman expressed her reluctance to be the first to take the test. Beth Ann recognized the significance of this opportunity and the responsibility that came with it. She told the other woman that she did not want to be the last one to take the test. They agreed to switch numbers. After exchanging numbers, Beth Ann, with unwavering determination, took the test first and ultimately passed it. Thus, Beth Ann became the first nationally certified interpreter in Utah and the United States (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992; Beth Ann Stewart Campbell Interview, YouTube, October 15, 2010; Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012). This experience highlights the pressure and challenges interpreters face during their testing process, as well as Beth Ann's determination to overcome them. Her remarkable accomplishment highlights the transformative impact of mentorship and the necessity of seeking guidance in one's professional journey, motivating others to chase their goals with courage and determination.
Beth Ann's success marks a significant milestone that was greatly influenced by Dr. Sanderson's mentorship. His unwavering support and belief in her abilities were not only crucial but also transformative, highlighting the profound impact of mentorship on her interpreting journey. His guidance not only shaped her career but also had a lasting impact on the interpreting profession, establishing a standard for mentorship in the field. Inspired by her experiences, Beth Ann later became a mentor herself, demonstrating the profound influence that guidance can have on others. Beth Ann described Dr. Sanderson as her mentor and teacher, noting that he was patient, kind, and an exceptional boss (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992). Dr. Sanderson referred to her as his "long-suffering and patient interpreter and colleague," also recognizing her as a tenacious advocate for the Deaf who was always ready to help (Sanderson, 2004). His guidance shaped Beth Ann's career and inspired many aspiring interpreters, showcasing the potential for growth within the profession. Dr. Sanderson's influence on her journey demonstrates the benefits of mentorship in achieving success in interpreting.
Since earning her certification in 1965, Beth Ann has been a trailblazer in the field of interpreting. Her accomplishment marks a significant milestone, showcasing her courage, determination, and the respect she has earned within the profession. She has also raised awareness about the crucial role of interpreters in the Utah Deaf community and has paved the way for future professionals in the field. This achievement is not only a personal success but also a notable milestone for both the Deaf community and the interpreting profession—a source of pride and inspiration for many in these communities.
Beth Ann earned her first certification just one year after the official recognition of the National Registry of Interpreters of the Deaf, which was established in 1964 and incorporated in 1972. Her success opened doors for future interpreters and played a vital role in advancing the growth and recognition of the interpreting profession.
Throughout her career, Beth Ann has worked closely with Deaf individuals, providing interpretation services in various settings, including the legislature, courts, mental health facilities, medical facilities, and higher education institutions. Notably, she was the first interpreter at the University of Utah. Additionally, she worked full-time for the Utah Division of Rehabilitation and volunteered as an interpreter for the evening news on television from 1971 to 1980. Her commitment to the Deaf community in Utah extended beyond interpretation; she also provided advocacy and support, further highlighting her dedication.
Beth Ann has made significant contributions to the Utah Deaf community and the interpreting profession, greatly enhancing the recognition and understanding of interpreting while highlighting Dr. Sanderson's lasting impact in the field. Her dedication has inspired the interpreting community and demonstrated the power that transforms effective communication, improving access to essential services and enriching the quality of life for countless Deaf individuals.
As a passionate advocate for the Utah Deaf community, Beth Ann has earned immense respect and admiration for her accomplishments. Utah is fortunate to have her as the first certified interpreter in the United States. Her pioneering role has opened doors for future interpreters, ensuring that the voices of Deaf individuals are heard, understood, and valued.
Beth Ann's mother showed her Dr. Sanderson's flyer for the conference, which aimed to recruit and train interpreters in Utah. Her mother encouraged Beth Ann, who had six children at the time, to attend the conference. At the conference, Beth Ann had the opportunity to see an interpreter in action for the first time. Although she had used sign language her entire life, this experience was a turning point, enabling her to distinguish between communication and interpreting. It was an eye-opening event for her, and she never imagined that she would one day become an interpreter (Beth Ann Stewart Campbell Interview, YouTube, October 15, 2010). This workshop provided her with valuable insights into the interpreting profession and connected her with influential figures, such as Dr. Sanderson.
Beth Ann's life changed forever when Bob Sanderson, who had her name on his conference participant list, contacted her to interpret for him in court. She agreed to help and attended the hearing. This experience sparked her passion for interpreting, leading her to dedicate herself to advocating for the Deaf community in Utah (Beth Ann Stewart Campbell Interview, YouTube, October 15, 2010). Her advocacy work is not just a mission but a crucial one that has a significant impact on the lives of the Utah Deaf community, making them feel heard and understood. Her efforts have not only improved access to services for Deaf individuals but also raised awareness about the importance of interpreters in ensuring effective communication for the Deaf.
Another pivotal moment came in 1965 when Dr. Sanderson encouraged Beth Ann to take the national certification exam administered by the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf in Illinois. She was the only participant from Utah. The order in which candidates were tested was determined by drawing numbers from a bowl, which added to the pressure of the situation. During the drawing process, the woman sitting next to Beth Ann drew out number 1, and Beth Ann drew out the highest number. The woman expressed her reluctance to be the first to take the test. Beth Ann recognized the significance of this opportunity and the responsibility that came with it. She told the other woman that she did not want to be the last one to take the test. They agreed to switch numbers. After exchanging numbers, Beth Ann, with unwavering determination, took the test first and ultimately passed it. Thus, Beth Ann became the first nationally certified interpreter in Utah and the United States (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992; Beth Ann Stewart Campbell Interview, YouTube, October 15, 2010; Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012). This experience highlights the pressure and challenges interpreters face during their testing process, as well as Beth Ann's determination to overcome them. Her remarkable accomplishment highlights the transformative impact of mentorship and the necessity of seeking guidance in one's professional journey, motivating others to chase their goals with courage and determination.
Beth Ann's success marks a significant milestone that was greatly influenced by Dr. Sanderson's mentorship. His unwavering support and belief in her abilities were not only crucial but also transformative, highlighting the profound impact of mentorship on her interpreting journey. His guidance not only shaped her career but also had a lasting impact on the interpreting profession, establishing a standard for mentorship in the field. Inspired by her experiences, Beth Ann later became a mentor herself, demonstrating the profound influence that guidance can have on others. Beth Ann described Dr. Sanderson as her mentor and teacher, noting that he was patient, kind, and an exceptional boss (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992). Dr. Sanderson referred to her as his "long-suffering and patient interpreter and colleague," also recognizing her as a tenacious advocate for the Deaf who was always ready to help (Sanderson, 2004). His guidance shaped Beth Ann's career and inspired many aspiring interpreters, showcasing the potential for growth within the profession. Dr. Sanderson's influence on her journey demonstrates the benefits of mentorship in achieving success in interpreting.
Since earning her certification in 1965, Beth Ann has been a trailblazer in the field of interpreting. Her accomplishment marks a significant milestone, showcasing her courage, determination, and the respect she has earned within the profession. She has also raised awareness about the crucial role of interpreters in the Utah Deaf community and has paved the way for future professionals in the field. This achievement is not only a personal success but also a notable milestone for both the Deaf community and the interpreting profession—a source of pride and inspiration for many in these communities.
Beth Ann earned her first certification just one year after the official recognition of the National Registry of Interpreters of the Deaf, which was established in 1964 and incorporated in 1972. Her success opened doors for future interpreters and played a vital role in advancing the growth and recognition of the interpreting profession.
Throughout her career, Beth Ann has worked closely with Deaf individuals, providing interpretation services in various settings, including the legislature, courts, mental health facilities, medical facilities, and higher education institutions. Notably, she was the first interpreter at the University of Utah. Additionally, she worked full-time for the Utah Division of Rehabilitation and volunteered as an interpreter for the evening news on television from 1971 to 1980. Her commitment to the Deaf community in Utah extended beyond interpretation; she also provided advocacy and support, further highlighting her dedication.
Beth Ann has made significant contributions to the Utah Deaf community and the interpreting profession, greatly enhancing the recognition and understanding of interpreting while highlighting Dr. Sanderson's lasting impact in the field. Her dedication has inspired the interpreting community and demonstrated the power that transforms effective communication, improving access to essential services and enriching the quality of life for countless Deaf individuals.
As a passionate advocate for the Utah Deaf community, Beth Ann has earned immense respect and admiration for her accomplishments. Utah is fortunate to have her as the first certified interpreter in the United States. Her pioneering role has opened doors for future interpreters, ensuring that the voices of Deaf individuals are heard, understood, and valued.
Dr. Sanderson meets Beth Ann Stewart Campbell in a pleasant encounter at the large renaming celebration in honor of Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, a leader in the Utah Deaf community October 4, 2003
Outside of the interpreting role, Beth Ann also played a pivotal role in the Utah Association for the Deaf (UAD). She was one of the first hearing individuals to join the UAD when the association changed its name from "of" to "for" in 1963. This change not only allowed hearing individuals to serve on the board but also demonstrated a commitment to inclusivity (UAD Bulletin, Spring 1963). In the March 1992 issue of the UAD Bulletin, Dr. Jay J. Campbell noted that "Beth Ann is well known in the UAD." When W. David Mortensen was initially appointed as UAD president in 1971, she was assigned as his secretary and continued to serve as an active board member for many years (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, March 1992).
On October 5, 1968, Beth Ann was one of the interpreters who helped establish the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, where she was elected as secretary (UAD Bulletin, Fall 1968).
In 1970, W. David "Dave" Mortensen, a leader in the Deaf community in Utah and the long-time president of the Utah Association for the Deaf, was studying at the University of Utah. During this time, he needed a part-time interpreter, so Beth Ann, a freelance interpreter, was hired to assist him. This marked a significant milestone as it was the first time the university had employed an interpreter for a student, with Beth Ann being the pioneer in this role. Initially, both Beth Ann and Dave were quite nervous about the situation, but they became more at ease as time passed. With her courage and determination, Beth Ann Campbell became the first interpreter to support Dave at the university (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992; Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
In 1972, Beth Ann worked as a freelance interpreter for the Utah Division of Rehabilitation. At that time, Dr. Sanderson, who was the Coordinator of Deaf Adult Services under the Utah Division of Rehabilitation, needed a full-time interpreter. He invited Beth Ann to meet with him and offered her a job. Although she enjoyed her position with W. David Mortensen, Beth Ann asked Dr. Sanderson if she could manage both jobs. He explained that she would need to leave her job with Dave if she wanted to work for him full-time. As a result, Beth Ann made the decision to accept the full-time position with Dr. Sanderson. Her commitment to her work was steadfast, and her main responsibility was to assist him with interpretations and accompany him to all the necessary meetings (Sanderson, 2004).
On October 5, 1968, Beth Ann was one of the interpreters who helped establish the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, where she was elected as secretary (UAD Bulletin, Fall 1968).
In 1970, W. David "Dave" Mortensen, a leader in the Deaf community in Utah and the long-time president of the Utah Association for the Deaf, was studying at the University of Utah. During this time, he needed a part-time interpreter, so Beth Ann, a freelance interpreter, was hired to assist him. This marked a significant milestone as it was the first time the university had employed an interpreter for a student, with Beth Ann being the pioneer in this role. Initially, both Beth Ann and Dave were quite nervous about the situation, but they became more at ease as time passed. With her courage and determination, Beth Ann Campbell became the first interpreter to support Dave at the university (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992; Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
In 1972, Beth Ann worked as a freelance interpreter for the Utah Division of Rehabilitation. At that time, Dr. Sanderson, who was the Coordinator of Deaf Adult Services under the Utah Division of Rehabilitation, needed a full-time interpreter. He invited Beth Ann to meet with him and offered her a job. Although she enjoyed her position with W. David Mortensen, Beth Ann asked Dr. Sanderson if she could manage both jobs. He explained that she would need to leave her job with Dave if she wanted to work for him full-time. As a result, Beth Ann made the decision to accept the full-time position with Dr. Sanderson. Her commitment to her work was steadfast, and her main responsibility was to assist him with interpretations and accompany him to all the necessary meetings (Sanderson, 2004).
Officers of the Utah Association for the Deaf, 1971. Front row L-R:: Jerry Taylor, treasurer, Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, secretary, Lloyd Perkins, vice president, David Mortensen, president, Ned Wheeler, chairman. Back row L-R: Robert Welsh, Leon Curtis, Kenneth Burdett, Dennis Platt, Gene Stewart, Robert Sanderson
In 1966, Dr. Jay J. Campbell was hired by the Utah State Board of Education as an associate superintendent with the Utah State Office of Education. One of his responsibilities was to oversee the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind. During the debate over oral versus total communication, he grew concerned with the welfare of Deaf children (Campbell, 1977). W. David Mortensen, president of the Utah Association for the Deaf, invited Dr. Campbell to speak at the UAD convention in January 1973. He asked Beth Ann, who was then UAD secretary, to assist him in interpreting. Beth Ann and Dave visited with Dr. Campbell, and he agreed to speak at the convention six months later. Dr. Campbell decided to give his presentation in sign language, so he asked Dr. Sanderson, Beth Ann's boss if someone could teach him enough signs to deliver his speech. Dr. Sanderson appointed Beth Ann to teach him. She accepted the challenge and became great friends with Dr. Campbell (Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012). Dr. Campbell delivered his full "Humanizing Education" speech in sign language at the 25th Biennial Convention on June 16, 1973. "I presented a ten-minute talk that took me 30 minutes to deliver in signs," he said (Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
Dr. Jay J. Campbell signing his speech “Humanizing Education” and Beth Ann Stewart signing her rendition in signs of “I.” There Be Peace on Earth at convention banquet. Source: UAD Bulletin, November 1973
Three years later, on March 20, 1976, Dr. Campbell and Beth Ann were married by their local bishop and were sealed in the Manti Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on September 5, 1981. Beth Ann's children are Mark, Dennis, Steve, Michael, Michelle (Brown), and Gregory. Jay's children are Candice, John, Tamara, Woodrow, and Nola. Beth Ann has nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Jay has twelve grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. When people ask how many children they have, they answer, "Five and a half dozen." They then explain that "Jay has five, and Beth Ann has a half dozen." Their children are from their first marriages (Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell and Jay J. Campbell, 1987. Photo: Robert L. Bonnell
Beth Ann's interpreting tasks grew significantly over time. According to "The Deaf Education History in Utah," during the rapid growth of the oral and mainstreaming movements and the decline of sign language in the educational system in the 1970s, Beth Ann often assisted Dr. Sanderson and W. David Mortensen, Deaf Education Advocates, with interpreting. They fought relentlessly against those who advocated for oral Deaf education methods. Dr. Campbell, then the associate superintendent, published "Education of the Deaf in Utah: A Comprehensive Study" in 1977 to address the ongoing controversy over oral vs. total communication. However, this result sparked debate among parents who campaigned for oral education. As a result, Dr. Campbell's plan came crashing down. His two-year study, which included recommendations for improving education through fair assessment and placement procedures, was buried and forgotten (Dr. Jay J. Campbell, personal communication, July 1, 2007).
Dr. Jay J. Campbell. Source: UAD Bulletin, June 1973
Dr. Jay J. Campbell's 1977 Comprehensive Study of Deaf Education in Utah
In 1975, Beth Ann traveled to Los Angeles, California, with four Utah Deaf volunteers to serve as an interpreter while touring the Ear Research Institute, where one of the volunteers, Joseph B. Burnett, 62, received his new cochlear implant (UAD Bulletin, June 1974). Beth Ann had the opportunity to witness this moment when Joe became the world's first Deaf person to receive cochlear implants (Kinney, UAD Bulletin, November 2001; Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
Joseph B. Burnett. Source: UAD Bulletin, June 1975
From 1971 to 1980, Beth Ann volunteered as an interpreter for Channel 4 News in sign language on the right corner of the television screen. The Utah Deaf community remembered seeing her on the news (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, March 1992). A February 1972 photo from the UAD Bulletin shows Beth Ann interpreting the news.
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell interpreting the Channel 4 News, 1972. Source: UAD Bulletin, February 1972
When Dr. Sanderson retired as the director of the Utah Community Center of the Deaf (UCCD) in 1985, he noted in his book, "A Brief History of the Origins of the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing," that Beth Ann would be appointed as the new director:
"Dr. Judy Ann Buffmire, Executive Director of the Utah Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, appointed Beth Ann as Director of the Utah Community Center of the Deaf. Beth Ann had worked as a professional interpreter and aide for the Division of Rehabilitation for over 15 years and was closely associated with the Center for the Deaf programs. She was also a 'CODA' (Child of Deaf Adults) and enjoyed considerable support within the deaf community, reflecting her advocacy and activism on behalf of deaf individuals" (Sanderson, 2004).
Beth Ann served as the director of the Utah Community Center for the Deaf in Bountiful, Utah, until her retirement on March 13, 1992. Prior to her directorship, she worked as an interpreter for many years, covering courts, lawyers, doctors, therapists, meetings, and other events requiring interpretation (Emery, Davis County, & the Ogden Standard-Examiner, July 25, 1990). She also played a crucial role in helping Deaf leaders lobby for funding for the Utah Community Center for the Deaf. According to the "History of the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing" webpage, Beth Ann's assistance with interpreting was essential in overcoming communication barriers and securing funds for the center during the legislative process.
"Dr. Judy Ann Buffmire, Executive Director of the Utah Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, appointed Beth Ann as Director of the Utah Community Center of the Deaf. Beth Ann had worked as a professional interpreter and aide for the Division of Rehabilitation for over 15 years and was closely associated with the Center for the Deaf programs. She was also a 'CODA' (Child of Deaf Adults) and enjoyed considerable support within the deaf community, reflecting her advocacy and activism on behalf of deaf individuals" (Sanderson, 2004).
Beth Ann served as the director of the Utah Community Center for the Deaf in Bountiful, Utah, until her retirement on March 13, 1992. Prior to her directorship, she worked as an interpreter for many years, covering courts, lawyers, doctors, therapists, meetings, and other events requiring interpretation (Emery, Davis County, & the Ogden Standard-Examiner, July 25, 1990). She also played a crucial role in helping Deaf leaders lobby for funding for the Utah Community Center for the Deaf. According to the "History of the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing" webpage, Beth Ann's assistance with interpreting was essential in overcoming communication barriers and securing funds for the center during the legislative process.
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, Director of the Utah Center for the Deaf, 1985 – 1989
As the director, Beth Ann committed herself to providing various educational classes and social events at the Utah Community Center for the Deaf. This diverse array of activities ensured that American Sign Language (ASL) was accessible to everyone in the Utah Deaf community, as follows:
- Cooking Classes. Many of the young Deaf mothers had very little experience in this area. UCCD brought in people from the community to teach cooking classes of all kinds.
- Income Tax Preparation. Experts in this field were solicited, and they gave of their time without pay to teach the deaf how to prepare their tax returns.
- Women on Target. Beth Ann conducted this class. Most Deaf women wanted to improve their parenting and social skills. These classes became very popular.
- Lectures. Beth Ann went to the public and asked professional people to come and speak to Deaf consumers. They covered any subjects that the Deaf wanted. She was truly surprised and happy to see how many "hearing" people were willing to come and offer their expertise to the deaf.
- Athletic Events. Deaf people loved athletics.
- Senior Citizen Lunches and Outings. The staff at the Center prepared a monthly luncheon for their senior citizens. This was a popular event, and a big turnout occurred monthly.
- Parenting Classes. Young married couples were more than pleased to have classes available to learn how to be effective parents.
- Socials. It was probably the most successful thing they did during Beth Ann's tenure. Under her leadership, the staff would recommend a theme for an upcoming social and then turn it over to the deaf to plan, set up committees to paint decorations (They had several great artists), build booths, advertise, and put on these social events. It was always a great event, and the Deaf community supported these socials. There was always good food, and sometimes dancing.
- Utah Organizations. Beth Ann coordinated with the Utah Organizations to send out a yearly calendar of activities throughout the state.
- Monthly Newsletter. This was published and distributed throughout the state to keep the Utah Deaf community informed of the activities at the UCCD and other things of interest to the deaf.
- Money Contributions. There was a need to raise money for things needed at the Center. As the spokesman for the Center, Beth Ann asked many organizations to contribute money to help purchase needed items. They raised approximately $80,000, and the Telephone Company painted the building and fixed the bathroom.
Utah Community Center for the Deaf in Bountiful Utah, 1983. Pencil drawing by Robert Winkelkotter
During her time working for Dr. Sanderson and later as director of the Utah Community Center for the Deaf, Beth Ann received the following awards:
- Division of Rehabilitation Services, 1986. For Exemplary Program Continuation and Development on Behalf of Deaf/Hearing Impaired People of Utah. Presented to Beth Ann Campbell.
- Golden Key Award. October 7, 1987. Beth Ann Campbell, Service Provider. For Your Exemplary Service to Persons Who Are Deaf. Your Dedication Has Resulted in Increased Independence and Productivity By These Citizens With Disabilities. Presented by the Utah Governor's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped.
- Golden Hand Award, 1989. Presented to Beth Ann Campbell in recognition and appreciation of dedicated and meritorious service on behalf of the Utah Deaf community (This award meant the most to Beth Ann because it came from the "deaf")
- Earl Conder Award, June 28, 1990. Governor Norm Bangerter presented this award to Utah's "State Employee of the Year. 1989". She received a plaque and a $1,000 U. S. Savings Bond in recognition of going the extra mile in serving the Deaf and the public. Governor Bangeter said: "Beth Ann Campbell has enhanced the cause of the Deaf community almost since childhood" (UAD Bulletin, July/August 1990).
- Kim Maibaum Lifetime Achievement Award at the UTRID banquet on August 8, 2014. Presented the award to Beth Ann Stewart Campbell for her outstanding contributions to the Utah Interpreting and Utah Deaf community. She was the "first" interpreter in many of our community's settings, paving the path for those who came after her. Because of the efforts of people like Beth Ann, we are all where we are today.
Last but not least, Beth Ann has many "firsts" under her list of accomplishments, which include:
• First Nationally Certified Professional Interpreter in Utah and the United States (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, March 1992; Emery, Davis County & Ogden Standard-Examiner, July 25, 1990).
• First hearing female to be voted as a member of the Utah Association for the Deaf Board of Directors and
• The first interpreter to develop the concept of co-therapist for interpreting for both psychiatrist and patient (Emery, Davis County, & Ogden Standard-Examiner, July 25, 1990; UAD Bulletin, July/August 1990).
Beth Ann retired after serving on the UAD Board for many years. In the April 1992 issue of the UAD Bulletin, she expressed her positive feelings about the association and its impact on the Deaf community in Utah. She developed close relationships with many board members and wished them well in their future endeavors.
After retiring, Beth Ann and Jay enjoyed escorting Deaf and hearing visitors on cruises and bus tours. They also served as full-time missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Family and Church History Mission for one year, beginning January 3, 2003. Then, they worked as missionaries at the Utah State Prison from March 2004 to July 22, 2009. To keep themselves busy, they spent their time reading, doing church work, and participating in the Utah Daughters of the Pioneers. Jay directed the "Swanee Singers" and traveled for this purpose (Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
• First Nationally Certified Professional Interpreter in Utah and the United States (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, March 1992; Emery, Davis County & Ogden Standard-Examiner, July 25, 1990).
• First hearing female to be voted as a member of the Utah Association for the Deaf Board of Directors and
• The first interpreter to develop the concept of co-therapist for interpreting for both psychiatrist and patient (Emery, Davis County, & Ogden Standard-Examiner, July 25, 1990; UAD Bulletin, July/August 1990).
Beth Ann retired after serving on the UAD Board for many years. In the April 1992 issue of the UAD Bulletin, she expressed her positive feelings about the association and its impact on the Deaf community in Utah. She developed close relationships with many board members and wished them well in their future endeavors.
After retiring, Beth Ann and Jay enjoyed escorting Deaf and hearing visitors on cruises and bus tours. They also served as full-time missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Family and Church History Mission for one year, beginning January 3, 2003. Then, they worked as missionaries at the Utah State Prison from March 2004 to July 22, 2009. To keep themselves busy, they spent their time reading, doing church work, and participating in the Utah Daughters of the Pioneers. Jay directed the "Swanee Singers" and traveled for this purpose (Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, 1980s. Photo: Robert L. Bonnell
It is an honor for both the Utah Deaf community and the Utah interpreting community to have Beth Ann as the first nationally certified interpreter in the state and country. Beth Ann is highly regarded for her exceptional service to the Utah Deaf community, where she worked as an interpreter and director. Her efforts have had a profound impact on the structures and services within the Utah Deaf community, significantly improving the accessibility and quality of services for the Deaf community in Utah. Her dedication has markedly contributed to their continued success.
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, the nation's first interpreter, receives the Kim Maibaum Lifetime Achievement Award during the UTRID banquet on August 8, 2014. She is standing next to Courtney LaDue, President of UTRID
Notes
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, September 18, 2012.
Dr. Jay J. Campbell, personal communication, July 1, 2007.
Dr. Jay J. Campbell, personal communication, July 1, 2007.
References
“Awards & Honors.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 14, no. 2/3 (July/August 1990): 11.
"Beth Ann Stewart Campbell" YouTube, October 15, 2010.
Campbell, J.J. Education of the Deaf in Utah: A comprehensive study. Utah State Board of Education. Office of Administration and Institution Services. On reserve, Utah State Achieves: Series 8556, 1977.
Campbell, Jay. “Beth Ann Resigns as Director of UCCD.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 15, no. 10 (March 1992): 1.
Campbell, Jay. “Beth Ann Reminisces.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 15, no. 11 (April 1992): 4.
“Convention Speaker, J.J.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 8, no. 3 (June 1973): 1.
Emery, Michelle. "Campbell earns award." Ogden Standard-Examiner (July 25, 1990): 5.
Emery, Michell. "Campbell earns award." Davis County. (July 25, 1990: 13.
“Interpreters Workshop Planned.” The UAD Bulletin, vol. 3, no. 3 (Spring 1964): 4.
Kinney, Valerie. “Utah Deaf Trivia.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 25.6 (November 2001): 2.
“Organization of Utah Registry of Interpreter for the Deaf.” The UAD Bulletin, vol. 5, no. 3 (Fall 1968): 1.
Sanderson, Robert. G. A Brief History of the Origins of the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. March 9, 2004.
“Utah Deaf Lead Nation in Ear Research.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 9, no. 3 (June 1974): 2. “What’s in A Name?” The UAD Bulletin, vol. 2, no. 9 (Spring 1963): 2.
"Beth Ann Stewart Campbell" YouTube, October 15, 2010.
Campbell, J.J. Education of the Deaf in Utah: A comprehensive study. Utah State Board of Education. Office of Administration and Institution Services. On reserve, Utah State Achieves: Series 8556, 1977.
Campbell, Jay. “Beth Ann Resigns as Director of UCCD.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 15, no. 10 (March 1992): 1.
Campbell, Jay. “Beth Ann Reminisces.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 15, no. 11 (April 1992): 4.
“Convention Speaker, J.J.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 8, no. 3 (June 1973): 1.
Emery, Michelle. "Campbell earns award." Ogden Standard-Examiner (July 25, 1990): 5.
Emery, Michell. "Campbell earns award." Davis County. (July 25, 1990: 13.
“Interpreters Workshop Planned.” The UAD Bulletin, vol. 3, no. 3 (Spring 1964): 4.
Kinney, Valerie. “Utah Deaf Trivia.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 25.6 (November 2001): 2.
“Organization of Utah Registry of Interpreter for the Deaf.” The UAD Bulletin, vol. 5, no. 3 (Fall 1968): 1.
Sanderson, Robert. G. A Brief History of the Origins of the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. March 9, 2004.
“Utah Deaf Lead Nation in Ear Research.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 9, no. 3 (June 1974): 2. “What’s in A Name?” The UAD Bulletin, vol. 2, no. 9 (Spring 1963): 2.
Jean Greenwood Thomas
Jean Greenwood Thomas is the daughter of Lucy McMills Greenwood. Through her pioneering efforts, Utah became the first state to offer American Sign Language classes in high schools in 1989. She, as a dedicated sign language interpreter, played a pivotal role in achieving this milestone through her pioneering efforts. Her passionate vision quickly gained popularity, and other states followed suit by incorporating ASL into their high school curricula. Jean was also an active member of the 1993 State Legislature Study Group. This group was responsible for establishing a formal interpreter training program and recognizing American Sign Language (ASL) as a foreign language in school settings. Jean's efforts also included lobbying for regulations that prevented unqualified individuals from teaching ASL in high school programs. During the 1994 Utah legislative session, Jean had network access to key members of the State Legislature Study Group, and she was a key advocate for two bills: Senate Bill 41, which certified interpreters, and Senate Bill 42, which granted ASL the same status as a foreign language. Her persistent lobbying efforts led to the successful passage of both bills.
Jean Greenwood Thomas, 2020
Jean Greenwood Thomas was born to Virgil Rogers Greenwood, a Deaf father, and Lucy Pearl McMills, a hearing mother and the Child of a Deaf Adults (CODA) in 1953. Her father attended the Utah School for the Deaf (USD) in Ogden, Utah. He left school for work in 1931, as was common for USD students at the time.
Jean's parents raised her in the Utah Deaf community. Jean also has several Deaf relatives. She had a Deaf aunt, Gloria Greenwood Barney, and a Deaf uncle, Stewart Greenwood. Ruth Felter, one of her sisters, also worked as an interpreter. Lucy had a sister, Eva, who worked as an interpreter, mostly for the Salt Lake Valley 1st Ward for the Deaf of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Valerie G. Kinney, a respected member of the Utah Association for the Deaf, shared that Jean's mother, Lucy, played a pivotal role in inspiring Jean's career path as an interpreter (Valerie G. Kinney, personal communication, January 9, 2013). This familial influence is a testament to the power of shared passion and dedication.
Jean's parents raised her in the Utah Deaf community. Jean also has several Deaf relatives. She had a Deaf aunt, Gloria Greenwood Barney, and a Deaf uncle, Stewart Greenwood. Ruth Felter, one of her sisters, also worked as an interpreter. Lucy had a sister, Eva, who worked as an interpreter, mostly for the Salt Lake Valley 1st Ward for the Deaf of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Valerie G. Kinney, a respected member of the Utah Association for the Deaf, shared that Jean's mother, Lucy, played a pivotal role in inspiring Jean's career path as an interpreter (Valerie G. Kinney, personal communication, January 9, 2013). This familial influence is a testament to the power of shared passion and dedication.
The Greenwood Family. Top row: Ann, Virgil, Linda, Virginia. Bottom row Virgil Rogers Greenwood, Jean, Charles, Lucy McMills Greenwood, circa 1958-59
Jean taught American Sign Language (ASL) classes at Ogden High School from 1989 until 1994. In the spring of 1990, the Ogden School Board of Education and the Utah State Board of Education approved the ASL programs through the Technology Programs. From there, Jean started teaching ASL classes at Ogden High School.
While Jean was teaching ASL classes, Annette Thorup Tull, a CODA and interpreter, expressed interest in teaching ASL classes at Jordan High School. For many years, Annette and Jean interpreted for the Institutional Council of the Utah Schools for the Deaf and Blind. During the spring of 1993, Jean invited Cal Evans, a Jordan Special Education Director, to visit her high school class to see if they would like to include ASL classes in Jordan High School programs. In the Ogden District, Winefred Ospitile collaborated with the Vocational Education Department of the State of Utah, successfully securing approval from the Utah State Board of Education for the ASL classes to fulfill high school credit requirements for vocational education graduation. The goal of this program was to assist students in becoming interpreters for the deaf. After visiting Jean’s class, Cal Evans got approval for Jordan High School to begin in 1994. With Jean's help, Annette was able to get her teaching job at Jordan High School (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, October 24, 2012).
While Jean was teaching ASL classes, Annette Thorup Tull, a CODA and interpreter, expressed interest in teaching ASL classes at Jordan High School. For many years, Annette and Jean interpreted for the Institutional Council of the Utah Schools for the Deaf and Blind. During the spring of 1993, Jean invited Cal Evans, a Jordan Special Education Director, to visit her high school class to see if they would like to include ASL classes in Jordan High School programs. In the Ogden District, Winefred Ospitile collaborated with the Vocational Education Department of the State of Utah, successfully securing approval from the Utah State Board of Education for the ASL classes to fulfill high school credit requirements for vocational education graduation. The goal of this program was to assist students in becoming interpreters for the deaf. After visiting Jean’s class, Cal Evans got approval for Jordan High School to begin in 1994. With Jean's help, Annette was able to get her teaching job at Jordan High School (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, October 24, 2012).
Jean Greenwood Thomas and Shirley Christensen Leavitt, a hearing child of Deaf parents, 1950s
At the same time, Jean participated in the 1993 State Legislature Study Group. Her efforts led to the establishment of a formal interpreter training program and the recognition of American Sign Language (ASL) as a foreign language in school settings. She also lobbied for regulations to prevent unqualified individuals from teaching ASL in high school programs. Jean played a crucial role in advocating for two bills during the 1994 Utah legislative session: Senate Bill 41, which mandated the certification of interpreters, and Senate Bill 42, which aimed to grant American Sign Language (ASL) the same status as a foreign language. Her unwavering lobbying efforts ultimately led to the successful passage of both bills.
Jean's unwavering perseverance was instrumental in the path she paved for ASL classes in high schools. Her efforts led to Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) endorsing a fully funded interpreter-training program, recognizing ASL high school classes as a foreign language, and offering vocational credit toward graduation. After completing the Ogden City School District's sign language work, Salt Lake Community College submitted a bid for ASL interpreting at the SLCC. Jean's persistence, together with the efforts of the Ogden City School District, resulted in the majority of the work being completed.
Jean worked with four people in authority in the Ogden City School District: Cyrus Freston, special education director with the Ogden City School District and son of Deaf parents, Cyrus and Lillian Freston; Winefred Ospitile, vocational education; Larry Leatham, assistant principal at Ogden High School; and Santiago Sandoval, principal at Ogden High School. None of this would have been possible without Jean's persistence and the cooperation of those in positions of authority.
Jean's unwavering perseverance was instrumental in the path she paved for ASL classes in high schools. Her efforts led to Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) endorsing a fully funded interpreter-training program, recognizing ASL high school classes as a foreign language, and offering vocational credit toward graduation. After completing the Ogden City School District's sign language work, Salt Lake Community College submitted a bid for ASL interpreting at the SLCC. Jean's persistence, together with the efforts of the Ogden City School District, resulted in the majority of the work being completed.
Jean worked with four people in authority in the Ogden City School District: Cyrus Freston, special education director with the Ogden City School District and son of Deaf parents, Cyrus and Lillian Freston; Winefred Ospitile, vocational education; Larry Leatham, assistant principal at Ogden High School; and Santiago Sandoval, principal at Ogden High School. None of this would have been possible without Jean's persistence and the cooperation of those in positions of authority.
Jean Greenwood Thomas and her husband, Lee Thomas, early 1970s
Dr. Lee Robinson, the superintendent of the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, and Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, a Deaf representative on the USDB Institutional Council, promptly hired Jean to serve as the sign language specialist after the legislation passed in the spring of 1994. She was instrumental in supporting thirty-six interpreters to achieve official certification (Golden Keys Award Program Book, 1999).
Jean earned the Golden Key award from the Utah State Office of Rehabilitation on October 6, 1999, for her many years of service to the Utah Deaf community. According to the 1999 Golden Key Awards program book, she demonstrated excellent leadership and dedication in the field of sign language and instruction. Jean, the daughter of a Deaf father and a CODA mother, has a clear perspective on the needs of the Utah Deaf community, particularly in terms of the skills necessary to communicate effectively in a hearing society. She has polished her skills to maximize her effectiveness in supporting others and holds the highest level of national and state interpreting certification (Golden Keys Award Program Book, 1999).
Jean earned the Golden Key award from the Utah State Office of Rehabilitation on October 6, 1999, for her many years of service to the Utah Deaf community. According to the 1999 Golden Key Awards program book, she demonstrated excellent leadership and dedication in the field of sign language and instruction. Jean, the daughter of a Deaf father and a CODA mother, has a clear perspective on the needs of the Utah Deaf community, particularly in terms of the skills necessary to communicate effectively in a hearing society. She has polished her skills to maximize her effectiveness in supporting others and holds the highest level of national and state interpreting certification (Golden Keys Award Program Book, 1999).
Wing Bulter, Dale Boam, and Jean Greenwood Thomas at the RID Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, 2017
Jean's leadership in the field of interpretation is unparalleled. She was the first to teach American Sign Language as a foreign language in high school, a pioneering move that set the stage for significant change (Golden Keys Award Program Book, 1999). In 1989, Utah became the first state to offer American Sign Language classes in high schools. This milestone was achieved largely due to her pioneering efforts as a dedicated sign language interpreter. Her passionate vision quickly gained popularity, and other states followed suit by incorporating ASL into their high school curricula (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, August 5, 2024).
Jean has previously won the Ogden Standard-Examiner's "Apple for the Teacher" award and was recognized for "Outstanding Service in Distance Education" for Utah students. She consulted the Utah State Office of Education's Department of Students at Risk Services. She remained a passionate advocate for interpreters and Deaf people's rights. Despite her full-time job and volunteer activities, she was always willing to provide her expert interpreter services whenever needed (Golden Keys Award Program Book, 1999).
Furthermore, Jean is a pioneer in the field of interpretation. She was the first to teach American Sign Language as a foreign language in high school. She has served on the Utah Interpreter Certification Board. She has been a leader in sponsoring legislation regarding interpreting certification, has served on numerous committees by sharing her expertise on sign language issues, and has worked tirelessly to address the Utah Deaf community's severe shortage of qualified interpreters (Golden Keys Award Program Book, 1999).
Jean has previously won the Ogden Standard-Examiner's "Apple for the Teacher" award and was recognized for "Outstanding Service in Distance Education" for Utah students. She consulted the Utah State Office of Education's Department of Students at Risk Services. She remained a passionate advocate for interpreters and Deaf people's rights. Despite her full-time job and volunteer activities, she was always willing to provide her expert interpreter services whenever needed (Golden Keys Award Program Book, 1999).
Furthermore, Jean is a pioneer in the field of interpretation. She was the first to teach American Sign Language as a foreign language in high school. She has served on the Utah Interpreter Certification Board. She has been a leader in sponsoring legislation regarding interpreting certification, has served on numerous committees by sharing her expertise on sign language issues, and has worked tirelessly to address the Utah Deaf community's severe shortage of qualified interpreters (Golden Keys Award Program Book, 1999).
Jean Greenwood Thomas, 2020
Jean's dedication and service to the Utah Deaf community have been recognized through various awards, a testament to her unwavering commitment. She was the recipient of the Ogden Standard-Examiner's 'Apple for the Teacher' award and was acknowledged for her 'Outstanding Service in Distance Education' for Utah students. Her consultation with the Department of Students at Risk Services of the Utah State Office of Education and her advocacy for interpreters and Deaf people's rights further demonstrates her commitment. Despite her full-time job and volunteer activities, she has always been ready to provide her expert interpreter services whenever needed.
As mentioned in the Golden Keys Award Program Book of 1999, Jean has demonstrated exceptional energy and effort toward improving her skills and supporting others. She played an active role in the implementation of ASL classes in high schools, with the support of the Ogden City School District. Although Jean worked behind the scenes, her contributions were invaluable, and she deserves recognition for her efforts in strengthening the Utah interpreting community. Jean is a pillar of strength for the Utah Deaf community.
As mentioned in the Golden Keys Award Program Book of 1999, Jean has demonstrated exceptional energy and effort toward improving her skills and supporting others. She played an active role in the implementation of ASL classes in high schools, with the support of the Ogden City School District. Although Jean worked behind the scenes, her contributions were invaluable, and she deserves recognition for her efforts in strengthening the Utah interpreting community. Jean is a pillar of strength for the Utah Deaf community.
Jean Greenwood Thomas and her husband Lee Thomas, 2020
Notes
Jean Greenwood Thomas, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker. October 24, 2012.
Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, August 5, 2024.
Valerie G. Kinney, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, January 9, 2013.
Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, August 5, 2024.
Valerie G. Kinney, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, January 9, 2013.
References
Golden Keys Award Program Book, October 6, 1999.
Mortensen, Dave. “Deaf Citizens Day a Big Success.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 17, no. 9 (February 1994): 1.
Mortensen, Dave. “Deaf Citizens Day a Big Success.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 17, no. 9 (February 1994): 1.
Annette May Thorup Tull
Annette May Thorup Tull played a significant role in the advancement of American Sign Language (ASL) and interpretation services. In the fall of 1990, she established the first interpreting training program at Salt Lake Community College in Salt Lake City, Utah. Annette was actively involved in politics while working as a Sign Language interpreter, interpreter instructor, and ASL teacher. Her efforts supported Senate Bill 41, which aimed to certify interpreters, and Senate Bill 42, which aimed to provide ASL the same status as a foreign language. Her work paid off when both bills were passed in 1994. Annette is credited with working with the Utah Deaf community to expand interpreting services and get ASL recognized as a foreign language.
Annette May Thorup Tull. Source: FamilySearch.org
Annette May Thorup Tull was born on May 12, 1948, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to deaf parents, Verl Walter Thorup and Cleo Brown Smith. Verl graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1940. In the fall of 1940, he enrolled at Gallaudet College, where he stayed for a year and a half before returning to Utah, where he lived in the most desired real estate on Yale Avenue, Salt Lake City, Utah (Gallaudet University Alumni Cards).
Verl Walter Thorup & and Cleo Brown Smith standing outside of the Utah School for the Deaf, Ogden, Utah, late 1930s. Source: FamilySearch.org
Annette was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had held numerous positions in volunteer organizations (Obit).
She married Fred Michael Tull on May 4, 1967, in the Salt Lake Temple in Salt Lake City, Utah (Obituary). They had five children: Kimberly Ann, Karlus Pulley, Michelle Lynne, Omar Munoz, and Jason Michael.
She married Fred Michael Tull on May 4, 1967, in the Salt Lake Temple in Salt Lake City, Utah (Obituary). They had five children: Kimberly Ann, Karlus Pulley, Michelle Lynne, Omar Munoz, and Jason Michael.
Fred Michael Tull and Annette May Thorup, 1967. Source: FamilySearch.org
Annette grew up as a "Child of Deaf Adults" (CODA), loving and cherishing the Utah Deaf community. She has worked as an interpreter, taught American Sign Language, and trained interpreters at Salt Lake Community College. Through her efforts, she was extremely dedicated to the Utah Deaf community.
Annette traveled to Colorado in the late 1980s to attend a summer workshop at Front Range Community College. Beginning in 1982, this college received various grants from the Department of Rehabilitation for the states in Region VIII. During its early years, the program funded approximately three workshops per year in six states to encourage people to become interpreters and to give workshops for interpreters to improve their skills. Annette assisted with the instructions for some of the workshops. She became certified by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf when only a few people in Utah had certification. While Utah established a state certification system, Annette saw the value in having both national and state certifications. When she became certified, she became a proctor for the RID written tests (Ann Topliff, personal communication, October 27, 2012).
Annette traveled to Colorado in the late 1980s to attend a summer workshop at Front Range Community College. Beginning in 1982, this college received various grants from the Department of Rehabilitation for the states in Region VIII. During its early years, the program funded approximately three workshops per year in six states to encourage people to become interpreters and to give workshops for interpreters to improve their skills. Annette assisted with the instructions for some of the workshops. She became certified by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf when only a few people in Utah had certification. While Utah established a state certification system, Annette saw the value in having both national and state certifications. When she became certified, she became a proctor for the RID written tests (Ann Topliff, personal communication, October 27, 2012).
Annette May Thorup Tull's URID Professional Interpreting Certificate, 1981. Source: FamilySearch.org
Annette taught American Sign Language classes at Kearns High School in the 1980s. She also taught ASL at Jordan High School in the 1990s. As an interpreter in the Jordan School District, she also interpreted for several Deaf students in public schools, including Dan V. Mathis, Pamela Mower, Reid Hunt, and Camille Call-Garcia, all of whom succeeded in their education and careers. Dan V. Mathis noted that Annette had a positive impact on those she interpreted for at school. He also remembers her as an ASL champion who would occasionally discuss Deaf culture (Dan Mathis, personal communication, September 5, 2012).
Annette May Thorup Tull, Brand New 1969 VW. Source: FamilySearch.org
Beginning in 1990, FRCC received a new grant. The grant's director, Ann Topliff, indicated that one of the grant's goals was to help Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) establish an interpreting program in Salt Lake City, Utah. Annette taught several of those classes at SLCC before the college formally launched its credit interpreting program. Annette was enthusiastic about FRCC's efforts to establish an interpreting program. She had also been working with Linda Adams, an administrative assistant at SLCC. Linda was instrumental in establishing the program, working long and hard on all the paperwork required to start a new program. Linda Adams' efforts allowed Annette to witness the program begin. Ann Topliff recalls Annette as "a happy person who laughed a lot" (Ann Toopliff, personal communication, October 27, 2012).
Annette launched the first interpreting training program at Salt Lake Community College in the fall of 1990, with six students in the first-ever interpreter class. One of the earliest students, Lee Ellen Stevens, remembers "Annette as a kind, knowledgeable, and encouraging instructor." She went to see her interpreter and made sure we were aware of the many situations we would confront. "I learned a lot from her and enjoyed her classes" (Lee Ellen Stevens, personal communication, September 24, 2012).
Annette launched the first interpreting training program at Salt Lake Community College in the fall of 1990, with six students in the first-ever interpreter class. One of the earliest students, Lee Ellen Stevens, remembers "Annette as a kind, knowledgeable, and encouraging instructor." She went to see her interpreter and made sure we were aware of the many situations we would confront. "I learned a lot from her and enjoyed her classes" (Lee Ellen Stevens, personal communication, September 24, 2012).
Annette May Thorup Tull. Source: FamilySearch.org
Jean Greenwood Thomas' Letter of Recommendation for Annette May Thorup Tull. Source: FamilySearch.org
During her tenure as an interpreter and SLCC instructor, Annette's passion for ASL education and interpreter certification was evident. She shared her aspiration to teach ASL at Jordan High School with her friend, Jean Greenwood Thomas, a CODA interpreter and ASL teacher at Ogden School District. A year later, Jean's relentless efforts led to the approval of Jordan High School's ASL lessons through state authority channels. Annette's dream of teaching ASL at Jordan High School was realized in 1994, a testament to her unwavering dedication (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, October 24, 2012).
While Annette worked as a sign language interpreter, interpreter instructor, and ASL teacher, she felt it was critical for Utah to recognize their interpreter state certification through a formal interpreter training program and to recognize American Sign Language as a foreign language in school settings. Furthermore, Annette knew that the FRCC's soft money financing for the SLCC Interpreter Training Program was ending, indicating a need for ongoing funding (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, October 24, 2012). During the 1994 Utah Legislative session, she actively participated in the political process to support Senate Bill 41 to certify interpreters and Senate Bill 42 to give American Sign Language the same status as a foreign language (Mortensen, UAD Bulletin, February 1994). Both bills ultimately passed. This, however, had a consequence for Annette's teaching job at SLCC since she could no longer teach due to a lack of a college degree. One of the interpreters, Jennifer Storrer, recalled, "She was a wonderful interpreter and instructor." I remember her working tirelessly to develop the ITP at SLCC, even though it meant she could no longer be involved. She sincerely worked for the better interest of the community!" (Jennifer Storrer, personal communication, September 27, 2012).
While Annette worked as a sign language interpreter, interpreter instructor, and ASL teacher, she felt it was critical for Utah to recognize their interpreter state certification through a formal interpreter training program and to recognize American Sign Language as a foreign language in school settings. Furthermore, Annette knew that the FRCC's soft money financing for the SLCC Interpreter Training Program was ending, indicating a need for ongoing funding (Jean Greenwood Thomas, personal communication, October 24, 2012). During the 1994 Utah Legislative session, she actively participated in the political process to support Senate Bill 41 to certify interpreters and Senate Bill 42 to give American Sign Language the same status as a foreign language (Mortensen, UAD Bulletin, February 1994). Both bills ultimately passed. This, however, had a consequence for Annette's teaching job at SLCC since she could no longer teach due to a lack of a college degree. One of the interpreters, Jennifer Storrer, recalled, "She was a wonderful interpreter and instructor." I remember her working tirelessly to develop the ITP at SLCC, even though it meant she could no longer be involved. She sincerely worked for the better interest of the community!" (Jennifer Storrer, personal communication, September 27, 2012).
Annette May Thorup Tull, 1980. Photo: Robert Bonnell
After the bills passed, Annette continued to teach ASL classes at Jordan High School until her death on December 13, 1997, at the age of 49, due to complications from diabetes. Following her death, Marilyn Tiller Call, a hard-of-hearing woman with a long history of service to the Utah Deaf community through Utah legislative advocacy, wrote the following piece titled "Legacy of Annette Tull" for the spring 1998 issue of DSDHH News:
Legacy of Annette Tull
“Among the bills that were passed in the 1998 legislative session was House Bill 392 regarding training in American Sign Language [American Sign Language] sponsored by Representative Dave Hogue. This Bill extended the teaching of ASL as a foreign language credit down to the middle school or junior high school level.
The background of this Bill was very interesting. Representative Dave Hogue was called to substitute for Annette Tull’s sign language classes at Jordan High School when she began to have problems with her legs in late November of 1997. Hogue’s hearing daughter, Julie, was a best friend with Camille Call during her elementary school years and her family knew some sign language. While Hogue was substituted teaching, he asked Annette Tull’s students about some of their needs. The students expressed their wish that they could have taken ASL in Junior High so they could have been very proficient signers by High School. Hogue told them he would sponsor a Bill at the Legislature if they would help lobby.
When Hogue called the school and asked to talk to Annette Tull and her students in January, he was stunned to learn Annette had passed away. This made him feel ever more urgency to pass this Bill.
When the Bill came up for a vote in the House of Representatives, a special ceremony and moment of silence was held to honor Annette Tull and to dedicate the Bill to her. Her family was invited to stand on the floor of the House of Representatives to receive the special written tribute,” as follows:
Whereas, Annette, working on conjunction with her students, proposed the idea of American Sign Language being taught in the public schools. House Bill 293, “Training in ASL” was prepared for introduction during the 52nd Legislative General session. Annette is considered by many as the educator who did more than any other educator to promote the teaching of ASL in the public schools and was the driving force behind introducing ASL in the Jordan High School and Jordan School District” (Call, UAD Bulletin, May 1998, p. 6).
The background of this Bill was very interesting. Representative Dave Hogue was called to substitute for Annette Tull’s sign language classes at Jordan High School when she began to have problems with her legs in late November of 1997. Hogue’s hearing daughter, Julie, was a best friend with Camille Call during her elementary school years and her family knew some sign language. While Hogue was substituted teaching, he asked Annette Tull’s students about some of their needs. The students expressed their wish that they could have taken ASL in Junior High so they could have been very proficient signers by High School. Hogue told them he would sponsor a Bill at the Legislature if they would help lobby.
When Hogue called the school and asked to talk to Annette Tull and her students in January, he was stunned to learn Annette had passed away. This made him feel ever more urgency to pass this Bill.
When the Bill came up for a vote in the House of Representatives, a special ceremony and moment of silence was held to honor Annette Tull and to dedicate the Bill to her. Her family was invited to stand on the floor of the House of Representatives to receive the special written tribute,” as follows:
Whereas, Annette, working on conjunction with her students, proposed the idea of American Sign Language being taught in the public schools. House Bill 293, “Training in ASL” was prepared for introduction during the 52nd Legislative General session. Annette is considered by many as the educator who did more than any other educator to promote the teaching of ASL in the public schools and was the driving force behind introducing ASL in the Jordan High School and Jordan School District” (Call, UAD Bulletin, May 1998, p. 6).
The House of Representatives Memorial Citation of Annette May Thorup Tull. Source: FamilySearch,org
The Annette Tull Lifetime Achievement Award is named after Annette Tull, who was a passionate advocate for American Sign Language (ASL), Deaf culture, interpreting, and awareness of Children of Deaf Adults (CODA). Annette played a significant role in the Utah Deaf community by advocating for the expansion of interpreting programs and promoting the recognition of American Sign Language as a foreign language. The Annette Tull Lifetime Achievement Award now carries on her legacy, acknowledging her widely recognized contributions.
In Tribute to Annette May Thorup Tull from Mitch Jensen. UTRID Newsletter, December 1997. Source: FamilySearch.org
Annette May Thorup Tull. Source: FamilySearch.org
Notes
Ann Topliff, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker. October 27, 2012.
Dan Mathis, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, October 5, 2012.
Jean Greenwood Thomas, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker. October 24, 2012.
Jennifer Storrer, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, September 27, 2012.
Dan Mathis, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, October 5, 2012.
Jean Greenwood Thomas, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker. October 24, 2012.
Jennifer Storrer, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, September 27, 2012.
References
Call, Marilyn. "Legacy of Annette Tull.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 21.12 (May 1998): 6.
Call, Marilyn. “Legacy of Annette Tull” DSDHH (Spring 1998).
Death: Annette May Thorup Tull. Dec. 15 1997. http://www.deseretnews.com/article/600980/Death--Annette-May-Thorup-Tull.html?pg=all
Mortensen, Dave. "Deaf Citizens Day a Big Success.” UAD Bulletin, vol, 17, no. 9 (February 1994): 1.
"Verl Walker Thorup: 1940." "Gallaudet University Alumni Cards, 1866-1957. http://www.aladin0.wrlc.org/gsdl/cgi-bin/library?e=d-01000-00---off-0alumni--00-1--0-10-0---0---0prompt-10---4-------0-1l--11-en-50---20-home---01-3-1-00-0-0-11-0-0utfZz-8-00&a=d&cl=CL3.63&d=HASH01e741e832e13515c0c71b25
Call, Marilyn. “Legacy of Annette Tull” DSDHH (Spring 1998).
Death: Annette May Thorup Tull. Dec. 15 1997. http://www.deseretnews.com/article/600980/Death--Annette-May-Thorup-Tull.html?pg=all
Mortensen, Dave. "Deaf Citizens Day a Big Success.” UAD Bulletin, vol, 17, no. 9 (February 1994): 1.
"Verl Walker Thorup: 1940." "Gallaudet University Alumni Cards, 1866-1957. http://www.aladin0.wrlc.org/gsdl/cgi-bin/library?e=d-01000-00---off-0alumni--00-1--0-10-0---0---0prompt-10---4-------0-1l--11-en-50---20-home---01-3-1-00-0-0-11-0-0utfZz-8-00&a=d&cl=CL3.63&d=HASH01e741e832e13515c0c71b25
