Biographies of Prominent
Utah Interpreters
Compiled & Written by Jodi Becker Kinner
Published in 2012
Updated in 2021
Updated again in 2023
Published in 2012
Updated in 2021
Updated again in 2023
Prior to the late 1950s and early 1960s, there were no sign language classes or interpreter training programs (Humphrey & Alcorn, 2001). CODAs, or Children of Deaf Adults, were commonly used as interpreters for the Utah Deaf community at events, appointments, meetings, church activities, and other occasions. According to Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, a Utah native, CODA, and former director of the Utah Community Center for the Deaf, interpreters, particularly CODAs, volunteered to interpret for Deaf people for years until the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) was founded in 1964 (Stewart, UAD Bulletin, June 1973).
During the revolutionary period of the 1960s and 1970s, the marginalized groups across the country strived to gain social equality in society at large, and it was a necessary time for sign language interpreting to grow (Humphrey & Alcorn, 2001). As a result of the RID environment change, specifically the Code of Ethics (now known as the Code of Professional Conduct), interpreters' roles evolved from "helper" to "professional."
In addition to CODA interpreters, the Utah Deaf community relied heavily on hard of hearing people who acquired their language before wearing hearing aids and those who lost their hearing but later developed good oral communication skills. By 1961, the percentage of people who later became deaf in Utah had begun to fall, while the percentage of Deaf people born deaf had begun to grow. The number of Deaf people with multiple disabilities also increased (UAD Bulletin, Spring 1961, p. 2). This situation of need drove the necessity for interpreting services among Utah Deaf community. They could no longer rely on Deaf people to interpret when needed. To meet their interpreting demands, the RID organization was founded.
During the revolutionary period of the 1960s and 1970s, the marginalized groups across the country strived to gain social equality in society at large, and it was a necessary time for sign language interpreting to grow (Humphrey & Alcorn, 2001). As a result of the RID environment change, specifically the Code of Ethics (now known as the Code of Professional Conduct), interpreters' roles evolved from "helper" to "professional."
In addition to CODA interpreters, the Utah Deaf community relied heavily on hard of hearing people who acquired their language before wearing hearing aids and those who lost their hearing but later developed good oral communication skills. By 1961, the percentage of people who later became deaf in Utah had begun to fall, while the percentage of Deaf people born deaf had begun to grow. The number of Deaf people with multiple disabilities also increased (UAD Bulletin, Spring 1961, p. 2). This situation of need drove the necessity for interpreting services among Utah Deaf community. They could no longer rely on Deaf people to interpret when needed. To meet their interpreting demands, the RID organization was founded.
Madelaine Burton (Interpreter) & Robert Sanderson (Deaf). UAD Bulletin, February 1972
When the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (URID) was established in 1968, its founders were mostly people with Deaf family members. Several long-time Utah Deaf community leaders also joined the organization. Our current UTRID was finally filled with trained, competent interpreters as a result of the interpreter preparation programs.
Interpreter training programs have expanded throughout the years, and interpreters are still in high demand. Utah Interpreter Programs at Robert G. Sanderson Community Center, Salt Lake Community College, Utah Valley University, Davis Applied Technology College (the ASL interpreting program is no longer in operation), and Utah State University provide formal training for those interested in the interpreting profession. Previously, the VRS Interpreting Institute (VRSII) at Sorensen Communications provided training for new interpreting graduates, seasoned interpreters, and interpreter educators.
Finally, I'd like to thank the interpreters included in their biographies for their amazing dedication and accomplishments in the interpreting profession and the Utah Deaf community. They were fantastic champions for us, advocating the passage of legislation establishing American Sign Language as an official language in Utah, requiring interpreter certification, and establishing the Utah Interpreter Program.
Jodi Becker Kinner
Interpreter training programs have expanded throughout the years, and interpreters are still in high demand. Utah Interpreter Programs at Robert G. Sanderson Community Center, Salt Lake Community College, Utah Valley University, Davis Applied Technology College (the ASL interpreting program is no longer in operation), and Utah State University provide formal training for those interested in the interpreting profession. Previously, the VRS Interpreting Institute (VRSII) at Sorensen Communications provided training for new interpreting graduates, seasoned interpreters, and interpreter educators.
Finally, I'd like to thank the interpreters included in their biographies for their amazing dedication and accomplishments in the interpreting profession and the Utah Deaf community. They were fantastic champions for us, advocating the passage of legislation establishing American Sign Language as an official language in Utah, requiring interpreter certification, and establishing the Utah Interpreter Program.
Jodi Becker Kinner
Doris Wastlund interpreting the classroom. UAD Bulletin, February 1972
Note
Religion is mentioned in this biography document because the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a long history in Utah and significantly influences the Utah Deaf community. Other religions are represented in the biographies because not all of the people included are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The families of the people in the biographies will find this helpful for preserving history and researching their family trees. It can also preserve the story of the person's life so that people in the future can enjoy and remember it.
For your reference, I use the first name when writing the biographies. In our patriarchal culture, women are referred to by their husbands' last names rather than their own while recognizing their advocacy, dedication, and contributions.
The families of the people in the biographies will find this helpful for preserving history and researching their family trees. It can also preserve the story of the person's life so that people in the future can enjoy and remember it.
For your reference, I use the first name when writing the biographies. In our patriarchal culture, women are referred to by their husbands' last names rather than their own while recognizing their advocacy, dedication, and contributions.
Lucy Pearl McMills Greenwood
Lucy McMills Greenwood worked as a sign language interpreter for over 40 years, mostly at the Ogden Branch for the Deaf. She was a well-known interpreter and one of the country's first licensed professional interpreters in the 1960s. She was a member of the Utah Association for the Deaf as well as the National Registry of Deaf Interpreters. Lucy was a fierce advocate for the Utah Deaf community. Despite her hectic schedule raising a large family, Lucy is praised for her continuous dedication to the field of sign language interpreting and her voluntary commitment to giving back to the Utah Deaf community.
Lucy McMills Greenwood, Fall-Winter 1970-1971 @ 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. John and Pearl were students at the Utah School for the Deaf in the early 1900s. They had two daughters, Lucy and Eva Alice (Fowler). Lucy's older brother, John Ault McMills, died shortly after birth.
Lucy Pearl McMills on left Eva Alice McMills on right @ FamilySearch.org
According to Lucy's biography, which was written by the Ogden Branch for the Deaf, she had a very happy childhood supporting her Deaf parents and playing with her sister, Eva. Lucy and Eva were taught sign language and finger spelling at a young age and quickly became proficient. Lucy attended school in the Salt Lake City District as a child (LPMG Biography). They were extremely helpful to their parents, interpreting messages and helping with their father's McMills Shoe Repair Shop (LPMG Biography). This shop was located at 267 E. 5th South in Salt Lake City and directly across the street from the Utah State Office of Education, about the driveway for the Salt Lake City Police Department (Jean Thomas, personal communication, June 11, 2015).
Lucy, John, Eva and Pearl McMills
According to Lucy's biography, which was written by the Ogden Branch for the Deaf, she had a very happy childhood supporting her Deaf parents and playing with her sister, Eva. Lucy and Eva were taught sign language and finger spelling at a young age and quickly became proficient. Lucy attended school in the Salt Lake City District as a child (LPMG Biography). They were extremely helpful to their parents, interpreting messages and helping with their father's McMills Shoe Repair Shop (LPMG Biography). This shop was located at 267 E. 5th South in Salt Lake City and directly across the street from the Utah State Office of Education, about the driveway for the Salt Lake City Police Department (Jean Thomas, personal communication, June 11, 2015).
Lucy went to her father's shoe shop every day after school to dye shoes. Eva, her sister, handled the majority of the interpreting. The police repeatedly looked for Eva and took her from work to interpret for Deaf people (Jean Thomas, personal communication, July 15, 2015).
Lucy (Greenwood) and Eva (Prudence), John and Pearl's daughters, became well-known interpreters in Utah (UAD Bulletin, February 1972).
Lucy went to her father's shoe shop every day after school to dye shoes. Eva, her sister, handled the majority of the interpreting. The police repeatedly looked for Eva and took her from work to interpret for Deaf people (Jean Thomas, personal communication, July 15, 2015).
Lucy (Greenwood) and Eva (Prudence), John and Pearl's daughters, 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, during 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. Eight months later, on August 14, 1936, Lucy and Virgil were married in the Salt Lake Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 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 great legacy. His prediction came true when Lucy and Virgil became parents to nine children, five sons and four daughters (LPMG Biography). Ruth Ann Greenwood (Felter); John Rogers Greenwood (died at age 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, during 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. Eight months later, on August 14, 1936, Lucy and Virgil were married in the Salt Lake Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 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 great legacy. His prediction came true when Lucy and Virgil became parents to nine children, five sons and four daughters (LPMG Biography). Ruth Ann Greenwood (Felter); John Rogers Greenwood (died at age 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 @ FamilySearch.org
Virgil and Lucy resided in Roy until the early 1940s. Virgil was a farmer in Roy when they first married. 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 huge 40-acre farm for his father, Ruben Percy Greenwood (his mother was Ethel Melissa Rogers), milking 36 cows by hand twice daily. He was employed to work for other Roy farmers. Delos W. Holly, a farmer, informed Jean in 1974 that every farmer wanted to hire the Greenwoods because they were hard workers and good farmers (Jean Thomas, personal communication, June 11, 2015).
Virgil was the oldest of five children born to Ruben P. and Ethel M. Rogers Greenwood. 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 Schools for the Deaf. Stewart died at 23 when he was hit by an automobile in Roy on his way home from a dance in Ogden, Utah. Arden was the fourth child who could hear and attended public school in Roy. Gloria was the youngest child and attended 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 to learn 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 deafness (Jean Thomas, personal communication, April 9, 2019).
Virgil was the oldest of five children born to Ruben P. and Ethel M. Rogers Greenwood. 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 Schools for the Deaf. Stewart died at 23 when he was hit by an automobile in Roy on his way home from a dance in Ogden, Utah. Arden was the fourth child who could hear and attended public school in Roy. Gloria was the youngest child and attended 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 to learn 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 deafness (Jean Thomas, personal communication, April 9, 2019).
Virgil Rogers Greenwood & Lucy Pearl McMills at Great Salt Lake, Utah @ FamilySearch.org
Virgil later left the farm to make a living. He was the state's first Deaf employee. In the beginning, he worked as a mechanic on B-52 bombers at Hill Air Force Base, where he created a system that allowed a mechanic to work on the engine and rotate the engine 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 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. 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. Her lifelong service was connected with church services and interpreting for the deaf, according to her obituary. 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. Lucy was invited to help with several special LDS Church projects, including the LDS Church's first mission training center for the deaf, special Temple projects, interpreting for General Conferences, and interpreting many LDS films into American Sign Language (UAD Bulletin, August 2011).
President Max W. Woodbury of Ogden Branch often asked Lucy to interpret for speakers. In 1946, President Woodbury requested Lucy to be the President of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association (YWMIA) at the Ogden Branch for the Deaf. She served faithfully for 23 years. Lucy was called a theology instructor when the Relief Society at the Ogden Branch was founded on November 5, 1956. 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 often asked Lucy to interpret for speakers. In 1946, President Woodbury requested Lucy to be the President of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association (YWMIA) at the Ogden Branch for the Deaf. She served faithfully for 23 years. Lucy was called a theology instructor when the Relief Society at the Ogden Branch was founded on November 5, 1956. 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 @ 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).
Years later, Lucy's two daughters, Jean Thomas, and Ruth Ann Felter, followed in their mother's footsteps and became interpreters (UAD Bulletin, May 1992).
Lucy has over forty years of experience interpreting for the deaf, primarily at the Ogden Branch for the Deaf. She was a well-known interpreter and 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).
She was one of the first interpreters to join the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, which was formed on October 5, 1968 (UAD Bulletin, Fall 1968). She was also one of thirteen interpreters who completed the difficult Utah Registry of Interpreters state certification on November 16, 1975 (UAD Bulletin, April 1975). Greenwood was acknowledged as Utah's senior interpreter in the 1970s after founding the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.
Years later, Lucy's two daughters, Jean Thomas, and Ruth Ann Felter, followed in their mother's footsteps and became interpreters (UAD Bulletin, May 1992).
Lucy has over forty years of experience interpreting for the deaf, primarily at the Ogden Branch for the Deaf. She was a well-known interpreter and 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).
She was one of the first interpreters to join the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, which was formed on October 5, 1968 (UAD Bulletin, Fall 1968). She was also one of thirteen interpreters who completed the difficult Utah Registry of Interpreters state certification on November 16, 1975 (UAD Bulletin, April 1975). Greenwood was acknowledged as Utah's senior interpreter in the 1970s after founding the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.
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. Unknown date and publication
Jean, Lucy's daughter, recalls her mother, Lucy, preparing for the national RID test in the 1960s. Her clothes were transformed into black, dark brown, navy blue, and other dark colors. Lucy and her sister, Eva, would talk about taking the RID test and how nervous Lucy 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 Thorpe 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 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 when Bob Sanderson was in charge of the training," she remarked, "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 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 @ FamilySearch.org
Lucy's work as an interpreter was mostly 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 till 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 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 till around 2005. She loved the Utah Deaf community and called herself DEAF. Jean could see Lucy had a "Deaf Heart" (Jean Thomas, personal communication, July 15, 2015).
Lucy passed away on July 21, 2011, at 91, in Rupert, Idaho, at the home of one of her daughters, Linda. Following the burial in Ogden, she was laid to rest with her husband, Virgil, who passed in August 1973, and her parents, John and Pearl McMills, in the Salt Lake City Cemetery in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her two boys, John Rogers and Charles Daniel, were buried there, as were her sister, Eva Alice McMills Prudence Fowler, and Eve's husband, Daniel E. Prudence. Jean Thomas of Roy, Ruth Ann Felter of Layton, and Linda Popcorn of Rupert, Idaho, are among her children (UAD Bulletin, August 2011). Lucy's two other boys, Paul Francis and Timothy David of Utah, are survivors (Jean Thomas, personal communication, July 15, 2015).
As can be seen, Lucy was a pioneer in interpreting and a strong advocate for the Utah Deaf community. There isn't enough room to include all of her volunteer efforts. Lucy is complimented for her continuous dedication to sign language interpreting and volunteer commitment to give back to the Utah Deaf community despite her hectic schedule raising a big family.
Lucy passed away on July 21, 2011, at 91, in Rupert, Idaho, at the home of one of her daughters, Linda. Following the burial in Ogden, she was laid to rest with her husband, Virgil, who passed in August 1973, and her parents, John and Pearl McMills, in the Salt Lake City Cemetery in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her two boys, John Rogers and Charles Daniel, were buried there, as were her sister, Eva Alice McMills Prudence Fowler, and Eve's husband, Daniel E. Prudence. Jean Thomas of Roy, Ruth Ann Felter of Layton, and Linda Popcorn of Rupert, Idaho, are among her children (UAD Bulletin, August 2011). Lucy's two other boys, Paul Francis and Timothy David of Utah, are survivors (Jean Thomas, personal communication, July 15, 2015).
As can be seen, Lucy was a pioneer in interpreting and a strong advocate for the Utah Deaf community. There isn't enough room to include all of her volunteer efforts. Lucy is complimented for her continuous dedication to sign language interpreting and volunteer commitment to give back to the Utah Deaf community despite her hectic schedule raising a big family.
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
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
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 held the distinction of becoming Utah's and the United States' first nationally certified interpreter in 1965. She was a pioneer of interpreting from then on. Beth Ann was the first hearing woman elected to the Board of Directors of the Utah Association for the Deaf. She was also the first interpreter to coin the phrase "co-therapist" (interpreting for both psychiatrist and patient). Beth Ann was appointed director of the Utah Community Center for the Deaf in Bountiful, Utah, in 1985. She went above and beyond for years to deliver great community service. She also had an impact on deaf-related services and the interpreting system. Beth Ann is our first nationally certified interpreter in Utah and the United States, which 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 Campbell, Personal Communication, September 18, 2012). Beth Ann, affectionately known as "B.A.," is a well-known 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. He was what was known as a "blue baby." Beth Ann and her family believe he was born deaf. Arnold was enrolled at the Utah School for the Deaf (USD) in Ogden, Utah when he was six years old. Arnold's mother supported him and assisted him with his education. He graduated from the USD in 1928. He started working as a shoe repairman. Beth Ann believes he studied shoe repair while at USD. Arnold was a basketball player for the school (Beth Ann 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. As a result, her ears were blocked, and she became deaf. Her parents enrolled her at USD when she was two and a half years old (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication September 18, 2012). She also graduated from USD in 1928. She was an accomplished seamstress. Beth Ann Campbell believes she studied sewing at USD (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012). At the time, students at the USD only went home on holidays throughout the year. Thus, they were taught regular academic subjects and mastered homemaking skills. They learned to clean, sew, and cook while there.
Arnold Henry Moon, Beth Ann's father, was born on March 7, 1905, in Woodland, Utah. He was what was known as a "blue baby." Beth Ann and her family believe he was born deaf. Arnold was enrolled at the Utah School for the Deaf (USD) in Ogden, Utah when he was six years old. Arnold's mother supported him and assisted him with his education. He graduated from the USD in 1928. He started working as a shoe repairman. Beth Ann believes he studied shoe repair while at USD. Arnold was a basketball player for the school (Beth Ann 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. As a result, her ears were blocked, and she became deaf. Her parents enrolled her at USD when she was two and a half years old (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication September 18, 2012). She also graduated from USD in 1928. She was an accomplished seamstress. Beth Ann Campbell believes she studied sewing at USD (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012). At the time, students at the USD only went home on holidays throughout the year. Thus, they were taught regular academic subjects and mastered homemaking skills. They learned to clean, sew, and cook while there.
Marjorie, Arnold, Zelma and Beth Ann Moon, 1972
Zelma Lindquist was born in West Jordan, Utah, on January 6, 1908. She was born with measles and contracted diphtheria when she was two. As a result, her ears were blocked, and she became deaf. Her parents enrolled her at USD when she was two and a half years old (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication September 18, 2012). She also graduated from USD in 1928. She was an accomplished seamstress. Beth Ann Campbell believes she studied sewing at USD (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012). At the time, students at the USD only went home on holidays throughout the year. Thus, they were taught regular academic subjects and mastered homemaking skills. They learned to clean, sew, and cook while there.
Because the USD had many Deaf students, they learned to get along and formed lifetime friendships. Arnold and Zelma met at the school and began dating, and married on June 19, 1929, at this school. The newlyweds first lived in Hanna, Utah, where they lost Beth Ann's two older brothers, Delbert and Deloy. Arnold and Zelma then relocated to Salt Lake City, Utah, where they found better employment and social opportunities with other Deaf people (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
Beth Ann's parents were hardworking and supplied for Beth Ann and her older sister, Marjorie. Her first language was "sign language," which she picked from her parents at home. At the same time, she learned English from her playmates, the radio, and her relatives. She has no recollection of not being able to sign or speak English. She learned to like the children (personal conversation, September 18, 2012, Beth Ann Campbell).
Although Beth Ann's parents were deaf, it became her 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. She had to make phone calls for her parents. They didn't have a phone at the time, so she was always going to the neighbors and asking if she could use their phone to make doctor appointments, get medicine, and take care of other things. She was sometimes 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 because she was forced to do it as a child and young adult (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
Because the USD had many Deaf students, they learned to get along and formed lifetime friendships. Arnold and Zelma met at the school and began dating, and married on June 19, 1929, at this school. The newlyweds first lived in Hanna, Utah, where they lost Beth Ann's two older brothers, Delbert and Deloy. Arnold and Zelma then relocated to Salt Lake City, Utah, where they found better employment and social opportunities with other Deaf people (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
Beth Ann's parents were hardworking and supplied for Beth Ann and her older sister, Marjorie. Her first language was "sign language," which she picked from her parents at home. At the same time, she learned English from her playmates, the radio, and her relatives. She has no recollection of not being able to sign or speak English. She learned to like the children (personal conversation, September 18, 2012, Beth Ann Campbell).
Although Beth Ann's parents were deaf, it became her 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. She had to make phone calls for her parents. They didn't have a phone at the time, so she was always going to the neighbors and asking if she could use their phone to make doctor appointments, get medicine, and take care of other things. She was sometimes 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 because she was forced to do it as a child and young adult (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell. UAD Bulletin, Winter 1970
Beth Ann's life changed in 1963 when her first husband, Wayne Stewart, a police officer, called her and asked her to help them find an interpreter at the Salt Lake City Police Department (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992). They had a Deaf man from Colorado in custody who was being mistreated. They needed an interpreter to speak with him. Beth Ann called an interpreter friend, but she could not leave work. She encouraged Beth Ann to see if she could help. She was terrified since she did not believe she had the necessary skills. She finally decided to go to the police station and do what she could. The Deaf man was chained up and terrified when Beth Ann arrived. They left her alone with him, and soon they were able to talk so she could help. They finally placed him on a bus back to Colorado. This was her first time interpreting outside of her house with her parents (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012). Since then, she has worked with Deaf people and provided them with interpretation in various situations (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992).
Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, a well-known Utah Deaf leader and president of the National Association of the Deaf, attended a workshop on "Interpreting for the Deaf" at Muncie, Indiana, in 1964 (UAD Bulletin, Spring 1964). Soon after, he issued a letter to Deaf parents, inviting them to notify their children, known as "Child of Deaf Adults" (CODA), about an upcoming interpreting meeting. Beth Ann, one of the CODAs, attended this meeting and saw for the first time what an interpreter does. She never imagined herself as an interpreter (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, a well-known Utah Deaf leader and president of the National Association of the Deaf, attended a workshop on "Interpreting for the Deaf" at Muncie, Indiana, in 1964 (UAD Bulletin, Spring 1964). Soon after, he issued a letter to Deaf parents, inviting them to notify their children, known as "Child of Deaf Adults" (CODA), about an upcoming interpreting meeting. Beth Ann, one of the CODAs, attended this meeting and saw for the first time what an interpreter does. She never imagined herself as an interpreter (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, 1973
Beth Ann was the first nationally certified interpreter in the United States, and the story was interesting (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992). In 1965, her boss, Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, then Deaf Services Counselor and President of the National Association of the Deaf, sent her to a National Registry for Interpreters of the Deaf training program in Indiana while she was studying to be a certified professional interpreter (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012). Beth Ann's husband, Dr. Jay J. Campbell, a former Deputy Superintendent of the Utah State Office of Education and an ally to the Utah Deaf community, shared that part of the training was to select and certify interpreters nationally. All the participants were tested and asked to draw straws to determine the order in which they would be tested nationally. Beth Ann was picked as the "last" person to be tested, while the woman next to her was picked as the "first." "I don't want to be the first," she explained to Beth Ann. "I don't want to be the last one," Beth Ann replied. They exchanged numbers, and Beth Ann became the "first" to be tested and the first to pass the exam. As a result, she became the first nationally certified professional interpreter (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992). From then on, Beth Ann was a pioneer in the interpreting field.
When W. David Mortensen, a Utah Deaf leader and long-time president of the Utah Association for the Deaf, was a student at the University of Utah in 1970, he needed a part-time interpreter. Beth Ann, a freelance interpreter, went to work with him. This was the first time the University had used an interpreter. She and David were terrified at first, but they got better with time (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012). Beth Ann was the first interpreter at the University to assist Dave with interpreting (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992).
While Beth Ann was a freelance interpreter for the Division of Rehabilitation in 1972, Dr. Sanderson, a statewide coordinator for Deaf adults at the Utah Division of Rehabilitation, needed an interpreter full-time. He invited her to come and see him. Although she loved her job with W. David Mortensen, she asked Dr. Sanderson if she could do both. He said, "No, if you worked for me, you would have to leave your job with David." Beth Ann then worked for Dr. Sanderson full-time (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012). Her first responsibility was assisting him with interpreting and accompanying him to all the meetings he was responsible for attending. In the April 1992 UAD Bulletin issue, Beth Ann shared, "I owe a great deal to Sandie. He was my mentor and teacher. He was patient with me and very kind. He was a great boss" (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992). Dr. Sanderson complimented her by saying, "Beth Ann Campbell, my long-suffering and patient interpreter, and colleague, a tenacious advocate of the deaf, was always ready" (Sanderson, 2004).
When W. David Mortensen, a Utah Deaf leader and long-time president of the Utah Association for the Deaf, was a student at the University of Utah in 1970, he needed a part-time interpreter. Beth Ann, a freelance interpreter, went to work with him. This was the first time the University had used an interpreter. She and David were terrified at first, but they got better with time (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012). Beth Ann was the first interpreter at the University to assist Dave with interpreting (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992).
While Beth Ann was a freelance interpreter for the Division of Rehabilitation in 1972, Dr. Sanderson, a statewide coordinator for Deaf adults at the Utah Division of Rehabilitation, needed an interpreter full-time. He invited her to come and see him. Although she loved her job with W. David Mortensen, she asked Dr. Sanderson if she could do both. He said, "No, if you worked for me, you would have to leave your job with David." Beth Ann then worked for Dr. Sanderson full-time (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012). Her first responsibility was assisting him with interpreting and accompanying him to all the meetings he was responsible for attending. In the April 1992 UAD Bulletin issue, Beth Ann shared, "I owe a great deal to Sandie. He was my mentor and teacher. He was patient with me and very kind. He was a great boss" (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, April 1992). Dr. Sanderson complimented her by saying, "Beth Ann Campbell, my long-suffering and patient interpreter, and colleague, a tenacious advocate of the deaf, was always ready" (Sanderson, 2004).
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
Beth Ann was one of the first hearing people to join the Utah Association for the Deaf (UAD) when Utah broke precedent by changing the name of the association from "of" to "for" in 1963 to allow hearing people to join the board (UAD Bulletin, Spring 1963, p. 2). In the March 1992 issue of the UAD Bulletin, Dr. Jay J. Campbell stated, "Beth Ann is well known in the UAD." She was assigned a secretary to W. David Mortensen when he was initially appointed president of the UAD in 1971. She was an active board member for many years" (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, March 1992).
On October 5, 1968, Beth Ann was one of the interpreters who assisted in establishing the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf. She was elected secretary (UAD Bulletin, Fall 1968).
On October 5, 1968, Beth Ann was one of the interpreters who assisted in establishing the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf. She was elected secretary (UAD Bulletin, Fall 1968).
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, the Utah State Board of Education hired Beth Ann's future husband, Dr. Jay J. Campbell, 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, then UAD president, wished to see Dr. Campbell and invited him to speak at the UAD convention in January 1973. He asked Beth Ann, then UAD secretary, to accompany him to interpret. She and David visited with Dr. Campbell, and he agreed to speak at the convention six months later. Dr. Campbell decided it would be a good idea to give his "talk" in sign language and went to Beth Ann's boss, Dr. Sanderson, and asked him if someone could teach him enough "signs" to give a presentation. Dr. Sanderson appointed Beth Ann to teach him. She accepted the challenge and became great friends (Beth Ann 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 (UAD Bulletin, June 1973). "I presented a ten-minute talk that took me 30 minutes to deliver in "signs," he said (Beth Ann 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. 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 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 movement and the decline of sign language in the educational system in the 1970s, Beth Ann often assisted Deaf educational advocates Dr. Sanderson and W. David Mortensen with interpreting while they were engaged in a constant battle with proponents of oral methods of deaf instruction. 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. UAD Bulletin, June 1973
Dr. Jay J. Campbell's Comprehensive Study, February 15, 1977
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 Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
Joseph B. Burnett. UAD Bulletin, June 1975
Between 1975 and 1980, Beth Ann volunteered as an interpreter in the right-hand corner of Channel 4 News TV screen for news broadcasts. The Utah Deaf community recalled seeing her on the News (Campbell, UAD Bulletin, March 1992). As shown in the photo published in the February 1972 issue of the UAD Bulletin, Beth Ann interpreted the news in 1972.
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell interpreting the Channel 4 News, 1972. UAD Bulletin, February 1972
When Dr. Sanderson retired as director of the Utah Community Center of the Deaf (UCCD) in 1985, he wrote in his book, "A Brief History of the Origins of the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing," about Beth Ann becoming the new director soon after:
"Dr. Judy Ann Buffmire, executive director of Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, appointed Beth Ann as director of the Utah Community Center of the Deaf. Beth Ann had worked for the Division of Rehabilitation as a professional level interpreter and aide for over 15 years, and was closely associated with the Center for the deaf programs. She was also a "CODA" – (Child of deaf parents) – and enjoyed considerable support among the deaf community, reflecting her advocacy and activism in behalf of deaf people (Sanderson, 2004)."
Looking back, Beth Ann replied, "This was a great honor for me, and I served in this position until I retired on March 13, 1992" (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012). According to the information provided in the "History of the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing," she served as an interpreter for years before becoming director, helping Deaf leaders lobby for funding for Utah Community Center for the Deaf through the legislative process (Sanderson, 2004). Without Beth Ann's assistance with interpreting, gaining funds for the center would have been more difficult due to communication challenges for the Deaf leaders.
"Dr. Judy Ann Buffmire, executive director of Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, appointed Beth Ann as director of the Utah Community Center of the Deaf. Beth Ann had worked for the Division of Rehabilitation as a professional level interpreter and aide for over 15 years, and was closely associated with the Center for the deaf programs. She was also a "CODA" – (Child of deaf parents) – and enjoyed considerable support among the deaf community, reflecting her advocacy and activism in behalf of deaf people (Sanderson, 2004)."
Looking back, Beth Ann replied, "This was a great honor for me, and I served in this position until I retired on March 13, 1992" (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012). According to the information provided in the "History of the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing," she served as an interpreter for years before becoming director, helping Deaf leaders lobby for funding for Utah Community Center for the Deaf through the legislative process (Sanderson, 2004). Without Beth Ann's assistance with interpreting, gaining funds for the center would have been more difficult due to communication challenges for the Deaf leaders.
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, Director of the Utah Center for the Deaf, 1985 – 1989
Beth Ann, the new Director of the Utah Community Center for the Deaf in Bountiful, Utah, highlighted the activities that were part of the educational and social events that took place at the UCCD:
• 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 deaf 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 bathrooms.
• 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 deaf 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 bathrooms.
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:
When Beth Ann retired, she wrote about the Utah Association of the Deaf in the April 1992 issue of the UAD Bulletin. 'Regarding my many years of service on the UAD Board,' she stated, 'I have extremely positive feelings about the UAD. I've grown close to many board members, and I believe the Association has been a strong force for the deaf community in Utah. "I hope they will continue to be strong advocates for the deaf in the future, and I wish them well," Campbell said in the UAD Bulletin in April 1992.
- 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 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.
When Beth Ann retired, she wrote about the Utah Association of the Deaf in the April 1992 issue of the UAD Bulletin. 'Regarding my many years of service on the UAD Board,' she stated, 'I have extremely positive feelings about the UAD. I've grown close to many board members, and I believe the Association has been a strong force for the deaf community in Utah. "I hope they will continue to be strong advocates for the deaf in the future, and I wish them well," Campbell said in the UAD Bulletin in April 1992.
Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, 1980s. Photo: Robert L. Bonnell
After retiring, she and Jay escorted Deaf and hearing visitors on cruises and bus tours. This was a fantastic experience for them. 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 a year beginning January 3, 2003. They then worked as missionaries at the Utah State Prison from March 2004 to July 22, 2009. They kept themselves busy with reading, church work, and Utah Daughters of the Pioneers. Jay directed the "Swanee Singers" and did some traveling (Beth Ann Campbell, personal communication, September 18, 2012).
To conclude, it is a privilege for the Utah Deaf community and the interpreting community in Utah to have Beth Ann as the state's and the country's first nationally certified interpreter. In addition, Beth Ann is highly recognized for going above and beyond to give great service to the Utah Deaf community, where she served as an interpreter and director. She had an impact on the structures and services associated with the Utah Deaf community. Most importantly, her commitment and contributions have significantly impacted those, as previously indicated, continued success.
To conclude, it is a privilege for the Utah Deaf community and the interpreting community in Utah to have Beth Ann as the state's and the country's first nationally certified interpreter. In addition, Beth Ann is highly recognized for going above and beyond to give great service to the Utah Deaf community, where she served as an interpreter and director. She had an impact on the structures and services associated with the Utah Deaf community. Most importantly, her commitment and contributions have significantly impacted those, as previously indicated, 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 Campbell, e-mail message to Jodi Becker Kinner, 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.
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.
“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.
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.
“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, the daughter of Lucy McMills Greenwood, a sign language interpreter and ASL teacher, served on the 1993 State Legislature Study Group to establish a formal interpreter training program and to recognize ASL as a foreign language in school settings. She even lobbied for rules and regulations in high school programs to prevent anyone on the street from teaching ASL without necessary credentials. During the 1994 Utah legislative session, Jean had network access to key members of the 1993 State Legislature Study Group. She was also a key advocate for Senate Bill 41, which certified interpreters, and Senate Bill 42, which granted American Sign Language the same status as a foreign language. Thanks to her lobbying efforts, both bills were passed.
Jean Greenwood Thomas, 2020
Jean Greenwood Thomas was born to a Deaf father, Virgil Rogers Greenwood, and a hearing mother, Lucy Pearl McMills, as a child of a deaf adult, abbreviated as CODA. Her father attended the Utah School for the Deaf (USD) in Ogden, Utah. He left USD for work in 1931, as was common for USD students at the time.
Jean grew up in the Utah Deaf community through her parents. 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 long-time member of the Utah Association of the Deaf, remarked that Jean's mother, Lucy, had significantly influenced Jean's decision to become an interpreter (Valerie G. Kinney, personal communication, January 9, 2013).
Jean grew up in the Utah Deaf community through her parents. 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 long-time member of the Utah Association of the Deaf, remarked that Jean's mother, Lucy, had significantly influenced Jean's decision to become an interpreter (Valerie G. Kinney, personal communication, January 9, 2013).
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. The ASL programs were approved by the Ogden School Board of Education and the Utah State Board of Education through the Technology Programs in the spring of 1990. From there, Jean started teaching ASL classes at Ogden High School.
While Jean was teaching ASL classes, Annette Tull, a CODA, and interpreter, expressed interest in teaching ASL classes at Jordan High School. Annette and Jean interpreted for the Institutional Council for the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind for many years. During the spring of 1993, Jean invited Cal Evans, a Jordan Special Education Director, to her high school class to see if they wanted to include ASL education in Jordan High School programs. Winefred Ospitile, who worked with the State of Utah's Vocational Education Department through the Ogden City School District, received approval from the Utah State Board of Education to provide ASL classes to complete high school credit for graduation through a vocational program. This curriculum was designed to help students become ASL interpreters. Moreover, after visiting Jean's class, Cal Evans approved Jordan High School to set up ASL classes in 1994. Annette secured a teaching position at that high school through Jean's help (Jean Thomas, personal communication, October 24, 2012).
While Jean was teaching ASL classes, Annette Tull, a CODA, and interpreter, expressed interest in teaching ASL classes at Jordan High School. Annette and Jean interpreted for the Institutional Council for the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind for many years. During the spring of 1993, Jean invited Cal Evans, a Jordan Special Education Director, to her high school class to see if they wanted to include ASL education in Jordan High School programs. Winefred Ospitile, who worked with the State of Utah's Vocational Education Department through the Ogden City School District, received approval from the Utah State Board of Education to provide ASL classes to complete high school credit for graduation through a vocational program. This curriculum was designed to help students become ASL interpreters. Moreover, after visiting Jean's class, Cal Evans approved Jordan High School to set up ASL classes in 1994. Annette secured a teaching position at that high school through Jean's help (Jean Thomas, personal communication, October 24, 2012).
Jean Greenwood Thomas and Shirley ___ Leavitt, a hearing child of Deaf parents, 1950s
At the same time, Jean served on the 1993 State Legislature Study Group to recognize interpreter state certification through a formal interpreter-training program and recognize American Sign Language as a foreign language in school settings. She also advocated for high school programs to have rules and regulations preventing anyone from teaching ASL without the proper credentials (Jean Thomas, personal communication, October 24, 2012). During the 1994 Utah Legislative Session, she had network access to the key members of the 1993 State Legislature Study Group. She was a major advocate for Senate Bill 41, certifying interpreters, and Senate Bill 42, granting American Sign Language the same status as a foreign language. As a result, both bills were passed.
Jean highlighted how ASL classes in high schools opened the path for Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) to endorse the fully funded interpreter-training program and to give ASL high school classes recognition as a foreign language and vocational credit toward graduation. When the Ogden City School District completed its sign language work, the SLCC was motivated to include their bid for ASL interpreting at the SLCC (Jean Thomas, personal communication, October 24, 2012). The majority of the work was completed thanks to the efforts of the Ogden City School District and Jean's perseverance.
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 highlighted how ASL classes in high schools opened the path for Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) to endorse the fully funded interpreter-training program and to give ASL high school classes recognition as a foreign language and vocational credit toward graduation. When the Ogden City School District completed its sign language work, the SLCC was motivated to include their bid for ASL interpreting at the SLCC (Jean Thomas, personal communication, October 24, 2012). The majority of the work was completed thanks to the efforts of the Ogden City School District and Jean's perseverance.
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
After the legislation was passed in the spring of 1994, Dr. Lee Robinson, 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. 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
Moreover, Jean is also a pioneer in the field of interpreting. 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 Utah's Deaf population's severe shortage of qualified interpreters (Golden Keys Award Program Book, 1999).
Jean has previously received the Ogden Standard-Examiner's "Apple for the Teacher" award as well as recognition 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).
Jean has previously received the Ogden Standard-Examiner's "Apple for the Teacher" award as well as recognition 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).
Jean Greenwood Thomas, 2020
As demonstrated above, Jean's energy and effort to improve her skills and support others are limitless (Golden Keys Award Program Book, 1999). She was active in the initial implementation of ASL classes in high schools with the backing of the Ogden City School District. She was one of those unseen people who worked behind the scenes. Like Jean, those who work behind the scenes deserve to be recognized for their contributions and her special assistance in strengthening the Utah interpreting community (Golden Keys Award Program Book, 1999). Jean is a pillar of strength for the Utah Deaf community.
Jean Thomas Greenwood and her husband Lee Thomas, husband, 2020
Notes
Jean Thomas, e-mail message to Jodi Becker Kinner. October 24, 2012.
Valerie G. Kinney, e-mail message to Jodi Becker Kinner, January 9, 2013.
Valerie G. Kinney, e-mail message to Jodi Becker Kinner, 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 established the first interpreting training program at Salt Lake Community College in Salt Lake City, Utah, in the fall of 1990. Annette became active in politics while working as a Sign Language interpreter, interpreter instructor, and American Sign Language teacher, supporting Senate Bill 41, certifying interpreters, and Senate Bill 42, providing American Sign Language the same status as a foreign language. As a result, both bills were passed in 1994. Annette is credited with working with the Utah Deaf community to expand interpreting services and get American Sign Language recognized as a foreign language.
Annette May Thorup Tull @ 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 @ 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 @ 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 (ASL), and trained interpreters at Salt Lake Community College (SLCC). 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 (FRCC). This college received various grants from the Department of Rehabilitation beginning in 1982 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 in the instruction of some of the workshops. She became RID certified at the time when just a few people in Utah had RID 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 (FRCC). This college received various grants from the Department of Rehabilitation beginning in 1982 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 in the instruction of some of the workshops. She became RID certified at the time when just a few people in Utah had RID 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 @ 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).
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 @ 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 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 SLCC 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 us to see her interpret 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 SLCC 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 us to see her interpret 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 @ FamilySearch.org
Jean Greenwood Thomas' Letter of Recommendation for Annette May Thorup Tull @ FamilySearch.org
While working as an interpreter and SLCC instructor, Annette expressed an interest in teaching ASL at Jordan High School to her friend, Jean Greenwood Thomas, a CODA interpreter and ASL teacher at Ogden School District. Thanks to Jean's efforts, Jordan High School's ASL lessons were approved through state authority channels one year later. Annette's dream of teaching ASL at Jordan High School began in 1994 (Jean 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, FRCC's soft money financing for the SLCC Interpreter Training Program was ending; she likely knew that continuous funding was needed (Jean 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). As a result, both bills were 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!" (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, FRCC's soft money financing for the SLCC Interpreter Training Program was ending; she likely knew that continuous funding was needed (Jean 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). As a result, both bills were 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!" (Storrer, personal communication, September 27, 2012).
Annette May Thorup Tull, 1980. Photo: Robert Bonnell
Annette continued to teach ASL classes at Jordan High School after the bills were passed, until her death on December 13, 1997, at 49, from complications from diabetes. Following her death, Marilyn T. 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 @ FamilySearch,org
After her death, the Annette Tull Lifetime Achievement Award was named after her. Annette was a champion of ASL, Deaf Culture, interpreting, and CODA awareness in her day. She is also credited with advocating for the Utah Deaf community to expand interpreting programs and recognize American Sign Language as a foreign language.
In Tribute to Annette May Thorup Tull from Mitch Jensen. UTRID Newsletter, December 1997 @ FamilySearch.org
Annette May Thorup Tull @ FamilySearch.org
Notes
Ann Topliff, e-mail message to Jodi Becker Kinner. October 27, 2012.
Dan Mathis, e-mail message to Jodi Becker Kinner, October 5, 2012.
Jean Thomas, e-mail message to Jodi Becker Kinner. October 24, 2012.
Jennifer Storrer, e-mail message to Jodi Becker Kinner, September 27, 2012.
Dan Mathis, e-mail message to Jodi Becker Kinner, October 5, 2012.
Jean Thomas, e-mail message to Jodi Becker Kinner. October 24, 2012.
Jennifer Storrer, e-mail message to Jodi Becker Kinner, 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
