Deaf and Hard of Hearing

History

Winona State University began providing interpreting services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students in 1986.   Since then the University has served students both on campus and as a resource to area educational institutions.  There is an approximate 2:3 interpreter/student ratio.  The small University setting and skilled interpreters, attract students who are seeking an institution that provides large school quality in a small community atmosphere.

Benefits Of Student Integration

Having the Deaf community on campus provides students with exposure to a new culture and language.  This opens the door to a better understanding of people with disabilities.  American Sign Language can benefit any major, and encourages all students to become involved within the Deaf community.

Benefits Of Classroom Integration

Many professors at WSU are accustomed to a variety of student accommodations in their classroom.  The Coordinator of Services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students will contact the professors prior to providing services to suggest ways in which they can more effectively integrate students into the classroom experience.

Specific Services Available

Winona State provides many different services to Deaf and Hard of Hearing students to help integrate them into college life.  Services included are interpreting services, notetaking, accessible residence hall rooms, and media services.  The Coordinator of Services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing mediates between the interpreter, the student, and the professor to keep an open line of communication and ensure the best services possible.

How To Receive Services

To receive services contact Patty McCutcheon, the Coordinator for Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing students at (651)695-3717, voice/TTY/fax, who will assist with any and all accommodations within the guidelines of the American with Disability Act (ADA). For information regarding an accessible residence hall room, contact the Department of Housing and Residence Life at (507) 457-5306.

What Is The ASL Club?

The American Sign Language Club (ASLC) at Winona State University was founded by a group of students.  Since that time the ASLC has made great strides to increase awareness and knowledge of Deaf culture and American Sign Language through club sponsored community events.

The club promotes the exchange of languages and guidance in understanding each others' cultures through fun activities such as silent socials and movies, ASL scavenger hunts, singsong workshops, an annual picnic and volleyball tournament, spontaneous game nights, and artistically interpreted concerts.

The club meets twice a month with meeting times posted on the door of the club's office which is located in the lower hyphen of Kryzsko Commons.  Feel free to stop in any time for more information or just to socialize.  Everyone is welcome.