Signs of the times webinar
edition 1: current events aslized
Join us for Signs of the Times: Current Events ASLized – Edition 1, a dynamic 2-hour webinar led by Jason and Alex, designed to expand your ASL vocabulary and fluency around today’s most pressing issues. We’ll explore real-world topics: from political and social tensions in the U.S., to the rise of the new Pope, to key developments in the Deaf community. Whether you’re an interpreter, an ASL student, or simply looking to stay informed through a signed lens, this session will give you the tools to discuss current events in clear, culturally nuanced ASL.
Presented By
Jason Gervase
Instructor
I’m Jason Gervase, a native of sunny Scottsdale, Arizona, where I was born Deaf and raised by a Deaf mother. I attended Phoenix Day School for the Deaf for five years before my educational journey led me elsewhere. Along the way, I’ve lived in diverse places such as New York, Italy, and Mexico. Holding a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Arizona State University, I now call Tucson my home.
Since 2010, I’ve dedicated myself to teaching American Sign Language. This journey has brought me to the University of Arizona, where I serve as a Senior Lecturer, and to the Siena School of Liberal Arts in Italy, where I contribute as a Professor. My teachings in ASL and Deaf Culture reach beyond the traditional classroom, extending to students from all walks of life. In the summer of 2021, I took a leap and started ASL Pinnacle. My aim was simple: to provide a welcoming space for anyone eager to master ASL, without the demands of formal college-level courses.
Languages are my passion. In addition to ASL and English, I’m fluent in Italian, Italian Sign Language, Spanish, and Portuguese. My love for languages stems from my travels and deep commitment to cultural connection and understanding.
When the teaching cap’s off, and I’m not jet-setting, you can find me spending time with my dogs, lifting weights, or hiking.
Alex Lynch
Instructor
I’m Alex Lynch, the Director of the American Sign Language, Deaf Studies, and Educational Interpreting program at the University of Arizona. A native ASL user, I attended the New York School for the Deaf at Fanwood and Model Secondary School for the Deaf before continuing my education. My journey in ASL education began in 2007 with community ASL classes, and I’ve remained committed to strengthening ASL education, expanding access to Deaf Studies, and supporting the next generation of interpreters.
I’ve been teaching ASL at the university level since 2011, with experience at the University of Arizona, the University of Vermont, and Middlebury College. Along the way, I pursued an MBA from the University of Arizona, which included studying in Vienna, Austria, where I developed working proficiency in Austrian Sign Language. I am now pursuing a Ph.D. in Higher Education, focusing my research on accessibility, sense of belonging, and institutional responsibility in supporting Deaf and hard of hearing students.
When I’m not in the classroom or researching, you’ll likely find me exploring vegan cuisine, brewing, or spending time with my life partner and our dog, Winnie.
Who should attend?
ASL Students ✅
Interpreting Students ✅
CEU Seekers ✅
requirements
- Please use a laptop or desktop computer only – phones and tablets are not permitted to ensure full access to Zoom features.
- Download the Zoom app (free) before joining. Do not use the web version, as it limits viewing and chat functionality.
- Both presenters will be on the same screen and we will be sharing slides, so we recommend using side-by-side speaker mode or full-screen mode to follow along comfortably.
cost and registration
Standard Registration: $25
CEUs Registration: $30 (includes processing fees)
Policies
- Cancellations made on or before Thursday, July 17th are eligible for a refund minus a $10 processing fee.
- No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than one week before the webinar.
This webinar includes discussion of sensitive topics and potentially polarizing viewpoints. Our goal is to foster an educational environment rooted in mutual respect, cultural humility, and critical thinking. We ask that all contributions during the webinar reflect a spirit of non-discrimination and respectful dialogue.
Limited Spots Available! Sign up early to secure your seat.
📅 Registration Deadline: Thursday, July 17, 2025, at 11:59 PM PDT