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Purpose
The Heritage Sign Languages Center's mission is to support all diverse Deaf and hard of hearing individuals and allies in reclaiming their cultural identities and heritage languages in multicultural communities across the United States.
Mission
The Heritage Sign Languages Center is committed to evaluating multicultural communities by celebrating, recognizing, and embracing cultural heritage sign languages and intersectional identities through a multicultural lens in families, educational settings and interactive communities.
Vision
Families, educational environments, and communities play an increasingly important role in the lives of deaf people from the time they are born until they are able to embrace their intersecting identities, acquire language, and feel a sense of belonging.
Advisory Board
Danny Lucero A Life of Heritage, Passion, and Dedication
Danny Lucero was born in Clovis, New Mexico, in the warmth of his family's home, as his young mother, who carried Deafness in her genes, could not afford medical care. From a young age, Danny was immersed in a world where Deaf culture and community were integral to his identity. His educational journey began at the New Mexico School for the Deaf (NMSD) in Santa Fe, where he was joined by his oldest brother and youngest sibling. The tradition of attending NMSD runs deep in his family, with four members having walked its halls and two still enrolled. Danny's heritage is a vibrant tapestry of Navajo, Apache, and Chicano roots. This rich cultural background has profoundly influenced his identity and career, leading him to embrace his many talents. As a dancer, actor, and presenter, Danny's work is a testament to his diverse skills and his dedication to celebrating his cultural and spiritual heritage. Driven by a deep curiosity about Public Law 1942, which impacted the education of Deaf students, Danny transitioned from NMSD to a mainstream school, broadening his educational horizons. His quest for knowledge continued at the Southwest Collegiate Institute for the Deaf (SWCID) in Big Spring, Texas. There, he joined the performing troupe "MUSIGN," alongside Rita Corey, Ed Chevy, and Bob Hiltermann, now known as "Beethoven’s Nightmare," a groundbreaking band for the Deaf and hard of hearing. Danny furthered his education at Gallaudet University, where he earned a degree in Deaf Studies. His time at Gallaudet was marked by active participation in significant events like “Deaf Way” and the “Deaf President Now Movement,” reflecting his commitment to the Deaf community. In the 90s, he served as vice-president of the Intertribal Deaf Council, a role he held with pride until the council's dissolution. Danny's personal life is as fulfilling as his professional one. He has been happily married to a remarkable woman from Slovakia, and together they have raised two accomplished children. Their son graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Electrical Engineering, while their daughter is a senior at Gallaudet University, majoring in Psychology and earning a spot on the Dean’s Honor List. His wife, an entrepreneur, runs her own business, “Kova Kandles.” Professionally, Danny is a dedicated Job Developer for the Deaf Community Resource Center (DCRC) in Dayton/Springfield, OH. His role allows him to continue serving his community and making a difference in the lives of others. As a proud grandfather, Danny delights in spending time with his beautiful granddaughter. Danny Lucero's unique talents include his passion for powwow dancing, drumming, storytelling, and acting. He has been featured in several ASL books and videos, showcasing his diverse abilities and commitment to Deaf culture. His life, enriched by his love for the Holy Spirit, is a testament to his many gifts and his dedication to a life of beauty and service.
Antines "NuNu" Davis
Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, I was originally enrolled at the William Baer School in Baltimore City, Maryland, for a few years until ultimately attending the Maryland School for the Deaf-Columbia and Frederick Campuses, respectively, graduating from the latter in 1985. In 1985, I joined the Model Secondary School for the Deaf’s Post Enrichment Program, attended Gallaudet University, and eventually attended North Central Bible University in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where I received a B.A. in Pastoral Studies.
Kavita Pipalia Owner, Better Life for a Change
Kavita Pipalia, from India, leads Better Life for a Change, offering business consulting services. Former President of the California Association of the Deaf, co-founder of KODAWest, and Executive Director of Global Deaf Aid Foundation, she advocates for Deaf community accommodations and inclusion.
Jasmine Garcia-Freeland
Born and raised in New York City, I am an inspirational, motivational speaker dedicated to spreading awareness and loving and uplifting others worldwide. Follow me on my journey to inspire and empower people to shine their brightest. Join me at @ShinewithJaz and be part of a global movement.
Zen Momprehmier
Gallery
Meet the Advisory Board
The HSLC Advisory Board works hard to provide direction and vision for our organization. We are proud of our advisory board for their outstanding contribution to HSLC's success.
Click on the images to view the team member's biography.
Danny Lucero
Antines "NuNu" Davis
Kavita Pipala
Jasmine Garcia-Freeland
Brenda Perrodin
Kristy McKeller
Joseph Lopez
Claire Decker
Marvella Sellers
Juan Bernal
LeeAnn Tang
Diana Meade
Patrice Creamer
Candace Jones, BSW, M.Ed
HSLC Director
Who is Candace Jones? Candace has over 16 years of experience working in the Deaf, BIPOC Deaf, and Deaf with Disabilities educational communities. She has worked as an educator, motivational speaker, advocate, and change agent. Candace is in charge of the Heritage Sign Languages Center (HSLC) at Gallaudet University, which launched on March 17, 2022. Candace's main goal for the HSLC is to provide multicultural education and to assist others in learning about different cultures in varied environments including: schools, training sessions, conferences, workshops, family services, and community events. Her belief is that all human beings from all walks of life have an equal right to thrive as individuals. Motto: When people embrace intersectional backgrounds, we can thrive together regardless of race, sexual orientation, religion, gender, or ethnicity.
Office of the Chief Bilingual Officer
As university experiences evolve, Gallaudet University is more dedicated than ever to delivering a top-notch bilingual education in a successful, nurturing environment where our Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind and DeafDisabled stakeholders can thrive openly in American Sign Language (ASL) and written English. Members of the Gallaudet community will have the ability to address and resolve complex problems, to contribute to professional and social networks, to understand the importance of physical and emotional wellness, and finally to learn for the rest of their lives and careers through the lens of ASL and English bilingualism, diversity, equity and inclusion. The University established the Office of the Chief Bilingual Officer in January 2020.
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