Mount Hood

Deep dive into the American Sign Language at Western

February 26, 2025

Written by: Hannah Field | Editor-in-Chief

American Sign Language has a rich and profound history across the country — but is a rare program to encounter in higher education. Few colleges along the West Coast offer American Sign Language courses beyond the beginning levels — Western, however, offers two degree paths, a minor and a master’s program.

The American Sign Language studies program at Western, on average, carries 15 students per class through 60 required credits of classes, beginning with the basic models of ASL and leading into a variety of additional classes, such as Deaf history, mental health in the Deaf community and deafblind studies.

For roughly half a century, Western has been serving the Deaf community in Monmouth, Oregon. Some current staff of Western in the ASL department, with examples such as Brent Redpath, LeShonDre Brown and Elisa Maroney, attended Western in prior years. 

Historically, Western showcases success in instructing the future interpreters of America. Western was the first base for a national ASL assessment service in the West as of 2020 — a testament to Western’s dedication to American Sign Language proficiency testing for anyone interested in their fluency level.

The two Bachelor of Arts programs — American Sign Language studies and interpreting studies: theory — differ, despite common misconceptions about the programs. American Sign Language studies, according to Western’s website, helps foster knowledge of ASL in a way that promotes respect for Deaf culture, history and community. “You will not only continue to hone your ASL skills, but you will also study areas such as linguistics, language acquisition, cultural competency and mental health and learn how this information can serve the (Deaf) population.”

Other higher education institutions may refer to their version of ASL studies as Deaf studies or, potentially, be known as simply American Sign Language.

Elisa Maroney, current program co-coordinator of the ASL branch of the interpreting program and certified interpreter, helped construct the ASL studies program curriculum at Western in its prime, alongside Debi Duren. The program originated from the interpreting program, which found its footing first at Western.

“Our program is a study of the language, the culture, the history. For ASL studies, we’re often a more foundational program — students have that skill in ASL that they can use for the next step in their lives, which might be a graduate program, or it could be related to their career that requires an ASL background,” said Brent Redpath, American Sign Language studies program coordinator. Redpath has been working diligently at Western since 2012 and has become a well-respected professor — often harboring full classes with a waitlist each term.

Redpath, as program coordinator, schedules classes, makesing sure each class is properly staffed with instructors, balancesing course loads for faculty, addressesing student concerns and assistsing in conflict management amongst students. Redpath wholeheartedly represents the ASL program — his face and name are well-known in the Richard Woodcock Education Center — RWEC — where the majority of ASL classes take place.

Predominantly, classes in ASL are taught by deaf professors. ASL language classes — 101 through 303 — follow this model earnestly.

“It’s very nice to have native users of a language who are instructing in their native language,” said Redpath. “And to receive language and culture directly from a deaf person. Nothing against hearing people, don’t get me wrong — but their experiences will be different than a person who grew up as a Deaf individual. They’re going to have a different background, and they won’t be able to speak to that perspective in the same way a Deaf person can.”

With this in mind, ASL classes are regarded as “Deaf classrooms.”

“You might notice as you come into class that we have our tables set up in a U-shape, which is different from other classes. That’s how we always teach so that every student in the class can see each other. It’s a visual language,” said Redpath. “It’s important that we can all see each other, that I can see the students and they can see me.”

The RWEC boasts glass panels in the wall, allowing professors to see what’s happening in the hallways and beyond — a common Deaf-friendly window style. Redpath personally acted in the committee that assisted with designing the RWEC. “I was able to offer some tips and ideas for how to make this building a more Deaf-friendly space,” said Redpath. Additionally, the topic of what makes a Deaf-friendly space is discussed in class to teach on Deaf culture and respect.

Deaf classrooms are also deadly quiet to the average hearing person.

“It is dead silent … The way you can just hear a pin drop — the way people can hear you swallow wrong,” laughed junior Abby Money. “And then the two people on your left hear it and you have to say, ‘sorry, I’m hungry today.’”

Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the ASL studies program; staff has been reduced, as have extra class options. As of 2025, Western has two full-time ASL studies staff members, alongside five part-time employees. Ideally, the program will be able to restore more staff members, in-person classes and more classes and class times.

Functionally, ASL classes utilize Canvas and GoReact for exams, homework and lessons. GoReact is a video-based system, allowing students to upload videos of their exams and receive direct feedback. 

ASL students, if struggling, may resort to the tutoring center for additional assistance with their signing fluency. Ideally, students will continue to participate in the Deaf community. “I always encourage students to be involved,” said Redpath. “It’s not enough to just go to ASL classes and be done. You can’t thrive that way … There is actually an ASL hall in the dorms, where you can have extra opportunities to socialize outside of class time.”

The ASL club on campus is a good resource for students to gain signing experience and practice with their peers.

Redpath’s classes involve three exams per term and weekly assignments. Students meet in small groups to practice for a grade on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, depending on the instructor’s choice.

“The ASL studies program is one of the biggest language programs that we offer on campus, and administration at Western has recognized us for that. We appreciate their support for our program,” said Redpath. “We felt their involvement in making our program successful … We hope (the program) will continue to grow even larger in the future. Of course, things are different now in post-COVID days, but we really hope to be back to what we were before. It’s a really important program — to me and to the university.”

As for Redpath — “My favorite part of this job is definitely working with the students. I teach a variety of classes, I work with diverse students from diverse backgrounds. And they’re not just learning from me — I’m learning from them.”

For junior Dylan Meader, Redpath stands out as a professor. “His teaching style is really effective for me,” explained Meader. “I’ve had good experiences with all the professors here, but I feel I respond best to his methods of teaching — he’s just a really nice guy.”

Meader gravitated to American Sign Language in high school, needing to fulfill a language requirement and finding it fulfilling beyond his initial expectations. 

“There’s not a single school in Washington that has the interpreting program, and that was something I really wanted to pursue,” said Meader. “I decided to look out of state, and the closest to my home in Bellingham, Washington, was Western. So I applied and I toured. It was something that I liked — so I decided to go for it … it’s been really great so far.”

Maroney attests that somewhere between one-third to one-half of ASL interpreting students in any given year are from out of state — such as juniors Abby Money and Meader.

Money, like Meader, hails from another state. Money grew up in Templeton, California, and Monmouth has been her first taste of life somewhere else.

“It was really scary for me moving here because I had, genuinely, never lived anywhere else on my own,” said Money. “Being fully immersed in the classes, I was so scared starting college. It was a nice surprise — it was worth it.”

Often, Redpath or LeShonDre Brown are the first faces students see when entering the program at 101.

“I went in, freaking out,” said Money, describing her first term with Redpath in ASL 201. “I was so scared. I was like, ‘he’s deaf. What if he doesn’t understand a word I’m saying?’ Spoiler alert — he did. He understood me.”

Western’s interpreting program hopes to help fulfill the country’s growing need for ASL interpreters. At Western, the program is available entirely online to support that goal, so more students from other states can pursue interpreting.

Interpreting, as a class subject, requires focus and drive. Students learn that professional interpreting requires no distracting clothing or accessories, and that hair must be out of the face. Recorded videos must be in good quality and against a blank backdrop.

Videos and exams follow any number of subjects. Often, they rely on translating English into ASL and then signing that statement.

Maroney has been working at Western since 1993 but previously received a certificate in interpreting from the college in prior years. Maroney even found herself at Gallaudet for her master’s — an iconic, and vastly important, college, leading the charge in Deaf education.

Eventually, Western’s undergraduate program will re-incorporate a crucial internship — “Our hope was that by having a graduate program, we could sort of guide students and provide them with supervision opportunities to, then, be more ready to work. The problem is that not everyone chooses to go on to (get their master’s) and they aren’t ready to work if they don’t have that internship piece,” said Maroney. “It is a lifelong learning process. You can’t get your bachelor’s degree and be one-and-done. You have to keep working on your language, on your interpreting, on your cultural experiences and knowledge.”

Chances are the ASL program, in any branch, will continue to evolve. “Everything is in flux,” said Maroney. “We try things, and if it doesn’t work, we try something else. I think it’s an exciting time right now — a little bit unnerving at the moment — but we have searches going on. We’re looking for two ASL studies faculty and one interpreting studies faculty.”

Additionally, Maroney recommends students look into scholarships. The interpreting program is, typically, six years long — meaning the cost can be heavy alongside already taxing work.

As for student-to-student advice, Meader has his own: “(Don’t be) intimidated, especially if you’re brand new to learning ASL and interacting with the Deaf community. Trust yourself. And have fun, it’s a lot of fun.”

“It gets easier,” said Money. “Your receptive skills get better. And when someone’s signing to you and you catch on, you’re like, ‘oh, wait, I’m actually getting this now.’ It’s not something that you’re panicking over, cause I remember panicking.”

Some staff in the program teach truly because they just enjoy the program, often working other jobs — Alethea Boyer-Mularski teaches full-time at Oregon School for the Deaf, showing up for her 5 p.m. 300-level ASL instruction classes after a full day of work.

“I teach at WOU because it’s where my teaching journey began nearly 18 years ago. Deb Duren, who was then the ASL Studies Program Coordinator, hired me despite my lack of teaching experience at the time, recognizing potential in me. Over time, my love for teaching grew, and I developed a desire to share my knowledge of ASL, Deaf culture and the Deaf community,” said Boyer-Mularski. “During the day, I work at Oregon School for the Deaf, and in the evenings, I teach hearing students at WOU. It’s a rewarding contrast — teaching Deaf students their true language while introducing ASL to hearing students.”

Western’s launch of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education Program — 2015-2021 — had Boyer-Mularski in one of the first cohorts. After a six-year hiatus starting in 2017, Boyer-Mularski has since returned to the college.

“It was amazing. I love Alethea. She definitely helped my receptive skills a lot (because) she’s a much quicker signer. That was a lot of fun, being thrown into that,” said Money.

Additionally, Money regards the language with a lot of love. “It’s important to me because it kind of reminds me of where I come from a little bit. I took it originally for my friend, for her and her brother, because she was going to teach it to him. And then I just fell in love with it — it’s a beautiful language.”

“ASL is more than just a language — it’s the heart of Deaf identity and culture. I encourage students (and) faculty to appreciate its true beauty and respect its vital role in the Deaf community,” said Boyer-Mularski.

Meader has appreciated Western’s program so much that he’s opting to pursue his master’s at Western in interpreting. “The staff and the professors in the ASL and interpreting programs have been so supportive and encouraging … and I think that’s what’s made me want to continue, as opposed to (an) experience I had in high school where I almost quit learning ASL because my first teacher said something very harsh and awful to me about my signing, but I’ve just had really good experiences with the professors here,” he said. “Regarding the interpreting program, I think the professors do a really great job at preparing you and setting you up for success. It feels like they really care about you and think about you as more than just a student. Like they really want to set you up for future success as an interpreter or whatever you decide to do with ASL.”

Contact the author at howleditorinchief@wou.edu

Salem speaks out

February 12, 2025

Written by: Hannah Field | Editor-in-Chief

At approximately noon Wednesday, Feb. 5, hundreds of protesters lined up on both sides of Center Street north of the Oregon State Capitol building in defiance of President Trump, the deportation of illegal immigrants, Project 2025, Palestine’s destruction and Elon Musk. Oregonians came together for the 50501 movement, calling for 50 protests in 50 states in one day.

Many boasted signs and flags in respect to a variety of issues surfacing in America. Various chants rose above car horns blasting from supporters driving past: “This is what democracy looks like,” “We’re not going back,” “Hey, hey, ho, ho, Elon Musk has got to go,” “Be loud, be clear, immigrants are welcome here” and “Free, free, free Palestine.”

“Today I’m here in solidarity with all working class people … we are facing — this has been an issue since forever — but right now, we’re at the precipice of some serious change,” said one protestor. “It’s important for people to show up, but there are people who are physically disabled who can’t be here, and I’m here representing my friends who can’t come out and be in the streets, but they’re also an integral part of our movement. We all matter.”

One woman — @theladyofportland on TikTok — was seen live streaming from atop her car, standing over the crowd. “I’m here to deport Musk and impeach Trump,” she said. “(I’m streaming because) I have a lot of followers. Because we’re at a protest, the biggest protest since Black Lives Matter — it’s even bigger than Portland’s (protest.)”

Multiple American flags flew, alongside various Pride flags and transgender flags. Some signs referenced educational concerns alongside reproductive rights.

According to the 50501 movement, more than 60 protests across 40 states have been arranged and turnout has amassed 72,000 participants nationwide.

Fourth-year Western student Desiree Hite, who attended the protest, stated, “Everybody matters. Everybody’s equal. Everybody deserves to live here and be here.”

Contact the author at howleditorinchief@mail.wou.edu

Happy birthday, Western

Written by: Hannah Field | Editor-in-Chief

Jan. 18, 1856 — 169 long years ago — Western was founded by 11 Disciples of Christ, originally titled Monmouth University. They were hoping to create a united community in their religion, which did, in its own way over time, become a tight-knit intermingling of students, professors and others, although without the faith originally in mind. Instead, the Western community honors their devotion to academic excellence and the Western way — a tailored educational experience, boasting small class sizes, caring professional staff, educational resources and a safe, walkable campus. Or, in Western’s words, “(commitment) to changing lives, strengthening communities and transforming our world.”

Western is the oldest public university in the state of Oregon, as well as an NCAA Division II institution, harboring a diverse population of students from underrepresented groups, veterans and especially first generation college students, notably recognized by the college.

Thanks to settlers who donated land and money, as well as financial support from local government members, Western came to fruition amongst a trying time in the 1850s, when customs and traditions were clashing with new age movements. Western, despite its religious founding, became an established center for training teachers for public and private schools, becoming Oregon State Normal School in 1882. It closed for a year after lack of funds and reopened as Oregon Normal School — hence the former “Lamron” title of “The Western Howl” paper. If unsure, read it backwards — not a very “normal” concept.

To add on to the normal trend: Western’s athletic teams, prior to 1928, were known as “The Normals.” Yeah, really regular.

Western adopted multiple other names over time: Christian College (1865-82); Oregon State Normal School (1882-1909); Oregon Normal School (1911-39); Oregon College of Education (1931-81); Western Oregon State College (1981-1997); and lastly, the current title, from 1997 to the present.

Throughout the last 169 years, Western hosted some significant and unforgettable events — as well as stories. In 1962, American Communist Party Secretary Gus Hall delivered a controversial speech at the Oregon College of Education, inciting an uproar. The event was later dubbed the “Gus Hall Affair.”

Previously, Hall had spent years running away from the IRS, after having been convicted of fraud and forgery in an election and had even been imprisoned after attempts to overthrow the American government, posted bail, fled to Mexico City and then was re-imprisoned. And, then, 11 years later, someone invited Gus Hall to speak at Western — nice move.

In less exciting, but still important, history, the 123-foot Sequoia tree in the middle of campus used for the annual holiday tree lighting was planted by the class of 1887. 

Columbus Day, Oct. 12, 1962, Campbell Hall lost its iconic tower structure in a massive storm overtaking Oregon, the crash photographed by student Wes Luchau. The storm, titled the Columbus Day Storm, has been tied directly to Luchau’s photo, even after more than 50 years.

Many of the buildings on campus are named after graduates of Western that went on to make notable accomplishments or titles, such as John H. Ackerman, former president of Oregon Normal School. He helped to secure adequate and stable funding for the school. In 2010, Ackerman Hall was named in his honor, incorporating housing and classrooms in an energy-efficient building.

Todd Hall was named after former Dean of Students Jessica Todd. The building was erected in 1912, closely followed by The Cottage in 1917. Todd, having retired in 1931 and passing away in 1944, was fondly remembered by the college community, but also regarded as being a stern, protective and respected woman.

Here comes the interesting part — it’s been told that Todd’s ghost still roams Western’s campus, looking over the students and the dormitories, as she once had so diligently. Possibly a myth, but in order to discover the truth, one might have to ask around or take a visit to one of Western’s oldest buildings.

In more recent news, Western was picked as the focus for the Amazon Prime Video television show, “The College Tour,” in 2024. And — not to bring myself into one of Western’s most accomplished moments — I was featured in B-roll for the episode, partaking in maybe the most awkward conversation I’ve ever had in American Sign Language. They had me sign a waiver and gave me a sticker, which might be worth the embarrassment. I only have myself to blame, after all.

Speaking of American Sign Language, the ASL program, as well as the Education program, continue to be vital to Western. After all, it was the Oregon College of Education, finding its footing by training teachers all those years ago — 169 is nothing to scoff at.

Despite its many name changes, “normalcy,” previous scandals — looking at you, Gus Hall — and potential ghosts, Western has become a beloved part of many students, professors and others’ lives, showcasing a gorgeous campus, with compassionate staff, enticing classes and endless opportunities. If there’s any time to be grateful, it makes sense to celebrate on Western’s birthday Jan. 18, potentially by toasting to Campbell’s lost tower or mourning the loss of the former publishing name “The Lamron” — I admit, it’s a lot funnier than “The Western Howl.”

Contact the author at howleditorinchief@wou.edu

Upcoming events

Written by: Hannah Field | News Editor

May 23 — 

The S’More You Know

6 p.m. at the firepit outside of the Werner University Center

Join the Office of Student Conduct in roasting marshmallows and making s’mores outside on campus with a chance to walk away with some prizes.

May 24 —

4-Hour Workshop with Jessica Rehfield Community Building: Safety Concerns

12 p.m. in Campbell Hall

Salem artist, Jessica Rehfield, will be returning to offer advice, feedback and reviews on previously submitted artistic proposals. This event will be open to all students and campus organization affiliates.

ASL Club: ASL Club’s 30th Birthday

6 p.m. in RWEC 101

The ASL Club will be celebrating 30 years of registered clubhood on campus. The event will be held in ASL only.

May 28 —

ASL Club: Video Game Night

6 p.m. in RWEC 202

Catch the ASL Club hosting a group game night in ASL only. The calendar posting cheers “Let’s go, gamers!”

May 29 —

Free Meditation Group on Campus

6 p.m. in the Santiam Room of the Werner University Center

“Join us Wednesday night for gentle yoga stretches, guided meditation, Yoga Nidra and kirtan music meditation.”

John Proctor is The Villain: Spring Theatre Department Production

At a rural high school in Georgia, a group of lively teens are studying ‘The Crucible’ while navigating young love, sex ed, and a few school scandals. Holding a contemporary lens to the American classic, they begin to question who is really the hero and what is the truth, discovering their own power in the process. Alternately touching and bitingly funny, this new comedy captures a generation in mid-transformation, running on pop music, optimism, and fury, writing their own coming of age story.”

According to the calendar description, Guest Faculty Director Raissa Fleming will be directing, and the play will run May 29, 30, 31 and June 1 at 2 p.m. and again at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 31 at 7:30 p.m. and June 1 at 2 p.m. will be interpreted in ASL. The show will be viewed in Rice Auditorium at 344 Knox St N, Monmouth, OR. Lot B on Knox Street will host free parking.

Students get in free with their student ID. General admission tickets are $14, while student general admission is $8. Tickets for senior citizens and Western faculty and staff are $10.

“Advisory: John Proctor is the Villain contains racist/sexist micro aggressions, depictions of grooming and abusive relationship dynamics, discussion of sexual assault and exploitation.”

May 31 —

Ho’ike 2024

5 p.m. in the Pacific Room of the Werner University Center

“In Hawaiian, Ho’ike means ‘to show or exhibit.’ Ho’ike at (Western) is a show that will exhibit our culture through student performances. Similar to a Luau experience, at Ho’ike, you get to enjoy Hula performances, a traditional Hawaiian dinner, a chance to win local/Hawaiian goods and so much more.”

Tickets for Western students cost $12 and public tickets are $15.

June 4 —

ASL Club – Deaf LGBTQ+ Panel

6 p.m. in RWEC 202

In celebration of Pride month, ASL Club will be hosting a panel acknowledging Deaf Queer individuals and groups. The event will be in ASL only.

June 5 —

Groove in the Grove

8 p.m.

“Get groovy” and participate in plenty of activities, games and DJ performances.

Contact the author at howlnews@mail.wou.edu