Established in 2006, the American Sign Language Honor Society (ASLHS) has made significant contributions to the field of ASL education. Our primary objective is to foster and acknowledge exceptional academic achievement in ASL studies among high school and college/university students. Similar to honor societies for other languages, ASLHS aims to enhance the learning experience for ASL learners. As an ASL Honor Society member, you can enjoy a range of benefits, including:

Recognition of academic excellence through the awarding of Honor Cords and Medals.

Opportunities for engaging in service learning projects that benefit the ASL community.

Participation in the prestigious Annual Deaf Art and ASL Literature Competitions, featuring cash prizes.

Access to exclusive national scholarships for students majoring or minoring in ASL, Deaf Studies, Deaf Education, and Interpreter Education. Additionally, college scholarships are available for Deaf students pursuing general degrees.

Financial support for ASL education through grants for teachers to procure equipment or materials for classroom use.

It is important to note that the ASL Honor Society operates as an add-on program under the American Sign Language Teacher’s Association (ASLTA), and serves as one of the valuable benefits of ASLTA membership.

To encourage and recognize high academic achievement in American Sign Language studies for middle schools, high schools, Deaf schools, and college/university students. Deaf and hearing student participants will serve as steadfast advocates of the Deaf community, encourage Deaf and hearing people come together in unity worldwide, and demonstrate commitment to scholarship, community service, and personal excellence. 

Studies from San Diego Mesa College and a Master of Arts in Teaching ASL from the University of Northern Colorado, and she is currently a doctoral candidate at the American College of Education. Sabrina serves as an adjunct professor at San Diego City College and National University and previously served for two years as the Competitions Coordinator for the American Sign Language Honor Society (ASLHS). Originally from Brazil, she began learning Brazilian Sign Language (Libras) at age 17 before moving to the United States, where she learned ASL, English, and Spanish. Her multilingual and multicultural experiences have shaped her passion for language education and accessibility. Outside of teaching, Sabrina enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures, having visited 25 U.S. states, 16 Brazilian states, and 17 countries. She lives with her husband and two stepchildren. 

Email: ASLHS@ASLTA.org

Meet Steven Whitworth! This is his first year on the ASLHS board as a Membership Coordinator, and he’s ready to hit the ground running! Steven is Deaf and a proud Texan, born and raised in the Lone Star State. He’s a dedicated educator with two bachelor’s degrees from Lamar University and a Master’s in Sign Language Education from Gallaudet University. With eight years of experience under his belt, Steven is currently inspiring students in his ASL classes at Tyler Junior College.

When he’s not shaping the minds of future ASL enthusiasts, Steven loves catching up on his favorite Chicago-based dramas, indulging in some delicious Mexican cuisine, or diving into the exciting world of video games.

Email: ASLHS.chapters@ASLTA.org

Meet Nicole Cruz! This is her first year serving on the ASLHS’s board as a Competition Coordinator! Nicole is Deaf and grew up in New Hampshire before residing in Rochester New York for 16 years while attending NTID/RIT and eventually working in NTID’s Performing Arts Department for 5 years. Nicole then uprooted and moved back home to be closer to her family. Nicole graduated from NTID with AAS degree in Graphic Design and also completed her BS degree in General Studies from Southern New Hampshire University. Nicole is currently enrolled in the Masters of Education Curriculum and Instruction program with Educator Leadership through Southern New Hampshire University. Nicole is currently teaching ASL levels 1-4 at her former high school, Memorial, as well as University of New Hampshire Manchester’s Interpreting program. 

Nicole enjoys ballet and tap dancing alongside her son, skiing, coaching t-ball, crafting, and serving on the NH Down Syndrome Association Board! When she is not doing all of the above, you will find her at home with her son and pups!

Email: aslhs.competition2@aslta.org

Originally from McAllen, Texas, Professor Barrera-Coffman has dedicated her carreer to advancing Deaf education, interpreter training, and ASL instruction. She currently serves as a full-time professor in the American Sign Language & Interpreter Training Program at Houston City College. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master’s degree in Deaf Education / Deaf Studies. Professor Barrera-Coffman is a certified Deaf Education teacher, ASL teacher, and BEI-certified interpreter. Her work combines academic rigor with authentic community engagement, empowering students to become culturally responsive and linguistically fluent interpreters. 

“I’m passionate about empowering the next generation of interpreters and ASL users through authentic language exposure, cultural understanding, and strong community connections. I hope to help ASLHS members feel confident, inspired, and supported as they explore the beauty and depth of ASL and Deaf culture.”

Email: ASLHS.scholarship@ASLTA.org

Meet Melissa Ibanez! Melissa has been the Graduation Coordinator since 2019. She is Deaf, was born in Wisconsin, and moved to Texas at a young age. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Deaf Education from Gallaudet University. Melissa currently teaches ASL 1-4 at South Texas College, where she has been a full-time faculty member since 2015. Before that, she taught Deaf Education for 10 years and ASL part-time for 5 years. In addition to her teaching role, Melissa is a Girl Scout Co-Leader and serves on the committee for the Texas ASL Educators.

Melissa’s favorite celebrities are Gong Yoo and Song Kang. She enjoys indulging in authentic Mexican and Asian cuisine. In her free time, Melissa loves crafting, reading books, and collecting various items.

Email: ASLHS.gradship@ASLTA.org