Kelly is a Deaf Interpreter Mentor originally from Kansas City, Missouri, and currently based in Alexandria Bay, New York. Her journey has taken her through several cities including Rochester, NY; Oakland, CA; and Denver, CO. Coming from a hearing family, Kelly was mainstreamed in school with access to a strong Deaf program and grew up immersed in the Deaf community through friendships and summer camps.

She holds a B.A. in Sociology and Anthropology from Rochester Institute of Technology (2014) and an M.A. in Teaching ASL from the University of Northern Colorado (2023). Her passion for interpreting was sparked in 2016, and by 2017 she began mentoring hearing families with Deaf children.

With over five years of experience teaching ASL across various settings—including K-12 schools, colleges, families, community programs, and events—Kelly brings a versatile and inclusive teaching approach. Her mentoring focuses on language production and receptive skills, platform interpreting (with a particular love for Pride events!), teaming with hearing interpreters, sight translation, remote interpreting, and more.

As a white, queer professional, Kelly is committed to accountability and social justice through an intersectional lens. She provides a supportive space for both new and experienced interpreters to reflect, grow, and set meaningful goals. Her mentoring style is rooted in clarity, communication, and professionalism. Kelly is currently working toward becoming a Certified Deaf Interpreter.

She looks forward to partnering with you on your journey!