ASL Faculty
Kari Sween – ASL Certificate Coordinator
Email: kari.sween@mnsu.edu
Education:
- M.S. in Teaching and Learning, Minnesota State University, Mankato, 2021
- B.A. in Education, Minnesota State University, Mankato, 2008
- Sign Language Proficiency Interview: Superior Plus Rating
Teaching Philosophy: It is my greatest passion to teach American Sign Language (ASL) in a safe space for students so they can learn to communicate with Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals. In addition to teaching ASL, it is equally important to understand the communication barriers that Deaf and Hard of Hearing people face every day. My goal is to reduce these barriers by raising awareness about ASL and Deaf culture.
Current Courses:
- CDIS 205: Beginning American Sign Language - Level I
- CDIS 307: Advanced American Sign Language – Level III
- CDIS 308: Conversations in ASL
- CDIS 404: Deaf Studies: Deaf Culture, History, and Social Justice
- CDIS 407: Advanced American Sign Language – Level IV
Angela Wells – ASL Adjunct Instructor
Email: angela.wells.2@mnsu.edu
Education:
- MA in Sign Language Education, Gallaudet University, 2022
- AA in Early Education and Youth, Dakota Community College, 2019
- BA in Psychology, Gallaudet University, 2006
Teaching Philosophy: Angela's teaching philosophy draws from the Communicative Language Teaching, Direct Method, and the Natural Approach. She focuses on immersing students in ASL, fostering real-life communication skills, and helping them build a strong understanding of Deaf culture. Her goal is to provide students with the tools they need to confidently communicate with Deaf individuals while showing them how ASL can be applied in broader contexts. This includes fields like health care, where ASL can assist patients who cannot use their voice, and raising awareness about the critical issue of language deprivation.
Current Courses:
- CDIS 205 Beginning American Sign Language - Level I
Joel Sween – ASL Adjunct Instructor
Email: joel.sween@mnsu.edu
Education:
- B.S. in Construction Management, Minnesota State University, Mankato, 2008
- A.A. in General Studies, Riverland Community College, 2005
Teaching Philosophy: Joel’s teaching philosophy is centered around the idea that every student comes from a unique background, and each person’s signing style is individual. Some students are reserved, while others thrive in the spotlight. His goal is to integrate these diverse styles and help students reach a level of confidence in themselves.
Current Courses:
- CDIS 306-01 Intermediate Sign Language – Level II
- CDIS 306-02 Intermediate Sign Language – Level II
Julianne Kinney – ASL Adjunct Instructor
Email: julianne.kinney@mnsu.edu
Education:
- M.A. in American Sign Language, University of Northern Colorado, 2022
- B.A. in Individualized Studies, Metropolitan State University, 2016
- A.A. in General Studies, Inver Hills Community College, 2014
Teaching Philosophy: As an American Sign Language Teacher, Julianne aims to engage, challenge, and motivate all students in their learning journey. She firmly believes that every student has the potential to learn ASL as a second language and is dedicated to creating a positive and encouraging environment to support their growth.
Current Courses:
- CDIS 205 Beginning American Sign Language – Level I
- CDIS 306 Intermediate American Sign Language - Level II
Damian Forkner – ASL Adjunct Instructor
Email: damian.forkner@mnsu.edu
Education:
- B.S. in Social Work, Minnesota State University, Mankato, 2015
- A.A. in General Studies, Utah Valley University, 2007
Current Courses:
- CDIS 205: Beginning American Sign Language - Level I
Teaching Philosophy: Damian’s enthusiasm for teaching American Sign Language is driven by a desire to provide students with the tools to bridge communication gaps by enhancing understanding, enabling them to engage meaningfully with Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities.
