Conference Presenters

ARIELE BELO
Legislative & Community Advocacy Panel

Ariele Blo is the Director of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services and Co-Executive Director of the Hearing, Speech, and Deaf Center (HSDC). She supervised staff within the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (Advocacy, Case Management, Information and referral, and Education & training programs) in Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellingham. Ariele is a native of Seattle and an alumna of the Hearing, Speech, and Deaf Center’s Parent-Infant Program (PIP). She had years of experience as an advocate for the deaf and hard of hearing. She is also a Qualified Deaf interpreter for Deaf and DeafBlind. Ariele enjoys volunteering as her parents have always volunteered while growing up. Ariele is currently a board member of Deaf Spotlight. Deaf Spotlight inspires and showcases Deaf Culture and Sign Languages through arts.

AUDREY RAMIREZ–LOUDENBACK
Workshop: Building Community Through Reflective Practice

Audrey Ramirez-Loudenback resides in Salem, Oregon with her husband and two kids. She has worked as an ASL/English Interpreter for 16 years in a variety of settings. Audrey obtained NIC in 2009 and has completed an MA in Interpreting Studies from Western Oregon University. During her Master™s Thesis she researched the topic of fiMotivational Valuesfl in Sign Language Interpreters. Since 2009 Audrey has been leading and participating in reflective practice through the framework for Demand Control Schema. Most recently Audrey became a credentialed Supervision Leader through IIRAS (Interpreting Institute for Reflection in Action & Supervision). Audrey coordinates Reflective Practice sessions through Insightful Interpreter, which also includes a BIPOC affinity group.

BEN JARASHOW
Workshop: Allophilia, Allyship, & Deaf Heart
Workshop: Audism & Linquicism

Ben Jarashow, a California native, graduated from Gallaudet University in 2004 with a Bachelor’s degree in Deaf Studies. He obtained his Master’s degree in Deaf Studies: Cultural Studies in 2006, also from Gallaudet University. His Master’s thesis focused on developing criteria for a better quality of ABC storytelling. He is a Senior Lecturer at the Deaf Cultural Studies program in the department of Liberal Arts at the National Technical Institute for the Deaf/Rochester Institute of Technology. He has also traveled all over the country giving ASL performances and workshops covering a wide range of topics in the ASL and Deaf Studies field. He lives in Rochester, New York with his wife, Kat, and their children, Boone, Cypress, and Wilder.

CHARLENE WILLIAMS
Workshop: Power, Privilege, & Position: Interpreting with Integrity in K–12 Settings

Charlene Williams, MA, NIC, Ed:K-12 is the Mediated Education Liaison for the Washington Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Youth (CDHY). She began working in the field of interpreting in 1995 and has worked in K-12 settings, post-secondary, VRS, and freelance. Her current position is focused on consulting with and educating school districts on best practices when working with educational interpreters as well as overseeing the Educational Interpreter Mentoring Program she developed for CDHY in 2019.

CHRISTINE NAKAHARA
Workshop: Beyond the Debrief: Reflection as Resistance and Renewal

Christine Nakahara (she/her) currently resides in the San Francisco Bay Area with her spouse and dog. She has been an ASL/English interpreter since 2008, received her NIC in 2009, and has been working primarily in postsecondary settings and getting in community work when she can. She completed her MA in 2016 from Western Oregon University focusing on the experience of the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. While she is an interpreter educator, Christine's passion lies in mentoring students and new interpreters. When she's not working, Christine enjoys hanging out with friends and traveling to new places.

COLLEEN "CJ" JONES
Workshop: Results & Discussion from the Interpreter Income Study: Washington State Deep Dive

Colleen Jones (CJ) is the owner of The Insightful Interpreter and is a nationally certified interpreter, researcher, teacher, and presenter from Seattle. She holds undergraduate degrees from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and Seattle Central Community College, and a Masters degree from Western Oregon University. CJ’s interpreting work is focused on medical, business, and DeafBlind settings, and she has published research on the topics of gender bias, consumer orientation, and interpreter income. In her spare time (what's that?), CJ enjoys getting in cold water, developing her green thumb, and travel. She is currently working on a bucket list of islands to visit across the world.

DR. JAIME WILSON Ph.D. ABN, ABPP
Postdoctoral M.S. in Clinical Psychopharmacology
Workshop: Bridge of Time: Caregivers & Care Receivers with Hearing Loss in Alzheimer’s & Dementia

Dr. Jaime Wilson is a Deaf prescribing medical psychologist and board-certified neuropsychologist practicing across Washington State and beyond. With hospital privileges and collaborations with physicians, forensic experts, and allied professionals, he provides extensive neuropsychological insights for global care. He’s a recognized leader in inclusive practice, having served as Past President of the Association of Medical Professionals with Hearing Loss (AMPHL). He currently contributes to the Diversity Council of the Society of Prescribing Psychology and chairs the Diversity Committee at the American Board of Professional Neuropsychology.

Dr. Wilson is the author of two heartfelt, empowering books:

• "Preserving the Etchings of the Mind" offers an easy-to-read, hopeful guide to protecting the aging brain and safeguarding memory, especially in the context of hearing loss. With over 50 five-star reviews, it’s become a trusted resource for families and clinicians alike.
• His newly released "Bridge of Time: Caregivers & Care Receivers with Hearing Loss in Alzheimer’s & Dementia" is a tender roadmap for navigating memory loss and hearing loss with compassion—available now: 

Born with a profound hearing loss, Dr. Wilson grew up using bilateral hearing aids and primarily communicated using spoken language, although he is also fluent in American Sign Language. He resides in Olympia, WA, with his equally Deaf wife (an RN), their three children, and their spirited King Charles Spaniel, Pepper Jack.

More About His Work & Books       Social Media Channel 

ELLIE SAVIDGE
Deaf/DeafBlind Panel: Perspectives on Interpreters

Ellie Savidge has had a variety of roles as an interpreter, advocate, consultant, mentor, coach, ASL Instructor, and Interpreter educator. Currently, Ellie is freelancing. She is a CDI and holds a M.A. degree in Intercultural Relations from Antioch University.

JENNIFER HESS
Workshop: Working with the DeafBlind: Embracing Diverse Communication

Jennifer Hess serves as the President of the Board for the DeafBlind Services Center (DBSC) and works at Lighthouse for the Blind in Seattle, where she supports the empowerment and inclusion of DeafBlind individuals. As a DeafBlind leader, Jennifer brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her advocacy, focusing on communication access, equity, and cultural awareness. She is passionate about creating spaces where DeafBlind people can thrive and where communities learn to recognize and challenge sighted privilege. Through her leadership and storytelling, Jennifer works to promote more inclusive practices across communities.

JUSTIN "BUCKY" BUCKHOLD
RID CEO

Bucky, also known as Justin Buckhold, is a Certified Deaf Interpreter with 13 years of experience as co-founder and operator of a Deaf-owned interpreting agency, offering rare perspectives that span Deaf consumer experience, interpreter practice, and business leadership.

At RID, Bucky is focused on helping the organization operate with more clarity, collaboration, and stability. His leadership centers on financial health, honest communication, and creating systems that support both the mission and the people doing the work. Known for his thoughtful questions, joyful energy, and direct but compassionate leadership style, Bucky is committed to building trust and taking meaningful steps forward with the team.

When he’s not working, you’ll likely find Bucky enjoying the Colorado Rockies with his sweetheart, or proudly cheering on their two adult sons as they chart their paths. He’s always happy to connect over interpreting, leadership, or that one unforgettable assignment that still makes you shake your head. (He’s had one of those, too.)

KIARAH MOORE
Workshop: Beyond the Debrief: Reflection as Resistance and Renewal 

Kiarah resides in Houston, Texas, where she works as a freelance ASL/English interpreter and interpreter educator. She holds BEI Advanced certification and received her Master of Arts in Interpreting Studies with an emphasis on Teaching from Western Oregon University. Her Master's thesis focused on cultivating confidence in novice interpreters. Kiarah currently serves as an adjunct professor and practicum fieldwork coordinator for multiple interpreter training programs. She has led reflective practice groups for BIPOC interpreters, centering professional growth, identity, and shared processing. She is passionate about culturally responsive practice, mentoring, and creating intentional spaces for interpreters of color. Outside of work, Kiarah loves to travel and enjoys life with her two dogs, Lafayette and Daisy.

KRISTI CRUZ
Legislative & Community Advocacy Panel 

Kristi Cruz has over 30 years of experience advancing language and disability access, including 15 years as a certified American Sign Language interpreter and 15 years as an attorney and policy advocate focused on civil rights and accessibility. Previously, Kristi worked at the Northwest Justice Project where she created and led the CLEAR*ASL program, expanding access to civil legal aid for Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, and DeafBlind individuals across Washington State. Through this work, she was instrumental in achieving settlement agreements that improved access within healthcare, law enforcement, and state government programs. Until recently, Kristi worked at the U.S. Department of Justice's Office for Access to Justice promoting effective communication and language access standards within the Department. Kristi has also contributed to national and state initiatives to strengthen ADA and Title VI language access compliance and continues to consult and present on issues of equity, accessibility, and inclusive public policy.

LANCE FORSHAY
KEYNOTE Narration of a Legendary Deaf Couple

Lance was born Deaf and has at least 30 Deaf family members and relatives that run through 5 generations since 1860’s. He graduated from Kansas School for the Deaf and Gallaudet University. He has a BA in Mathematics and Secondary Education. He also has a MS in Ministry from Ambridge University, Montgomery, Alabama. Lance came to the University of Washington when it started its ASL program in 2007. Since that time the program has expanded into a three-year ASL Language Minor Studies. He played a role in UW ASL Club’s affiliation with the national ASL Honors Society and the establishment of the UW D-Center, Disability and Deaf Culture Student Center, which is the first of its kind among American universities and colleges. He was promoted to the rank of Teaching Professor in 2024 and was a recipient of the 2014 UW Distinguished Teaching Award. With over 30 years of ASL teaching experience, he has given many workshops and presentations on ASL Verb Morphology and grammar topics, Deafhood, Deaf culture Deaf culture topics and issues related to cultural and language oppressions for interpreters, ASL teachers and the Deaf community.

Lance has been serving as a custodian trustee for the WSAD Endowment Fund Trustee, chair of Deaf Missions Board based in Iowa, member of national ASL Bible Translation Committee, and founder/elder for Deaf House Fellowship, a Deaf House Church network in South Puget Sound area. He lives in Puyallup with his wife. They have two grown kids, Matthew and Samantha. Lance’s hobbies/activities include essential oils, hiking, biking and gardening. His passions include history, natural health, languages and cultures.

LARRY PETERSON
Banquet Presenter

Larry Petersen was born and raised in Everett, Washington. He attended oral school until he was 9 years old, then transferred to Washington School for the Deaf. He has a Bachelor’s Degree from Gallaudet University and a Master’s Degree from California State University, Northridge. He settled back in the Seattle area where he and his wife had two children and he worked as the Director of the Deaf Program at Seattle Central Community College.

LAURIE REINHARDT
Workshop: Trust Formation and the Deaf Consumer: Evidence-based Applications for Practitioners (Part 1 & 2)

Laurie R. Reinhardt, PhD., CSC, NIC-A, SC:L has been an ASL-English interpreter practitioner, business owner, and educator for over 40 years. Dr. Reinhardt recently earned a PhD. from Gallaudet University’s Department of Interpretation and Translation. Her dissertation study was the culmination of trust theory research she began during her MA studies at Western Oregon University.

MALCOLM REED
Workshop: Injury & Interpreter Preservation (Part 1 & 2)

Malcolm is an Occupational Therapy Outpatient Clinical Specialist at the American Lake VA and a nationally certified sign language interpreter. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Sign Language Interpreting in 2015 and his Master of Science in Occupational Therapy in 2019. Malcolm brings more than a decade of interpreting experience and five years of clinical practice treating Veterans with various cardiopulmonary, neurological, and musculoskeletal disorders. He is passionate about promoting healthy, sustainable practices that foster long-term resilience.

MARK HOSHI
Workshop: Injury & Interpreter Preservation (Part 1 & 2)

Mark Hoshi is a lifelong Washingtonian and a proud WSD '76 graduate. A former ASL instructor and retired commercial electrician, he spent over 20 years as a leadership and challenge course facilitator, empowering teens and young adults toward independence and career readiness, A cancer survivor and avid traveller, Mark has attended over 330 Grateful Dead shows (and cover bands). He embraces life's adventures with resilience and enthusiasm—DEAFLYMPICS Japan in November, anyone?

MAX THOMPSON
Workshop: Supporting Trans Interpreters: Building a Practical Toolkit
Workshop: Eating Our Young: Horizontal Violence Against Young & New Interpreters

Max Thompson (they/them) is a freelance interpreter who lives in rural Washington State and serves Southwest Washington and Oregon. They received an AAS in Sign Language Interpretation from the interpreter training program at Portland Community College (PCC) in 2018, and became NIC certified in 2024. Currently, they are serving as Secretary for the Oregon Affiliate Chapter of RID. Max hosts many local community events including Terp Talk, a monthly meet-up for interpreters to network, share information, discuss ethics, and find community support. They are also a part-time instructor for the interpreter training program at PCC. As a young, trans nonbinary person, and as a first generation college student, Max has first hand experience being an outsider navigating complex systems with limited knowledge and resources. They approach their work and community spaces through a lens of equity, striving to reduce barriers through shared knowledge and clear communication.

MELISSA KLINDTWORTH
Workshop: Power, Privilege, & Position: Interpreting with Integrity in K–12 Settings

Melissa Klindtworth NIC-ADV, Ed:K-12 (4.9), QMHI has been interpreting since 2002, working in schools, universities, performance, community, medical and mental health settings. She has spent over 15 years mentoring interpreters and is passionate about supporting both professional growth and personal confidence. In her role at the Washington Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Youth, she coordinates the Interpreter Hub – Educational Interpreter Mentor Program, helping interpreters strengthen their skills and approach their work in educational settings with integrity.

MORGAN BREESE
Workshop: Working with the DeafBlind: Embracing Diverse Communication

Morgan Breese is a DeafBlind professional based in Seattle and currently serves as the DeafBlind Program Manager at the Lighthouse for the Blind, the world’s largest employer of DeafBlind individuals. In this role, she works alongside DeafBlind staff and community members to organize DeafBlind-led classes and the annual DeafBlind Retreat at Seabeck, creating spaces for leadership growth, connection, and professional development.

She also serves as Treasurer on the board of the DeafBlind Service Center, a nonprofit led by and for DeafBlind people in Seattle. Morgan’s work centers on collaborating with DeafBlind individuals to build opportunities, strengthen community, and expand accessibility.

MORGAN JERICHO
Workshop: Laws Made Simple: A Community Adventure

Morgan Jericho is a Management Analyst with the Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing. He is currently the legislative coordinator for the Washington State Legislature. His background in legislative advocacy, policy analysis, and strategic planning is comprehensive with over 12 years of experience in community advocacy in the legislation field.

PAUL GLASER, MSE, CDI
Banquet Presenter

Paul made history as the first Deaf Treasurer, President and Immediate Past President of WSRID. Prior to that role, he served as a WSRID Director and Treasurer for several years and was Co-Chair of the 2018 RID Region V Conference. From 2019 to 2021, he also served as Vice President of RID. For more than 20 years, he has also interpreted for Deaf and DeafBlind communities, presented numerous workshops, and mentored interpreters.

RACHEL KLEIST, M.S., CDI, BEI Court, BEI Intermediary III & V
Workshop: Laws Made Simple: A Community Adventure

Rachel Kleist is a Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) and RID Region V Representative based in Northern California. A native of the Sacramento area, Rachel began interpreting in 2008 while working with Deaf-Plus adults and soon discovered a passion for Deaf-centered interpreting. She holds multiple certifications from the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI)—Intermediary III, Intermediary V, and the prestigious BEI Court certification, held by only a few Deaf interpreters nationwide.

Rachel teaches in the Interpreter Preparatory Program (IPP) at American River College, the same program from which she proudly graduated. She holds a Master of Science in Interpreter Pedagogy from the University of North Florida and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from California State University, Sacramento. Passionate about Deaf leadership, interpreter education, and equity, Rachel continues to advance professional standards and communication access throughout RID Region V and beyond.

RHONDA COCHRANH
BANQUET KEYNOTE

Rhonda Cochran currently resides in Seattle WA, and collaborates with theaters within the Puget Sound as their Deaf Community Access Coordinator and DASL to support in the planning and ensure the success and enjoyment of each interpreted performance. Some of these theaters include 5 Avenue, Seattle Rep, Seattle Children’s Theater, as well as many of our smaller local theaters. Her joy for theater extends into her writings. Her 2024 written play “Dinner Note”, regarding a Black Deaf family in the Northwest, has been chosen for Gallaudet’s 2026 Spring production. Rhonda is a proud mother to her daughter Theresa (Deaf) and grandma to 2 beautiful granddaughters, Aaliyah (9yrs old) and Sarah (2yrs old, 2012-2014).

STEVE SMITH
Results & Discussion from the Interpreter Income Study: Washington State Deep Dive

Steve Smith is a nationally certified Deaf-parented interpreter living in a suburb of Sacramento, California. He especially enjoys working with Deaf academics and professionals. Steve values the education he received from the Deaf community and from lived experience, and he is passionate about supporting both new and experienced interpreters in becoming the best practitioners they can be. His work on the National Interpreter Income Survey has provided opportunities to transform the interpreting profession as we know it, sparking dialogue and fostering change across the field. When he's not interpreting, Steve enjoys trail running, kayaking, and spending time with his wife, three children, and three grandchildren.

WHITNEY HILL
Workshop: Education Law for Deaf Students

Whitney Hill has been an attorney with Cedar Law since 2019, representing students and families in special education and civil rights cases. She has particular expertise in matters involving Deaf students, parents, and teachers, as well as cases addressing restraint and isolation in schools. Whitney is passionate about seeking justice for those most marginalized in the education system and is grateful for the opportunity to do this work every day.

Before joining Cedar Law, Whitney worked as a public defense attorney in Pierce County. She also spent sixteen years as a nationally certified sign language interpreter, where she helped lead successful statewide advocacy efforts to establish interpreter standards in schools and secure fair wages for interpreters. In recognition of her work, she was the first recipient of the Theresa B. Smith Distinguished Service Award from the Washington State Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.

Whitney earned her JD from Seattle University and her BA in American Sign Language/English Interpreting from Western Oregon University. She has been deeply connected to the Deaf and DeafBlind community since childhood and brings both cultural understanding and legal expertise to her practice.

WILMA DENNIS
Workshop: Trauma-Informed Interpreting

Wilma Dennis is the Training and Technical Assistance Coordinator at ADWAS in Seattle, WA. She had been working at ADWAS since 2017, wearing many hats. With her Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, New York, she worked as an Advocate when she first started, working directly with Deaf survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. After 3 years, she switched to Outreach and Prevention, working in K-12 schools and educating communities both Deaf and Hearing on various topics, from teen dating violence, intersectionality, and more. Wilma currently identify gaps in services, provides consultation on issues connected to DV/SA within and against the Deaf community to outside agencies, businesses, and service providers of Washington State.