Knowledge Base

At some point in my leadership journey, I realized the word I had been searching for all along was transformational. Not “traditional.” Not “managerial.” Transformational. It clicked because it describes not only how I lead — but what I believe in. It puts a name to the kind of leadership I’ve been cultivating at Gateway […]

As the Language Access and Inclusion Director at Gateway Maryland (a Baltimore City Non Profit approaching 100 years of service in 2026; 30+ years of providing interpreting services), as a certified interpreter and interpreter educator for over 25 years, and with a doctorate in Urban Education Leadership focused on sign language interpreting practices, I commend […]

There’s a conversation many people are missing—sometimes literally. It’s the connection between hearing health and mental health. And when it’s not talked about, the consequences can be profound. Hearing loss is more than just a physical condition. It touches every corner of a person’s life, often in quiet, intangible ways. From strained relationships to growing […]

Expanding Communication for Non-Verbal and Minimally Verbal Autistic Individuals For many autistic individuals, communication is not just about words—it’s about connection. Autism is a spectrum, and so is the way autistic individuals communicate. Some use spoken language fluently, while others may be non-verbal or minimally verbal. For those who experience difficulty with traditional speech, alternative […]

Language is the foundation of connection. It is how we share ideas, build relationships, and advocate for ourselves. But what happens when communication is inaccessible? What if the way we exchange information isn’t designed for everyone? As a leader, ensuring language access isn’t just a courtesy—it’s a responsibility. At Gateway, we are deeply aware of […]

Leadership is not about titles. It’s about showing up, making an impact, and lifting others along with you as you climb. I’ve seen this truth play out time and time again—whether in my role as Chief Operating Officer at Gateway or as a Girl Scout troop leader, guiding young girls to find their confidence and […]

Women have been at the heart of every movement for progress—whether in science, activism, the arts, or education. Throughout history, women have fought for inclusion, shattered expectations, and changed the world in ways too often overlooked. And when we look at the Deaf community, we see the same pattern of resilience and brilliance. For centuries, […]

Speech-language pathology (SLP) is a lifeline for individuals navigating communication and swallowing challenges. At Gateway, our speech pathology program embodies this mission, offering hope, empowerment, and transformation to those we serve. In this continuation of our exploration into speech-language pathology, we dive deeper into its specialized techniques, success stories, and the profound impact it has […]

Deaf culture is a rich tapestry woven from unique experiences, languages, and traditions that have evolved over centuries. It embodies the shared values, norms, and artistic expressions of Deaf individuals, fostering a sense of identity and community. Historical Evolution of Deaf Culture The roots of Deaf culture can be traced back to ancient civilizations. In […]