Meet Our Roy E. Holcomb Distinguished Lecturers

Dr. Leala Holcomb | Researcher of Deaf Education

Dr Leala Holcomb is deaf and grew up receiving American Sign Language/English bilingual education at the California School for the Deaf in Fremont

Leala works as a post-doctoral researcher focusing on language and literacy in deaf children Leala has conducted qualitative, quantitative, and mixed method research that resulted in peer-reviewed publications in various academic journals Leala is also the co-founder of Hands Land: a non-profit organization that promotes sign language rhyme and rhythm with deaf children.

Damon Timm | Software Engineer (Digital Interpreting Services)

Damon Timm is hearing and learned American Sign Language in high school Damon graduated from Northeastern University with an American Sign Language and Theatre degree

Damon formerly was an American Sign Language/English interpreter and now works as a software engineer for Linguabee, a deaf-owned company that provides interpreting services

Damon and Leala live together in Maryland and are busy co-parenting two children (one deaf and one hearing) They enjoy exploring the dynamics of deaf-hearing interactions within their own relationship, families, and professions

Pre-Conference Workshop* | 8:30 am to 12 noon

Parent Advocacy: Navigating the IEP Maze

This workshop will teach you what you need to know about your child’s IEP and answer your questions or concerns. Be sure to bring your child’s most recent IEP with you.

*Workshop is open to pre-registered conference attendees only

Conference Registration & Check-In | 2:00 - 5:00 pm

Welcome Dinner | 6:00 - 7:00 pm

Welcome Keynote Presentation | 7:30 - 9:30 pm