IRIS Project

ASL Version: https://youtu.be/CTjuRcdO1U4

It is with deep regret that we share that the U.S. Department of Education has cut federal funding for the final year of the IRIS Project. As a result, all IRIS programming will end on September 30, 2025.

UNC-IRIS's ability to positively impact the American Sign Language interpreters who live and work in rural settings was dependent on the substantial contribution and dedication of many organizations and individuals. IRIS programs and experiences were cultivated in large part by its instructional team and leadership, without whom this grant would not be possible.

We are especially grateful for the University of Northern Colorado’s institutional support and the leadership of Drs. Leilani Johnson and Barbara Garrett. IRIS’s success is directly attributable to the dedication and tenacity of its participants, who are the future of this field.

All approved IRIS materials for dissemination will become available on our website and YouTube channel (links in the comments below).

Video visual description: Kelly Decker, a white woman in her 40s with brown chin length hair, is wearing a green top and a black blazer with 3/4 sleeves and situated in front of a blue background.

IRIS Funding Cut Announcement Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

Check out the news from the University of Northern Colorado, UNC! The IRIS Project will be hosting its Summer 2024 onsite event with 75 *amazing* rural interpreters! We can't wait!!

Visitor Coming from Across the Nation Improving Rural Interpreter Skills (IRIS) Project

***Applications are due today by 11:59pm MT***

Are you a working Deaf, Coda, or hearing interpreter who lives and works in rural areas? Are you looking for a supportive, engaging community of learning and 9 months of free, individualized mentoring? Apply to be a part of our 2024-2025 Improving Rural Interpreter Skills: Connections, Opportunities, Resources, and Education Initiative (IRIS: CORE Initiative).

What is CORE Initiative?
IRIS: CORE Initiative provides ~300 hours (9 months) of free, hybrid (onsite and online) interpreting knowledge and skills training and mentoring designed for rural interpreters. This dialogic, bilingual (ASL & written English) curriculum begins with an onsite orientation from June 23-29, 2024 at the University of Northern Colorado, followed by a 9-month facilitated training via an online community of learning from August 2024-May 2025. After successful completion of CORE training, participants have an opportunity to engage in a 6-month induction experience.
Training, mentoring, and RID CEUs are offered at no cost. During the 2024 onsite orientation, IRIS will provide six nights' lodging and several meals (breakfast and lunch on training days) free of charge. Participants will be responsible for arranging and paying for their own travel to and from the onsite orientation. To help defray travel costs, participants who complete the onsite orientation will receive a $550 allotment 6-8 weeks after the onsite training. See our website for possible sponsorship options!