Shawnee State University offers a diverse variety of classes. From engineering to theatre, students have the opportunity to learn multiple different skills in all sorts of fields.
A classroom in Shawnee’s education building, located on Fourth Street, offers a valuable language class that some may not know about – American Sign Language, or ASL. ASL is used in both the U.S and Canada; it is a nonverbal language expressed through hand motions and expressions.
Professor Linda Malizio, Shawnee’s ASL instructor, was employed at Shawnee State University in 2000 as a supplemental instruction teacher assistant. In 2009, she began teaching Shawnee’s ASL classes. She has also been employed at Ohio University since 2008. She has over 26 years of experience in teaching ASL at schools and universities – including PATH Behavioral Healthcare, the Community Service for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, the Deaf Services Center, Notre Dame Elementary, South State Community College and Tri-State STEM + M Early College High School.
“In Introduction to Sign Language, students will develop essential communication skills in a supportive and encouraging environment that helps build a strong linguistic foundation,” Malizio said. “By the end of the course, students will feel confident in expressing their basic needs, understanding simple spoken or written texts, and participating in basic conversations.” Introduction to Sign Language is the very first class students take when exploring ASL. Learning a new language may be intimidating for some students – which is why there is support in the form of tutoring.
Chloe Wilbur is a junior at Shawnee State majoring in the primary intervention specialist program. Wilbur is also a senior resident assistant, a student member on SSU’s Board of Trustees and an ASL tutor.
“My ASL classes have been some of my favorite courses at Shawnee,” said Wilbur. “Our professor is Deaf and teaches entirely in ASL, which allows us to experience the language in a very authentic and immersive way.”
Wilbur found that being immersed in ASL and Deaf culture right from the beginning of class helped her learn more naturally. This led to her becoming a tutor for students in SIGN-1010, Introduction to Sign Language, and more advanced ASL classes.
“I am deeply passionate about education,” Wilbur said. “Not only do I enjoy learning myself, but I also love helping others learn and grow.”
Becoming a tutor for ASL classes has allowed Wilbur to do what she loves in a familiar environment, with students her age and in a shared subject. “Being able to support students as they develop their ASL skills is a meaningful way for me to be part of their learning process.”
Wilbur believes that accessibility and inclusion are incredibly important, which is why students should consider learning American Sign Language.
“ASL is a fascinating and valuable language,” she said. “Knowing ASL is one way we can help make communication accessible for everyone.”
Madison Jackson is a student at SSU currently enrolled in SIGN-1010. She is a junior majoring in psychology and a member of the Psychology International Honor Society.
“I chose to take sign language classes because I needed to fill some elective credits, but I had also always wanted to learn sign language,” she said. “I currently work as a manager at a local restaurant, and we have several regular customers who are Deaf. I wanted to learn ASL so I could communicate with them better.”
Jackson also shared the same sentiment as Wilbur that ASL is a valuable skill; for Jackson, ASL could be extremely helpful in her future career as a school counselor.
“My favorite part of the class is definitely the instructor,” Jackson said. “Professor Malizio is an amazing teacher, and she makes learning ASL even more meaningful.”
Jackson acknowledged that learning new languages can be a challenge, but she praised Malizio for being friendly, patient and thoughtful. “It makes the class exciting and welcoming,” she noted.
Malizio shares stories from her childhood and about her life in class, which Jackson said created an engaging and fun learning environment. “It’s clear that she genuinely cares about her students and wants them to succeed.”
Tyler Hetu, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Jackson highly recommended ASL classes to any student at Shawnee.
“Learning ASL is such a valuable skill, and you never know when you might have the opportunity to use it,” she said. “The class also teaches you about Deaf culture and how to communicate in a respectful and inclusive way, which can truly mean a lot to others. It’s a class that not only teaches you a new language but also helps you better connect with and understand others.”
Students interested in ASL classes can register either in person at the SSU Student Success Center or online through MySSU. Classes can be found through the academic catalog or through the current semester catalog – this includes the time and day these classes take place. ASL classes can be taken as electives or as language requirements. Chloe Wilbur has scheduled tutoring hours, but she encourages students to contact her via email at [email protected] if her hours do not work with their schedule. The Student Success Center can also help students get in contact with Wilbur.
Shawnee State University also offers a minor in Deaf studies, which can be added to any major.
“These minors aim to enhance students’ ability to interact and communicate effectively with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, both professionally and socially,” said Malizio. SSU’s Deaf studies minor requires students to take 21 hours of ASL and Deaf culture courses – the goal is to provide students with knowledge on Deaf history, community and social justice. Malizio noted that admission to the program usually requires intermediate to advanced ASL skills, a minimum GPA and specific courses that improve understanding and appreciation of Deaf culture.
Gloria Crabtree • Apr 3, 2026 at 8:39 pm
Such a good write up. The class sounds like it is not only educational but a lot of fun.