Columbia College Cuts Mean End of State’s Only Bachelor’s Degree in American Sign Language Interpretation
Program Elimination and Layoffs Spark Outrage Among Deaf Community and Faculty
Columbia College Chicago’s plan to eliminate 11 programs and lay off up to 25 full-time faculty members would mean the end of the only bachelor’s degree in American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation offered in Illinois. The decision has sparked outrage among Deaf educators, who see the program as invaluable for the Deaf community.
Faculty and Students Protest
A missing poster depicting then-President of Columbia College Chicago Dr. Kwang-Wu Kim is taped on a pole as faculty and students carry signs during a strike by part-time adjunct faculty members at Columbia College in 2023. Many students and faculty members called for Kim to step down last year, which he did at the end of the academic year after more than a decade in the role.
College President Defends Cuts
Interim President Jerry Tarrer defended the cuts, saying the school is “trying to balance” its budget and will continue to offer courses and a minor in ASL, but will not offer training leading to the certification necessary to work as an ASL English interpreter in the state. “It’s extremely expensive to deliver,” Tarrer said. “We understand that this is something that is needed, but we just have to also, I think, balance that with wanting to be around for another 135 years, and we are having to make some really tough choices that we believe are in the best interest of the college.”
Financial Challenges
Columbia College has been facing financial challenges in recent years, including a $19 million deficit, down from $34 million last year. The school has also been dealing with enrollment declines and expensive infrastructure projects, including the construction of a $50 million student center in 2019.
Conclusion
The elimination of the ASL interpretation program is a blow to the Deaf community, which is already under-served. The program is not only a source of pride for the college, but it also provides much-needed training for ASL interpreters. While the college’s financial challenges are real, the decision to eliminate the program is a short-sighted one that will have long-term consequences for the Deaf community.
FAQs
* What is the reason for the elimination of the ASL interpretation program?
The program is being eliminated due to financial constraints and a lack of enrollment.
* What will happen to students currently enrolled in the program?
Students will be allowed to finish out their programs or transfer to related ones.
* What will happen to faculty impacted by layoffs?
Faculty will be notified in January.
* What is the current financial situation of Columbia College?
The college has a $19 million deficit, down from $34 million last year.
Lisa Kurian Philip covers higher education for WBEZ, in partnership with Open Campus. Follow her on Twitter @LAPhilip.
