Originally from Shreveport, Louisiana—home of the Bayou Classic, vibrant Mardi Gras traditions, and the spirited “Who Dat Nation”—I bring a strong sense of cultural pride and identity to everything I do.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I’m a passionate gamer, avid reader, and enthusiastic traveler. I have a deep love for languages, particularly signed languages, and my journey has continually reaffirmed that language, identity, and race are deeply interconnected. These lived experiences shape my work, research, and commitment to creating inclusive spaces that honor diverse linguistic and cultural identities.

This inspired me to create my favorite motto is, “Being Deaf doesn’t make you any less Black.”

Linkedin profile: link

Contact information: d.player@csus.edu