The Post

With the renewed agreement with Deaf Access Services, a Program of People Inc. (DAS), NU has added the ability for all employees to have Video Remote Interpreting access. Orientation dates and times are listed below.

Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) is sign language interpretation provided remotely via the DAS interpreting platform, which uses a video conferencing type software. VRI addresses unexpected communication barriers in a single location by connecting with an interpreter remotely, in a different location.

Benefits of VRI – VRI services are available on demand. This means that you have fast and easy access to interpreters 24/7/365. According to the National Association of the Deaf, there are many benefits to using VRI services, while also recognizing limitations to its effectiveness in some settings, such as medical, legal, or classrooms.

Utilization of VRI at NU – VRI serves the purpose of having an interpreter ready for instances such as emergencies (i.e., a deaf fan at a sporting event, student who needs assistance) or interactions that call for clarity to ensure understanding (i.e., asking about ingredients in a food item, meeting with a professor). Events, classes, or major functions that are planned in advance should always have an in-person ASL interpreter scheduled if there is a request for one. VRI does NOT serve as an option to replace an ASL interpreter.

Who should have VRI – Any employee who may have interactions with students, staff, faculty, or the public. This include, but is not limited to, Campus Safety, Athletics (to include select coaches), Admissions, Health Services, Counseling Services, Student Affairs, Residential Life, Library, Food Services, Accessibility Services, Events, and Faculty who teach deaf students.

Scenarios where VRI could be utilized during ticket transactions with a fan at a sporting event, Admissions Open House, Campus Safety response to a deaf person on campus, Health Services response to a deaf student, among many others.

Access is for NU work purposes ONLY. VRI only incurs cost when it is utilized.

VRI Orientation

DAS will be conducting two virtual sessions. A link will be sent to you prior to the program. A step-by-step guide to using the on-demand VRI feature will be provided to departments once they have attended the orientation.

Monday, Sept. 16: 1-1:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 17: 2-2:30 p.m.

If you do not have an account, please contact Interpreting Services coordinator Kelly Morgan, at kelly.morgan@wnydas.org.  

To register or with questions: Contact Dave Whalen, ADA coordinator, at dwhalen@niagara.edu  x7355