Approving and Scheduling Sign Language Interpreters

This document provides guidance for the St. Cloud State University (SCSU) campus community regarding the American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreting request process.

Employees

Human Resources is the authorized approver of workplace accommodations, including ASL interpreters. This includes student employees, if the activity requiring an ASL interpreter is related to their work, such as on-boarding, training, or meetings. Contact Human Resources.

1. Employees must be approved for workplace accommodations through Human Resources ADA Accommodation Process.
2. Once approved, employees will request interpreters by completing the ASL Interpreter Request Form at least 7 days prior to events and meetings.

Students

Student Accessibility Services (SAS) is the authorized approver for all ASL interpreter requests needed for admitted students. Contact Student Accessibility Services.

1. Students must be approved for accommodations through the SAS Accommodation Request Process.
2. Once approved, students will coordinate classroom needs directly with SAS and use the ASL Interpreter Request Form to request for campus events.

Members of the Public

Office for Institutional Equity and Access (OEA) is the authorized approver for all ASL interpreter requests needed for members of the public attending university events. Contact the Office for Institutional Equity & Access.

1. Members of the public can request accommodations by completing the Members of the Public Access to Public Events form.

Department & University Events

ASL interpreter needs for department and university hosted events will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Generally, ASL interpreters will only be provided through the university process per request from a Deaf/hard of hearing consumer.

All department and university hosted event promotions (brochures, flyers, social medial, email, etc.) must include an accessibility statement which includes how to request accommodations.

Accommodation Request sample Language

Below are examples of language to include on event promotions to ensure accessibility needs of participants are met.

 “St. Cloud State University is committed to making our events accessible to everyone. If you require an accommodation or service to fully participate, please contact [department/contact email, phone number] at least {#} days prior to the event.”

“To request accommodations (i.e. ASL interpreter, accessible materials) please contact [department/ contact email, phone number] at least 7 days prior to the event.”

Language for events open to the public

 “St. Cloud State University will actively work with members of the public to provide feasible options for accessibility to campus events. If you require accommodation to attend this event, complete the Request for Access form or call 320-308-3166."

Request received

When an ASL interpreter request is received to support a needed accommodation, the host department should complete the ASL Interpreter Request form at least 7 days in advance. Student Accessibility Services will attempt to fulfill all requests, but cannot guarantee urgent or rushed needs. For consultation pertaining to ASL interpreters, please contact sas@stcloudstate.edu or call 320-308-4080.

No Request

If there is no request from a deaf/hard of hearing consumer attending an event, but ASL interpreter presence is preferred, the hosting department is responsible for the coordination and cost of ASL interpreters. These requests are not processed through Student Accessibility Services. For consultation pertaining to ASL interpreters, please contact sas@stcloudstate.edu or call 320-308-4080.

Non-University Sanctioned Events

St. Cloud State University is not responsible for coordinating, providing, or funding ASL interpreter services for any non-university sanctioned events. This includes events and activities taking place on university property that is rented or borrowed for community use.