Provider Spotlight: Kelly Dagley

Deaf Services Unlimited is made up of a nationwide network of Sign Language Interpreters and CART Writers. We truly wouldn’t be able to make conversations happen without our amazing providers. As experienced experts in their field, they go above and beyond to provide communication access. One of these accessibility champions is Kelly Dagley. Read more below as Kelly shares about her interpreting experience and shares advice for aspiring interpreters!

1.  What inspired you to become an interpreter, and how did you start in this field? 

Well, when I was 13ish years old I was a summer nanny and babysitter for a full Deaf family.  Everyone used ASL to communicate.  I LOVED IT!!  I became fully immersed into their language and culture.  I worked with the family for years. This experience led to my solid foundation of the language. Later on in college I had several Deaf friends.  They all encouraged me to become a working certified interpreter.  So I pursued that, and earned my degree in linguistics and Deaf Studies.  Best decision ever made.   

2. Can you share one of your most memorable interpreting experiences? 

This question is a challenging one.  LOL  After 25+ years in the field, and countless assignments, it’s impossible to give you just ONE.  I have had the honor and privilege to interpret for couples bringing life into this world in Labor & Delivery.  I have seen people through successful college careers, and interpreted for their first “real job” interviews.  I have traveled around the world doing this work. I have mentored future interpreters, and taught college classes.  I LOVE the challenging assignments, VRI work being my favorit.  I LOVE Sign-to-Voice work.  Most of all, I LOVE breaking down and assessing the language for meaning.  To truly capture the essence of the message, and see it through to a successful facilitation of communication.      

3. What do you find most rewarding about interpreting, and what keeps you passionate about it? 

The variety.  It is always something different.  Always a new challenge, and something new to learn.  I work with a variety of people this way too.   

4. How do you approach continuing education and staying up-to-date in the interpreting industry? 

Continuing to learn is extremely important!  It never stops.  I do this by attending workshops that are presented by Deaf people, reading/researching online, peer group discussions, and staying actively involved in the Deaf community.  Also, keeping up on current events is critical to what we do as interpreters.  Working with and consulting CDIs is a must!   

5. What advice would you give to aspiring interpreters or those new to the field? 

Expect the unexpected, be flexible, stay humble, never stop wanting to learn and grow, stay organized, find a Deaf mentor and interpreter mentor, recognize your strengths and areas where you need work, admit when you are wrong or don’t know, and GET CERTIFIED.  Remember there are more than a few ways to do something.  Not always black and white.  Know your limitations, but at the same time set goals.     

6. What do you enjoy most about working with DSU? 

The coordinators are simply amazing!!  Wonderful to work with, and very professional.  I feel like I am part of a large team.  I feel that DSU is very Deaf Centric, and the main objective is to do what is best for their clients. Lastly, DSU is very organized and clear in communication.  It is wonderful.   

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Q&A

1. What inspired Kelly Dagley to become an interpreter?
   Kelly’s journey began at 13 when she worked as a summer nanny for a Deaf family. Immersed in American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf culture, she developed a deep passion for the language. Encouraged by Deaf friends during college, she pursued a degree in linguistics and Deaf Studies, solidifying her path as a certified interpreter.

2. Can Kelly share a memorable interpreting experience?
Over her 25+ years in the field, Kelly has had the privilege of interpreting in diverse settings—from assisting in labor and delivery rooms to guiding individuals through job interviews. She finds fulfillment in challenging assignments, particularly Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) and Sign-to-Voice work, where capturing the essence of the message is paramount.

3. What does Kelly find most rewarding about interpreting?
The variety and constant learning opportunities keep Kelly passionate. Each assignment presents new challenges and the chance to work with a diverse range of individuals, making every day unique and fulfilling.

4. How does Kelly approach continuing education in interpreting?
Kelly emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning. She attends workshops led by Deaf individuals, engages in peer group discussions, stays active in the Deaf community, and keeps abreast of current events to enhance her interpreting skills.

5. What advice does Kelly offer to aspiring interpreters?
Kelly advises newcomers to be adaptable, stay humble, and continuously seek growth. She stresses the importance of certification, finding mentors within the Deaf and interpreting communities, and recognizing both strengths and areas for improvement.