Meet Alison Parham

When Alison Parham first encountered American Sign Language (ASL) as a student in 2000, she never expected it would later become central to her education, her career goals, and even her family life. Today, she is both a full-time mom and a full-time student in Reynolds Community College’s ASL Interpreter Education Program, where her studies are deeply connected to her role as mother to her six-year-old son, Carson, who has Down syndrome and autism.

“ASL has given us a bridge,” Alison says. “Carson doesn’t sign much himself, but he understands it very well. That shared language has become one of the sweetest connections between us.”

For Alison, ASL is also a form of healing. “It feels almost therapeutic,” she explains. “I speak with my hands, and in a very hectic life, that quiets my mind in the healthiest way. It pushes me outside of my comfort zone, calls me to believe in myself, and allows me to be of service to others.”

Why Reynolds?

When Alison began researching schools, Reynolds immediately stood out. “Reynolds has an excellent ASL program,” she says. “When I visited, it had this relaxed but professional, close-knit feel. I loved the diversity, the practical tuition, and the many opportunities for support. It felt like the kind of environment where I could not only learn but truly thrive.”

That first impression has held true. “Reynolds has given me confidence,” Alison reflects. “I’ve seen so many others who don’t fit the ‘typical mold’ grow and thrive here. In that process, I’ve found the courage to believe in myself too.”

Challenges and Perseverance

Balancing motherhood and school is Alison’s greatest challenge. “There are days when I’m playing with kinetic sand with one hand while typing answers with the other, or watching a lecture while cooking dinner,” she says with a smile. “I haven’t mastered pacing myself yet. But my son is my ‘why.’ Every sacrifice reminds me why I must finish.”

Through it all, her instructors have been a source of encouragement. “My ASL professors model patience, passion, and professionalism. On days when I felt stretched thin, their belief in me helped me believe in myself.”

Highlights Along the Way

Alison points to two moments that stand out from her Reynolds experience.

First was the Executive Women International Scholarship Luncheon. “It was a dream to be seen and celebrated among my peers, with faculty and staff supporting me, and my son right by my side to witness it all,” she recalls.

Second was her induction into Phi Theta Kappa. “Dr. Lori Dwyer’s words that night were so inspiring,” she says. “Walking across the stage and being recognized reminded me that I belong here and that my hard work matters.”

She has also enjoyed the program’s ASL Game Night. “It’s family-oriented, fun, and immersive. It’s such a powerful way to practice language in a real setting. Every time I leave, I feel more confident and encouraged by this community.”

Preparing for the Future

After graduation, Alison hopes to become a certified ASL community interpreter, working in hospitals, schools, and courts to help remove communication barriers. She also dreams of interpreting in music and Deaf literature, blending language, culture, and creativity to inspire connection and representation.

Long-term, she hopes to support other families as well. “Learning ASL has helped me bridge communication with my son. It gives me a desire to help other families build that same bridge.”

Advice for Others

For prospective students, Alison’s advice is simple: “Visit the campus. Meet the people. You’ll see the difference. Reynolds isn’t just a school—it’s a community that will meet you where you are and help you get where you’re meant to go.”

For students who may be struggling, she stresses the importance of reaching out. “Reynolds has an excellent Student Support Services Center, a Tutoring Center that’s eager to help, and instructors who truly care. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. And remember your why—lean on your higher power, and keep going.”

A Journey of Growth

Looking back, Alison views her time at Reynolds as a transformation. “Reynolds has given me the ability to step into my own. It’s teaching me that it’s okay to be myself—and that I’m stronger than I realized.”

As she looks ahead, she knows she’s not only gaining the skills for her career but also becoming the person she was meant to be. “I’ll walk into my future more solid in who I am,” Alison says. “And I’ll be dedicated to helping others, just as Reynolds has helped me.”