- Master of Education in Language and Literacy with the specialization in ASL from Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Bachelor of Arts in Family and Child Studies from Gallaudet University, Washington D.C
Areas of expertise
American Sign Language Education
BIO
Colleen McGilpin is an ASL instructor at the University of Vermont. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Family and Child Studies from Gallaudet University and a Master of Education in Language and Literacy with a focus on American Sign Language and Deaf Studies from Boston University.
Her areas of expertise and interest include American Sign Language, language acquisition, visual learning, and inclusive teaching practices. As a native ASL user, Colleen brings both lived experience and academic knowledge into the classroom, providing students with an authentic and culturally grounded approach to learning ASL.
Prior to joining UVM, Colleen taught American Sign Language at the University of Pennsylvania and has taught ASL in a variety of educational settings across Massachusetts, Connecticut, Texas, and Pennsylvania. Her teaching emphasizes communication, visual engagement, cultural awareness, and creating a supportive environment where students can build confidence in their language skills. She is passionate about helping students develop their ASL fluency while deepening their understanding of the Culture, Deaf communities, and the rich linguistic and cultural foundations of American Sign Language.
Courses
ASL 100 and 200, American Sign Language 1 and 2
Awards and Achievements
Penn Women's Basketball Most Valuable Professor Fall 2025, University of Pennsylvania
Bio
Colleen McGilpin is an ASL instructor at the University of Vermont. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Family and Child Studies from Gallaudet University and a Master of Education in Language and Literacy with a focus on American Sign Language and Deaf Studies from Boston University.
Her areas of expertise and interest include American Sign Language, language acquisition, visual learning, and inclusive teaching practices. As a native ASL user, Colleen brings both lived experience and academic knowledge into the classroom, providing students with an authentic and culturally grounded approach to learning ASL.
Prior to joining UVM, Colleen taught American Sign Language at the University of Pennsylvania and has taught ASL in a variety of educational settings across Massachusetts, Connecticut, Texas, and Pennsylvania. Her teaching emphasizes communication, visual engagement, cultural awareness, and creating a supportive environment where students can build confidence in their language skills. She is passionate about helping students develop their ASL fluency while deepening their understanding of the Culture, Deaf communities, and the rich linguistic and cultural foundations of American Sign Language.
Courses
ASL 100 and 200, American Sign Language 1 and 2
Awards and Achievements
Penn Women's Basketball Most Valuable Professor Fall 2025, University of Pennsylvania