Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites & Profiles
Certification
Languages
Accomplishments
Affiliations
Timeline
Faith Cogar

Faith Cogar

Summary

Qualified ASL Interpreter with strong background in facilitating communication between Deaf and hearing individuals. Personable and empathetic communicator with deep understanding of American Sign Language and Deaf culture. Adept at facilitating clear and accurate communication between Deaf and hearing individuals. Committed to fostering inclusive environments and ensuring effective communication access for all.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience
2
2

Certifications

Work History

Substitute Educational Interpreter

Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio
08.2024 - Current
  • Substitute Interpreter for the Parma City School District.
  • Implemented creative teaching strategies that catered specifically to the learning styles of deaf or hard-of-hearing students, resulting in increased engagement and understanding.
  • Tracked correspondence and response to services to maintain student files.
  • Coordinated with other educational interpreters to ensure continuous service delivery during absences or scheduling conflicts.
  • Reviewed classroom material in advance to convey clear and accurate translation.
  • Adapted interpreting styles as needed to accommodate various age groups, subject matter, and language preferences of individual students.

Video Relay Interpreter Apprentice

ZP Better Together
08.2024 - Current
  • Provided exceptional customer service, addressing any concerns or issues promptly and professionally.
  • Maintained a high level of professionalism and confidentiality when handling sensitive information during video relay calls.
  • Participated in ongoing quality assurance evaluations, using constructive feedback from supervisors to further improve my interpreting skills.
  • Collaborated with fellow interpreters to improve service quality and share best practices for interpretation techniques.
  • Actively participated in continuing education opportunities to stay current with advancements in the ASL interpreting field.
  • Attended regular training sessions to maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry standards, trends, and emerging technologies.
  • Adapted quickly to changing circumstances within calls, ensuring seamless transitions between topics or speakers as needed.
  • Developed an extensive knowledge of industry-specific terminology for various fields, allowing me to provide more accurate interpretations across multiple sectors.

Educational Interpreter

Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio
08.2023 - 08.2024
  • Interpreted for Parma City School District as a one on one student interpreter. Also provided substitute interpreting services for other children in the district when my student was absent.
  • Supported the integration of assistive technology devices within the classroom setting, enabling equal access to learning materials for all students.
  • Implemented creative teaching strategies that catered specifically to the learning styles of deaf or hard-of-hearing students, resulting in increased engagement and understanding.
  • Coordinated with other educational interpreters to ensure continuous service delivery during absences or scheduling conflicts.
  • Promoted a positive learning atmosphere by fostering respectful relationships among diverse groups of learners in the classroom community.
  • Served as a knowledgeable resource on deaf culture and ASL for both students and staff, contributing to an inclusive learning environment.

Volunteer ASL Interpreter

Grace CMA
06.2022 - 11.2023
  • Evaluated performance as an interpreter regularly, seeking feedback from both deaf clients and peer interpreters to continuously improve skills and maintain high levels of client satisfaction.
  • Enhanced communication between clients and non-English speakers by providing accurate translations in real-time (platform interpreting) church services.
  • Demonstrated cultural sensitivity when working with diverse populations, adapting sign language choices to accommodate regional differences in vocabulary or syntax whenever possible.
  • Kept up-to-date with industry-specific terminology and jargon to accurately interpret technical or specialized language.
  • Prepares for interpreting tasks by researching and gathering information about tasks beforehand. Reviewed, edited and proofread translated documents for accuracy.

ASL Interpreter and Cashier

A Christmas Story House And Museum
09.2018 - 08.2023
  • Facilitated communication between tour guides and individuals Deaf/HOH individuals touring premises by providing tour interpreting services.
  • Provided language translation and customer service skills to clients in both retail and tourist business sectors. Responsibilities included interpreting transactions and any questions individuals might have had.
  • Cashier and receptionist for retail gift shop, responsibilities include maintaining stocking of merchandise, inventory managing, pricing of products, and setting up product displays.
  • Performed grounds keeping tasks including heavy lifting, laying of mulch and stone, shoveling snow, mowing, salting, raking and bagging leaves, trash removal, digging and planting flower beds, washing fences, painting, scrubbing brick, white washing, general upkeep and handiwork maintenance for all 7 properties.

Direct Support Professional

Consumer Support Services
06.2020 - 06.2021
  • Acquired and Maintained CPR, CPI Physical, CPI Verbal, and FirstAid certificates and completed the Bill of Rights for People with Developmental Disabilities and NADSP required DSP trainings.
  • Determined specific needs and provided most appropriate level of services for patient well-being for 4-6 individuals.
  • Maintained clean, safe, and well-organized patient environment.
  • Ran errands for patients, did shopping, and picked up other necessities.
  • Documented progress notes thoroughly to track client achievements, concerns, or changes in behavior patterns that may need attention from the interdisciplinary team.
  • Assisted with crisis intervention to de-escalate challenging behavior and maintain peaceful encounters.
  • Monitored medication administration, maintaining accurate records to ensure client safety and compliance with prescribed treatment plans.
  • Planned, prepared, and served meals according to prescribed diets.

Volunteer College ASL Tutor

Cuyahoga Community College Western Campus
02.2021 - 04.2021
  • Ensured student success by providing detailed feedback on assignments, quizzes, and exams.
  • Empowered students to overcome barriers in communication by teaching effective strategies for expressive and receptive ASL skills.
  • Supported students in achieving personal goals related to ASL proficiency and career aspirations.
  • Increased ASL fluency among students by implementing immersive language-learning activities.
  • Fostered a positive rapport with each student by demonstrating genuine interest in their growth as an ASL learner.

Volunteer ASL Tutor

Dori Hauser
12.2020 - 01.2021
  • Utilized multimedia resources in lessons, creating a dynamic and interactive classroom environment.
  • Helped pre-k child learn and retain signs for communication through play as well as reviewed signs learned with aunt so that she could communicate with her niece in ASL.
  • Empowered low-language student to overcome barriers in communication by teaching basic signs and encouraging use of ASL skills.

Substitute ASL Teacher

HFJC Educational Institute Private School
08.2019 - 03.2020


  • Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
  • Was repeatedly requested to substitute teach based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
  • Boosted ASL vocabulary retention through consistent reinforcement of learned signs and phrases in classroom activities.
  • Adapted teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.
  • Increased cultural awareness by integrating Deaf culture information into lessons, fostering respect and understanding among students.

Volunteer Acting Coach

HFJC Educational Institute Private School
01.2019 - 03.2019
  • Guided actors through character development processes, leading to more authentic and believable performances on stage and screen and enhanced actors' performance skills by providing customized coaching sessions tailored to individual needs and goals.
  • Collaborated with director to ensure alignment of acting coach objectives with overall production goals.
  • Implemented an effective feedback system that allowed open communication between coach and student, fostering mutual trust and respect within the learning process.
  • Established a supportive learning environment that fostered creativity and risk-taking, promoting growth as both artists and individuals for students.

Music Instructor

HFJC Educational Institute Private School
08.2018 - 03.2019
  • Enhanced student performance by developing individualized lesson plans tailored to their strengths and weaknesses.
  • Fostered inviting and comfortable learning environments for students to promote enthusiasm for the recorder instrument and commitment to practicing.
  • Provided constructive feedback during one-on-one instruction sessions, enabling students to refine their skills more effectively.
  • Designed engaging practice routines that reinforced essential skills while keeping learners motivated and focused on improvement goals.
  • Instructed students from ages 4 to 12 in playing the recorder, reading sheet music and general music appreciation.
  • Organized recitals to showcase students' growth and accomplishments, fostering a sense of pride and achievement.

Private Home Tutor

Mandy Pekar
01.2018 - 06.2018
  • Provided one-on-one support for students facing academic challenges, resulting in improved grades and increased confidence in their abilities.
  • Utilized engaging resources such as educational games and multimedia materials to supplement traditional teaching methods, enriching the learning experience.
  • Collaborated with parents to address specific needs and goals for their children''s academic progress.
  • Improved student comprehension by utilizing tailored teaching methods for individual learning styles.
  • Adapted lesson plans to accommodate diverse learner needs, promoting inclusion and equal opportunities for all students.

Fashion Design Apprenticeship

Center for Arts Inspired Learning
06.2016 - 08.2016
  • Gained valuable experience working within a specific industry, applying learned concepts directly into relevant work situations.
  • Worked with peers to put on a fashion show for children from the Laura's Home women's shelter.
  • Made multiple full outfits for children during the program which were then gifted to the children from the fashion show and any extra outfits were then donated to the Laura's home for other children to have their own handmade garments.
  • Analyzed problems and worked with teams to develop solutions.
  • Developed organizational skills through managing multiple tasks simultaneously while adhering to strict deadlines.
  • Contributed to a positive team environment by collaborating with fellow interns on group projects and presentations and collaborated with peers to create personal brand of clothing specifically for children.

Volunteer Culinary Arts Camp Counselor

Calvary Reformed Church
07.2015 - 11.2015
  • Volunteered at the Inner City Arts Camp program provided by Calvary Reformed Church as an assistant leader to teach real life skills and give artistic opportunities to children with limited resources, as well as provide a safe space of community to foster a desire for learning and growth.
  • Worked with children of varying age, interest, skill, and developmental levels.
  • Ensured participant safety by enforcing camp rules, supervising group activities, and responding promptly to incidents or concerns.
  • Led groups of children safely through variety of camp activities including working with other leaders to teach children how to cook for themselves and their families.
  • Acted as a positive role model, demonstrating strong leadership skills and exemplifying the camp's core values.

Theater Apprenticeship

Center for Arts Inspired Learning
06.2015 - 08.2015
  • Collaborated with a team to write and produce "We Matter" an equality themed dramatic production.
  • Increased public speaking and communicative skills.
  • Researched topic to make informed decisions and inspire creativity.
  • Led small group work and provided feedback to peers.
  • Performed/exhibited the final product to an audience of peers, supporting staff and public.
  • Gained valuable experience working within a specific industry, applying learned concepts directly into relevant work situations.

Volunteer VBS Camp Counselor

Grace Church CMA
06.2011 - 06.2015
  • Assist in the set up and maintenance of camp
  • Worked with children of varying age, interest, skill, and developmental levels.
  • Creation of props, decorations, teacher's aides, and visual art according to the annual program theme using crafting skills.
  • Ensured camper safety by enforcing camp rules, supervising group activities, and responding promptly to incidents or concerns.
  • Led children in group activities
  • Helped parents with drop off, and pick up of their children
  • Aided teachers in the supervision of children during the program.

Volunteer Foodbank Distributer

Calvary Reformed Church
01.2013 - 02.2015
  • Help to distribute fresh food and baked goods for the Produce to the People program through the Cleveland Food Bank, and occasionally assisted in distribution of canned and processed food during food pantry days on a monthly basis.
  • Maintained physical capability of lifting upwards of 75 lbs. and standing for long periods of time.
  • Exercised assisting and guiding people through line of service
  • Streamlined distribution processes for improved efficiency and reduced wait times.

Education

Bachelor of Science - ASL Interpreting

William Woods University, Fulton, MO
08-2023
  • American Sign Language Honor's Society Member
  • Capstone Project: Why is Self Care so Important for Interpreters to Practice?, Research Paper
  • Interpreting Practicum: Grace CMA

Associate of Applied Science - Deaf Interpretive Services

Cuyahoga Community College, Parma, OH
06-2021
  • Summa Cum Laude Graduate
  • Phi Theta Kappa Honor's Society Member
  • ASL Club Vice President
  • Practicum: Champion Schools Pre-K through 12th grade

Associate of Arts - Liberal Arts

Cuyahoga Community College, Parma, OH
12-2020
  • Dean's List November, 2019
  • Awarded 3rd place in Tri-C's Art League for Innovation Student Art Competition
  • Summa Cum Laude graduate
  • ASL Club Member
  • Phi Theta Kappa Honor's Society Member

Skills

  • Problem-Solving
  • Dependable and Responsible
  • Classroom management
  • American Sign Language Fluency
  • Safety awareness
  • Reliability and punctuality

  • Communication strategies
  • Customer service
  • Stage presence
  • Cleaning and sanitizing
  • Music theory
  • Heavy lifting

Websites & Profiles

My Website: https://cogarfaith1.wixsite.com/faith-cogar


My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faith-cogar-44abb11a9/

Certification

  • New Homebuyers CreditSmart Certified
  • OHI State Board of Education 5 Year Associate License
  • Fire Safety Awareness Certified
  • CPR Certified

Languages

English
American Sign Language

Accomplishments

  • Completed the Bill of Rights for People with Developmental Disabilities and NADSP required DSP trainings
  • Completed Medication Administration Certification (CTGRY1) 07/08/2020
  • Completed CPI Physical Certification 11/25/2021
  • Completed CPI Verbal Certification 11/25/2021
  • Completed First Aid Certification 06/10/2020

Affiliations

  • RID Member
  • OCRID Member

Timeline

Substitute Educational Interpreter - Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio
08.2024 - Current
Video Relay Interpreter Apprentice - ZP Better Together
08.2024 - Current
Educational Interpreter - Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio
08.2023 - 08.2024
Volunteer ASL Interpreter - Grace CMA
06.2022 - 11.2023
Volunteer College ASL Tutor - Cuyahoga Community College Western Campus
02.2021 - 04.2021
Volunteer ASL Tutor - Dori Hauser
12.2020 - 01.2021
Direct Support Professional - Consumer Support Services
06.2020 - 06.2021
Substitute ASL Teacher - HFJC Educational Institute Private School
08.2019 - 03.2020
Volunteer Acting Coach - HFJC Educational Institute Private School
01.2019 - 03.2019
ASL Interpreter and Cashier - A Christmas Story House And Museum
09.2018 - 08.2023
Music Instructor - HFJC Educational Institute Private School
08.2018 - 03.2019
Private Home Tutor - Mandy Pekar
01.2018 - 06.2018
Fashion Design Apprenticeship - Center for Arts Inspired Learning
06.2016 - 08.2016
Volunteer Culinary Arts Camp Counselor - Calvary Reformed Church
07.2015 - 11.2015
Theater Apprenticeship - Center for Arts Inspired Learning
06.2015 - 08.2015
Volunteer Foodbank Distributer - Calvary Reformed Church
01.2013 - 02.2015
Volunteer VBS Camp Counselor - Grace Church CMA
06.2011 - 06.2015
William Woods University - Bachelor of Science, ASL Interpreting
Cuyahoga Community College - Associate of Applied Science, Deaf Interpretive Services
Cuyahoga Community College - Associate of Arts, Liberal Arts
Faith Cogar