In continuing to explore tools to further foster an inclusive campus environment, the University’s Information Technology Services (ITS) division, in partnership with the Libraries, has announced a pilot launch of Sign‑Speak, an innovative real-time American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation service. Sign-Speak is available to all students, faculty, staff and visitors to test until Dec. 16, 2025.

Sign‑Speak aims to bridge communication gaps for Deaf, Hard of Hearing and hearing individuals, ensuring seamless interactions across campus. Deaf-owned and developed by a team of passionate innovators in close partnership with the Deaf community, Sign‑Speak leverages advanced artificial intelligence (AI) to interpret ASL into spoken or written English, and vice versa.

Users can access the service through a simple camera interface on their smartphones, tablets or computers, eliminating the need for specialized hardware. This accessibility tool is designed to support a variety of campus activities, including lectures, meetings, social events and everyday conversations.

The introduction of Sign‑Speak aligns with the University’s ongoing commitment to digital accessibility. By integrating this service into daily campus life, the University continues to set a standard for accessibility in higher education.

“As a Deaf person, Sign Speak is a great tool that I wished existed when I was an undergraduate,” says Corinne Sartori, accessibility specialist with Libraries Information & Technology. “I recall struggling to participate in clubs and social settings because of the lack of tools available to me to communicate with peers and my hearing friends. Isolation due to lack of language access is a common occurrence amongst our community. Sign-Speak gives users the ability to have an interpreter on their phone at no cost to the user wherever they go and whatever they are doing. It allows equal access to participate in the same communities as those with hearing. I am excited to share this tool with others in hopes of making the University more inclusive in everyday life.”

“Sign-Speak is the breakthrough in AI-powered ASL interpretation we’ve long been waiting for,” says Christian Jones, senior digital accessibility specialist with ITS, “empowering individuals to engage in everyday experiences independently while enhancing communication across our community. What makes it even more significant is that it’s developed by and with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, ensuring authentic representation at every level.”

“Syracuse University is committed to fostering a campus that welcomes and supports all students, faculty, and staff,” says Eric Sedore, associate vice president for information technology and chief technology officer. “Sign-Speak represents exactly the kind of innovative tool that advances that mission, and I’m excited to see our community take advantage of this new technology.”

How Do I Use Sign-Speak?

Students, faculty, staff and visitors are encouraged to explore Sign‑Speak during this trial period. Participation is essential and usage data will help ITS assess the demand for this service and determine whether it can be offered as a permanent campus resource.

All you need is a device with a camera and an internet or cellular connection. Open Sign-Speak on your device, choose whether you want to sign, speak or type, and the app will translate your communication in real time. You can use it on your computer, tablet or phone.

For more information about the pilot of Sign-Speak and guidance for using the tool, visit Sign-Speak Interpreting Service or contact the Digital Accessibility Services team at accessibleIT@syr.edu.