A Sign of a True Professional

Lisa visits Antigua on one of her many cruises

Lisa loves to cruise, there's no doubt about that! I think it's safe to say, Lisa might just be one of those interpreters who could spend week after week on a cruise ship, visiting exotic destinations. But alas, Lisa's talents are also needed back at home in Jacksonville, where she works as an Equal Employment Access (EEA) Specialist in the Jacksonville Human Rights Commission (HRC). She also works as a freelance interpreter in her "spare time" in college classes, at a variety of stage shows, and helping Deaf individuals make phone calls.

Like many of the interpreters I meet, Lisa seemed to accidentally fall in to this profession. During her previous career, Lisa had a client who was Deaf. Wanting to make sure she could communicate with her client, Lisa began taking sign language classes offered by a local church. Lisa also had a co-worker whose wife was also Deaf, and after forming a fast friendship, they began encouraged Lisa to pursue her interest while helping her signing skills.

“Back then I was signing at every chance I had. I even signed when I read my boys bedtime stories, even though they didn’t like that too much,” Lisa said.

When Lisa's offices closed in 1996, she decided to take her career in a different direction, went back to school to earn her degree in signing and went on earn her state and national certifications in American Sign Language. Now, Lisa works with several agencies, local colleges helping hearing impaired students take classes, and a video relay service (VRS) agent. 

Between her mainland work and her work on cruises, it's obvious Lisa's a busy lady. One might be left to wonder how she has time for anything else. What I can tell you is Lisa might just be one of the most active people I know.

From zip lining through the jungles, riding horses on the beach, if Lisa can find the adventure, you can bet she's first in line. But the quieter side of Lisa also just wants a good book, sitting by the water, with good food, and a killer sunset. Of all the places Lisa has traveled, still her favorite place is her hometown of Hollywood Beach, Florida.

Lisa's list of must haves? Family, friends, food, and fun... what more could anyone ask for? Lisa describes her perfect day like this:

"I would gather my immediate family make sure they are all there; my sons could bring their girlfriends, my mom and sisters and their families, and we would play and eat the whole day away. Some outdoor games like Frisbee, then rest up indoors with some silly, fun, playfully competitive board games. My older sister, the best cook in the world, would have to whip up a feast like a Mexican buffet including desserts, and we would eat & laugh the day away."

That sounds pretty good to me, Lisa. Pretty darn good. 

I've enjoyed working with Lisa tremendously over the past several years, and I look forward to many more. 

THANK YOU, LISA! CareVacations appreciates you!!!!!