Katherine Hamilton, an English major and Disability Studies minor, presented an original research project titled “The Misrepresentation of American Sign Language and Deaf Culture in Mainstream Film Media: A Call for Inclusive Representation” at the the UTA 34th Annual McNair Scholars Research Symposium, hosted by the Office of Undergraduate Research on August 10, 2023. 

Kat’s research advisor was Dr. Lisalee Egbert, who teaches ASL in the Department of Modern Languages at UTA. The Ronald McNair Program is a federally funded program named after the African American astronaut Dr. Ronald E. McNair, and which seeks to promote preparedness for Ph.D. level work among underserved and underrepresented students through a summer research internship and other specialized training. Kat’s research abstract states: “This research examines the misrepresentation of Deaf Culture and ASL in film and its impact on real-world interactions between Deaf and hearing c/Communities. By analyzing historical film trends, bringing modern trends to light, and creating educational tools, this study aims to create measurable change in media practice… The results of this study are intended to impact Deaf and hearing c/Communities by educating production companies on the realities of working with Deaf actors and crew, strategizing methods to do so, and educating consumers.” Dr. Lisalee Egbert praised Kat’s talent in designing, implementing, and analyzing data, stating “I look forward to seeing Ms. Hamilton grow beyond McNair into a dynamic professional and advocacy for social justice for both the Deaf Community as well as mainstream communities!”

Kat first became interested in Deaf Culture by studying ASL in High School with a Deaf teacher who promoted critical awareness of how the Deaf and their Culture are represented in media. Kat studies ASL in Modern Languages and is President of the Mavericks with Disabilities club. Working with Dr. Egbert has been transformative for Kat. “Dr. Egbert has spent countless hours with me teaching me about her Culture in the hopes we can bridge the divide between the Deaf and the hearing world,” Kat said. “I’ve never met anyone more patient nor more determined to make the world a better place for everyone who resides in it. One conversation with Dr. Egbert will make anyone inspired to go out and make a positive difference in their surroundings.” Kat is currently a junior at UTA and is looking forward to getting a Ph.D. in English and becoming a university professor.