Cawthon Delivers First Commencement Address in ASL at UT Austin
In an important “first” for The University of Texas College of Education, Dr. Stephanie Cawthon delivered a commencement address in American Sign Language (ASL) at the fall 2020 graduation ceremony.
Her address, which was interpreted by Amanda Katz, advised graduates to prioritize people over projects, lean into their communities, be wholehearted, and find their champions — assuring them that it really is okay to make a mistake.
“What would you do if you weren’t afraid?” Dr. Cawthon asked the graduates. “The paths from here will be challenging, there is no doubt about it. This pandemic has and will bring changes that none of us can anticipate, but we can be ready.
“What you have done here at UT is part of being ready. Your critical thinking. Your degree, and all that it represents. Your hard work. You have the chance to truly change the world with your grit, innovation, and passion.
“To the class of 2020, congratulations, be brave, and know that you will always have us with you. Your courage is contagious.”
Dr. Cawthon was the featured speaker for the commencement ceremony, which was held online on December 5, 2020, due to the pandemic and was conducted by Dean Charles Martinez. Dr. Cawthon was joined by doctoral speaker Kaitlin Bernell, a PhD student in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy, and undergraduate speaker Amariah Moore.