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DT Bruno, LSW, LMSW, is a deaf Latino social worker from Florida. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from Gallaudet University and Columbia University, respectively. Bruno spent three years in community mental health after receiving his master’s degree, during which he worked with children and collaborated with school districts. He currently teaches social work courses in the master’s degree program at Gallaudet. Bruno also does private practice, for which he provides psychotherapy services.
Parent
Yiesell Huerta, a mother of three, focuses on supporting families with deaf children, drawing from her experiences raising son Marcus, who communicates in American Sign Language and English. With 12+ years of experience, she empowers parents to advocate for their children. Huerta is the Latino Family Outreach coordinator for the American Society for Deaf Children. She is also the vice president for CA Hands & Voices and the camp director for the Inland Valley DHH and Microtia Atresia Family Camp.
Educator/School District
Coordinator for DHH
Stefanie Kessen, MEd, is renowned for her expertise in the Itinerant Model, boasting over 25 years in the field. Her diverse experience includes roles as a teacher of the deaf in various settings and as a college and community interpreter. As a former education specialist for deaf and hard of hearing students in Wisconsin, she supported itinerant teachers statewide. In 2017, Kessen founded The Online Itinerant. She is currently president of the Convention of American Instructors of the Deaf, continuing her impactful contributions to the field of deaf education.
IEP Coordinator/Administrator
Madalyn Perez, a learning disabilities teacher consultant at Newark Public Schools, boasts over 19 years of special education experience. Holding degrees in deaf education and special education, she’s worked with various districts, including Paterson and Newark. Beyond education, Perez pastors Newark Community Church, recognized for its community impact, alongside her husband. She treasures her family, comprising her husband Carlos and their three boys. Her paramount goal is to create cherished memories with her loved ones while living a God-centered life.
Related Service Provider
Holly Rioux, LICSW, a deaf social worker, brings nearly 20 years of experience in deaf mental health and human services. Notably, she directed a statewide deaf mental health program at Greater Nashua Mental Health in New Hampshire, expanding its services. Rioux’s advocacy extends to supporting legislation such as the New Hampshire Deaf Child Bill of Rights. She is currently a communication access administrator at the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, focusing on macro social work initiatives for local communities.
