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ProgramarMay 5 is Sign Language Interpreter Appreciation Day
SALT LAKE CITY (May 3, 2021) – This year, the world saw American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters deliver essential communication services at press briefings, the Superbowl, the Oscars, the presidential inauguration, and – for the first time – during President Biden’s address to a joint session of Congress last week. These are snapshots of the importance of communication inclusion. But they are also glimpses into crucial connections that happen every day and everywhere – especially where it’s needed most: between people.
“Interpreters are integral to communication between Deaf and hearing people,” notes Scott Wood, CEO of Sorenson Communications, the leading provider of relay, on-site, and in-person interpreting services. “As the largest employer of sign language interpreters in the world, we celebrate interpreters and their dedication to rapid, effective, essential communication, and understanding – not only on May 5, Interpreter Appreciation Day – but every day of the year. We thank all interpreters for their efforts to inform, explain, and facilitate connections between people who are Deaf and hearing so that fundamental communication – real sharing of ideas, thoughts, and feelings can occur, not by accident, but through language.”
Many Americans are not aware that communication access is a basic human right. The 1990 landmark Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates Deaf and hard-of-hearing people have equal access to the same communication that hearing people have. The ADA also requires businesses that serve the public and government agencies to provide qualified sign language interpreters for most situations – at schools, job interviews, and critical medical events.
Especially important to the dissemination of public information are Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDIs) who, working in tandem with hearing ASL interpreters, bring unique linguistic, cultural, and historical knowledge to their interpretation.
As part of their work, many sign language interpreters interpret phone calls – millions of connections – through the FCC-regulated telephone relay system.
Says Laura Hartness, senior vice president of operations for Sorenson, “This year, with much of the world in lock-down and at greater risk for isolation and depression, our interpreters were, as always, open for business 24/7/365, even though many, too, were experiencing their own pandemic-related challenges. The pandemic forced these interpreters to adjust, which included embracing a wide variety of video communication platforms, all while moving to home offices where they could safely continue to process record numbers of calls.”
In an ongoing effort to provide the highest-quality sign language interpreting for the Deaf and hearing communities, Sorenson offers interpreters many opportunities for educational and professional development. Last year, because of the pandemic, Sorenson pivoted from offering traditional, in-person trainings to, instead, providing remote, instructor-led programs. Under the oversight of Sorenson’s Interpreter Education Professional Development Department, more than 6,000 interpreters received a combined 28,000 hours of instruction.
To learn more about the services Sorenson Interpreting provides, visit https://sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/services/interpreting/
For more information about Sorenson Relay, visit https://sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/services/relay/
About Sorenson Communications, LLC
Connecting Life. Sorenson Communications (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) was founded on the principle that communication and being understood is fundamental to the human experience. Inspired by this belief and the core values of our communities, we develop the most trusted communication offerings, including Sorenson Relay, the highest-quality video interpreting service, and Sorenson Interpreting, which matches qualified sign language interpreters to specific assignment needs. As the largest employer of sign language interpreters, Sorenson endeavors to provide each customer with an exceptional communication experience.
Sorenson offers innovative, Deaf-specific communication products, such as ntouch® videophones and ntouch software applications that connect PC, Mac®, and mobile device users to Sorenson Relay. For more information, visit sorenson2021es.wpengine.com.
The trademarks used herein are property of their respective owners.
Press Contact
Ann Bardsley
Director of Public Relations
Sorenson Communications and CaptionCall
801-287-9400
For release: April 29, 2021
SALT LAKE CITY – (April 29, 2021) – Today, Sorenson Communications and CaptionCall were named as winners of a Silver Stevie® Award in the COVID-19 Response category in the 19th Annual American Business Awards®.
“We are honored to be recognized for our commitment to the health and safety of our customers and employees,” says Sorenson Communications and CaptionCall Chief Executive Officer Scott Wood. “The pandemic presented many unique challenges over the past year, but we quickly pulled together to simultaneously provide essential communication services to our customers while we safeguarded our teams.”
The American Business Awards are considered the premier business recognition program in the United States. All organizations operating in the U.S. are eligible to submit nominations – public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small.
More than 3,800 nominations – a record number – from organizations of all sizes and in every industry were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of categories. Nominated in the COVID-19 Response category for Most Exemplary Employer, Sorenson Communications and CaptionCall received one out of two silver awards presented. More than 250 professionals worldwide participated in the judging process to select this year’s Stevie Award winners.
In early March 2020, Sorenson Communications and CaptionCall recognized the severity of COVID-19 and acted swiftly to protect its more than 10,000 employees, while still providing essential communication services for people with hearing and speech disabilities. The company enabled 95 percent of its headquarters staff to work from home, along with the majority of its operations team. The IT and engineering teams worked quickly to get new systems configured and deployed and provided technical support to employees working remotely. Sorenson Communications and CaptionCall also added more than 1,000 jobs in 2020 and continued to strive for the safety of its employees while nurturing its unique company culture.
“What a fantastic demonstration of leadership, innovation, and growth during a time of tumult,” notes one of the judges, whose comments were anonymous. “Sorenson Communications took care of its customer population as well as its employees in a meaningful way and likely created heightened customer and employee loyalty.”
Says Stevie Awards president Maggie Gallagher: “The American economy continues to show its resilience, and as we’re poised on the beginning of what should be a phenomenal period of growth, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of a wide range of organizations and people over the past 18 months. This year’s Stevie-winning nominations in The American Business Awards are testament to the ingenuity, the commitment, the passion, the adaptability, and the creativity of the American people.”
About CaptionCall, LLC
CaptionCall (www.captioncall.com) is the industry leader in the provision of captioned-telephone service that is available at no-cost to anyone who has hearing loss that necessitates the use of captions to use the phone. While hearing loss affects millions of people for many different reasons – age, illness, injury, loud working conditions, and military service – it doesn’t have to limit the quality of their phone conversations. With CaptionCall, it’s easy to communicate confidently with friends, family, and colleagues.
CaptionCall uses advanced voice recognition technology, a transcription service, and human captioning agents to quickly provide written captions of what callers say on a large, easy-to-read screen. The CaptionCall phone works like a traditional telephone – callers simply dial and answer calls, as usual, and speak and listen using a phone handset. CaptionCall users see captions of what callers say.
All eligible customers receive Red Carpet Service that includes professional installation, product training, and friendly customer support, enabling people everywhere to get more from their phone conversations — and more from life.
About Sorenson Communications, LLC
Connecting Life. Sorenson Communications (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) was founded on the principle that communication and being understood is fundamental to the human experience. Inspired by this belief and the core values of our communities, we develop the most trusted communication offerings, including Sorenson Relay, the highest-quality video interpreting service, and Sorenson Interpreting, which matches qualified sign language interpreters to specific assignment needs. As the largest employer of sign language interpreters, Sorenson endeavors to provide each customer with an exceptional communication experience.
Sorenson offers innovative, Deaf-specific communication products, such as ntouch® videophones and ntouch software applications that connect PC, Mac®, and mobile device users to Sorenson Relay. For more information, visit www.sorenson.com.
Press Contact
Ann Bardsley
Director of Public Relations
Sorenson Communications and CaptionCall
801-287-9400
In 2020, more than 6,000 interpreters received a combined 28,000 hours of instruction
SALT LAKE CITY – (Feb. 2, 2021) Last year, the Sorenson Communications Interpreter Education and Professional Development (IEPD) department pivoted from offering traditional, in-person trainings to sign language interpreters to, instead, providing remote, instructor-led programs. The trainings provide continuing education units (CEUs), which are required for sign language interpreters to maintain professional credentialing.
“Sorenson is committed to ensuring interpreters have the tools and resources they need to deliver the best interpreting experiences for our customers,” notes Scott Wood, CEO of Sorenson Communications, the leading provider of communication solutions for people who are Deaf. “Despite the challenges, last year was unmatched in terms of phenomenal interpreter-training accomplishments!”
Sorenson interpreters participated remotely by attending trainings about more than 100 topics related to improving interpreting skills, self-care, social justice, and the impacts of power and privilege in their work. Interpreters chose from more than 1,000 eLearning, educational webinars, small group language, and interpreting mentoring opportunities.
Sorenson’s focus on education is both internal and community-based. Sorenson partners with more than 80 interpreter education programs (IEPs) that provide interpreting students with an introduction to becoming an interpreter as well as the opportunity to discuss the work of interpreting with professionals prior to graduation. While many college programs were limited in 2020 because of the pandemic, Sorenson’s Synergy Program stepped in to close the gap by providing over 1,500 hours of webinars, mentoring sessions, and remote practicum observations to more than 500 interpreting students!
Sorenson provided a “conference replacement” for more than 100 heritage language users who are bilingual children of one or more signing Deaf parents. Also known as Codas, the participants received more than 2,000 hours of instruction that supported their work and unique learning approaches.
In addition, Sorenson adapted an in-person training to a remote month-long course for advancing Deaf interpreters through Sorenson’s Deaf Interpreter Academy (DIA). The five-week remote course offered more than 28 workshops and mock interpreting experiences to over 50 Deaf interpreters. DIA’s goal is to raise awareness and share best practices for working with Deaf interpreters.
“The lessons learned in 2020 will drive us forward in 2021! Our goal is to continue to be the leader in delivering top-quality interpreting to our relay and community consumers. We do that by providing interpreters educational opportunities to continue their life-long learning,” notes Stephanie Criner, executive director of Sorenson’s IEPD team.
About Sorenson Communications, LLC
Connecting Life. Sorenson Communications (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) was founded on the principle that communication and being understood is fundamental to the human experience. Inspired by this belief and the core values of our communities, we develop the most trusted communication offerings, including Sorenson Relay, the highest-quality video interpreting service, and Sorenson Interpreting, which matches qualified sign language interpreters to specific assignment needs. As the largest private employer of Deaf people and sign language interpreters, Sorenson endeavors to provide each customer with an exceptional communication experience.
Sorenson offers innovative, Deaf-specific communication products, such as ntouch® videophones and ntouch software applications that connect PC, Mac®, and mobile device users to Sorenson Relay. For more information, visit sorenson2021es.wpengine.com.
Disclaimer
If you choose Sorenson as your default provider, you can port your existing 10-digit number to Sorenson from another provider or Sorenson can provide you with one for the geographic area where you live or work. If you later change your default provider, you can port your number to that provider. When selecting Sorenson, you must provide to Sorenson the physical address (i.e., the Registered Location) from which you are placing the call, so that Sorenson can properly route any 911 calls you may make. If you move or change your location, you must notify Sorenson immediately. You can update your Registered Location from your Sorenson videophone by calling 800-659-4810 or by visiting www.svrs.com/moving. Sorenson will confirm receipt of your Registered Location information. Emergency calls made via internet-based TRS may not function the same as traditional E911 service. For example, you may not be able to dial 911 if there is an internet-service failure or if you lose electrical power, and your 911 call may not be routed correctly if you have not updated your Registered Location. For more information on the process of obtaining 10-digit numbers and the limitations and risks associated with using Sorenson’s VRS to place a 911 call, please visit Sorenson’s website: sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/disclaimer. For information on toll-free numbering, please visit www.svrs.com/tollfree.
Press Contact
Ann Bardsley
Sorenson Communications
801-287-9400
Customers choose relay endpoints that match their unique communication needs
SALT LAKE CITY – (Sept. 23, 2020) Today, Sorenson Communications announced the launch of the Communication Access Relay Equipment (CARE) program, which, for a limited time, gives new and existing customers the option to choose two devices that best meet their Video Relay Service (VRS) needs. These relay devices, which may be limited, include the Sorenson ntouch® VP2 videophone, a laptop or a tablet pre-loaded with the ntouch app, and the Sorenson Pulse flasher.
“Sorenson is all about supporting customers as they adapt to ever-changing communication needs,” notes Sorenson CEO Scott Wood. “To that end, the CARE program offers flexible communication options to enable customers to connect with others from home, work, or while on-the-go.”
The customizable CARE package provides customers with access to more than 300 features Sorenson offers, including Sorenson’s popular myPhone, Group Call, Wavello, Call Transfer, and Call Forward, just to name a few.
In addition, Sorenson, the leading provider of communication solutions for people who are Deaf, provides white-glove service that includes one-on-one consultations and installations with Sorenson representatives as well as ongoing tech support and customer service.
Sorenson Relay is available to people who are Deaf and use sign language to communicate with voice telephone users through video equipment. New customers must complete the general application process to be qualified, which includes completing the Federal Communications Commission-mandated certification of eligibility.
To learn more, sign up online at sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/care or call 801-386-8500 to chat with a Sorenson team member.
About Sorenson Communications, LLC
Connecting Life. Sorenson Communications (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) was founded on the principle that communication and being understood is fundamental to the human experience. Inspired by this belief and the core values of our communities, we develop the most trusted communication offerings, including Sorenson Relay, the highest-quality video interpreting service, and Sorenson Interpreting, which matches qualified sign language interpreters to specific assignment needs. As the largest private employer of Deaf people and sign language interpreters, Sorenson endeavors to provide each customer with an exceptional communication experience.
Sorenson offers innovative, Deaf-specific communication products, such as ntouch® videophones and ntouch software applications that connect PC, Mac®, and mobile device users to Sorenson Relay. For even more connected communication, Sorenson offers Wavello, which gives people who are Deaf and hearing as well as sign language interpreters the ability to see each other on the same relay call.
For more information, visit sorenson2021es.wpengine.com.
Disclaimer
If you choose Sorenson as your default provider, you can port your existing 10-digit number to Sorenson from another provider or Sorenson can provide you with one for the geographic area where you live or work. If you later change your default provider, you can port your number to that provider. When selecting Sorenson, you must provide to Sorenson the physical address (i.e., the Registered Location) from which you are placing the call, so that Sorenson can properly route any 911 calls you may make. If you move or change your location, you must notify Sorenson immediately. You can update your Registered Location from your Sorenson videophone by calling 800-659-4810 or by visiting www.svrs.com/moving. Sorenson will confirm receipt of your Registered Location information. Emergency calls made via internet-based TRS may not function the same as traditional E911 service. For example, you may not be able to dial 911 if there is an internet-service failure or if you lose electrical power, and your 911 call may not be routed correctly if you have not updated your Registered Location. For more information on the process of obtaining 10-digit numbers and the limitations and risks associated with using Sorenson’s VRS to place a 911 call, please visit Sorenson’s website: sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/legal/. For information on toll-free numbering, please visit www.svrs.com/tollfree.
Press Contact
Ann Bardsley
Sorenson Communications
801-287-9400
[email protected]
Need for human connection knows no language, cultural, or technological boundaries
SALT LAKE CITY – (Sept. 21, 2020) In recognition of National Hispanic Heritage Month, Sorenson Communications, LLC and its affiliate, CaptionCall, reaffirm their commitment to continuing to provide Americans with quality and reliable Spanish communication options for video relay and captioned telephone services, which include mobile applications.
“To best meet our customers’ needs, we offer people the flexibility and confidence to independently place and receive phone calls, including calls to emergency services or loved ones, wherever, whenever, and in what language they prefer,” notes Scott Wood, CEO of Sorenson Communications, the leading provider of communication solutions for people who are Deaf and hard-of-hearing.
The need for these reliable communication services is real. Nearly one million Americans identify as Deaf, and 48 million Americans experience some degree of hearing loss. According to 2019 U.S. Census Bureau numbers, the 60.6 million Hispanic people in the U.S. comprise 18.5 percent of the nation’s total population, and Spanish is the second most commonly spoken language in the U.S.
Sorenson Communications offers people who are Deaf and hearing the option to communicate in real time, each in their natural language – sign language or spoken Spanish or English. In addition, Sorenson Relay users can also designate contacts for whom a Spanish-speaking interpreter is requested. When Sorenson launched its Spanish relay service in 2007, Sorenson was the only company to offer the services with professionally rated Spanish-speaking interpreters.
CaptionCall provides no-cost captioned telephone services in both Spanish and English to anyone who has hearing loss who needs captions to use the phone. Since 2015, CaptionCall has provided Spanish-speaking communication assistants who provide Spanish captions of what callers are saying and today, CaptionCall telephone programs include Spanish language interfaces to help Spanish speakers connect.
Both Sorenson Communications and CaptionCall are funded by the federal government and are available at no cost to those who qualify.
National Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs through Oct. 15, celebrates various Latin American countries’ independence as well as the contributions of Americans who trace their roots to Hispanic and Spanish-speaking nations.
For more information about Sorenson’s Spanish services, visit https://sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/services/espanol/ or call 866-987-7528. For Mexico, call (with no charges) 001-877-510-7655.
To learn more about CaptionCall’s Spanish services, visit https://captioncall.com/telefono or call 877-384-2636.
Sorenson Communications
About Sorenson Communications, LLC
Connecting Life.
Sorenson Communications (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) was founded on the principle that communication and being understood is fundamental to the human experience. Inspired by this belief and the core values of our communities, we develop the most trusted communication offerings, including Sorenson Relay, the highest-quality video interpreting service, and Sorenson Interpreting, which matches qualified sign language interpreters to specific assignment needs. As the largest private employer of Deaf people and sign language interpreters, Sorenson endeavors to provide each customer with an exceptional communication experience.
Sorenson offers innovative, Deaf-specific communication products, such as ntouch® videophones and ntouch software applications that connect PC, Mac®, and mobile device users to Sorenson Relay. For even more connected communication, Sorenson offers Wavello, which gives people who are Deaf and hearing as well as sign language interpreters the ability to see each other on the same relay call.
For more information, visit sorenson2021es.wpengine.com.
CaptionCall, LLC
CaptionCall is the industry leader in the provision of captioned-telephone service that is available at no-cost to anyone who has hearing loss that necessitates the use of captions to use the phone. While hearing loss affects millions of people for many different reasons – age, illness, injury, loud working conditions, and military service – it doesn’t have to limit the quality of their phone conversations. With CaptionCall, it’s easy to communicate confidently with friends, family, and colleagues.
CaptionCall uses advanced voice recognition technology, a transcription service, and human captioning agents to quickly provide written captions of what callers say on a large, easy-to-read screen. CaptionCall also offers a CaptionCall landline phone that works like a traditional telephone – callers simply dial and answer calls, as usual, and speak and listen using a phone handset. CaptionCall users see captions of what callers say.
All eligible customers receive Red Carpet Service that includes professional installation, product training, and friendly customer support, enabling people everywhere to get more from their phone conversations — and more from life.
Press Contact
Ann Bardsley
CaptionCall
801-287-9400
[email protected]
Sorenson Communications, LLC Ofrece Servicios de Comunicación en Español para los Estadounidenses Sordos y con Dificultades Auditivas
La necesidad de contacto humano desconoce las barreras lingüísticas, culturales o tecnológicas
SALT LAKE CITY, Sept. 21, 2020 – En reconocimiento al Mes Nacional de la Herencia Hispana, Sorenson Communications, LLC y su filial, CaptionCall, reafirman su compromiso de continuar ofreciendo a los estadounidenses opciones de comunicaciones en español de calidad y confiables para servicios de retransmisión de video (VRS) y teléfono con subtítulos, que incluyen aplicaciones móviles.
“Para satisfacer mejor las necesidades de nuestros clientes, ofrecemos a las personas la flexibilidad y la confianza para hacer y recibir llamadas telefónicas de forma independiente, incluidas llamadas a servicios de emergencia o a seres queridos, en cualquier momento, en cualquier lugar y en el idioma que prefieran”, dice Scott Wood, director ejecutivo de Sorenson Communications, el proveedor líder de soluciones de comunicaciones para personas sordas y con dificultades auditivas.
La necesidad de estos servicios de comunicación confiables es real. Cerca de un millón de estadounidenses se identifican como sordos, y 48 millones de estadounidenses experimentan algún grado de pérdida de la audición. Según las cifras de 2019 del Buró del Censo de Estados Unidos, los 60.6 millones de hispanos en Estados Unidos representan el 18.5 por ciento de la población total del país, y el español es el segundo idioma más hablado en Estados Unidos.
Sorenson Communications ofrece a las personas sordas y con dificultades auditivas la opción de comunicarse en tiempo real, cada uno en lenguaje natural, inglés o español en lenguaje por señas o hablado. Además, los usuarios de Sorenson Relay también pueden asignar contactos para los que se solicita un intérprete hispanohablante. Sorenson, cuando lanzó sus servicios de retransmisión en español en 2007, era la única empresa en ofrecer servicios con intérpretes hispanohablantes calificados profesionalmente.
CaptionCall ofrece servicios de teléfono con subtítulos sin costo en inglés y español para cualquier persona con pérdida auditiva que necesite subtítulos para usar el teléfono. Desde 2015, CaptionCall ofrece asistentes de comunicación de habla hispana que transcriben subtítulos en español de lo que dicen las personas que llaman, y hoy, los programas de teléfono de CaptionCall incluyen interfaces en español para ayudar a los hispanohablantes a conectarse.
Sorenson Communications, así como CaptionCall son financiados por el gobierno federal y están disponibles sin costo para las personas que califican.
El Mes Nacional de la Herencia Hispana, que se extiende hasta el 15 de octubre, celebra la independencia de varios países latinoamericanos, así como los aportes de estadounidenses cuyos orígenes son de países de habla hispana.
Para más información acerca de los servicios en español de Sorenson, visite https://sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/services/espanol/ o llame al 866-987-7528. Para México, llame (sin costo) 001-877-510-7655.
Para más información acerca de los servicios en español de CaptionCall, visite https://captioncall.com/telefono o llame al 877-384-2636.
Sorenson Communications
Acerca de Sorenson Communications, LLC
Connecting Life. Sorenson Communications (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) está cimentada sobre el principio de que la comunicación y la comprensión son fundamentales para la experiencia humana. Inspirados por esta creencia y los valores fundamentales de nuestras comunidades, desarrollamos las ofertas de comunicación más confiables, incluido Sorenson Relay, el servicio de interpretación de video de la más alta calidad, y Sorenson Interpreting, que coincide intérpretes calificados del lenguaje de señas con las necesidades específicas de la asignación. Como el mayor empleador privado de personas sordas e intérpretes de lenguaje de señas, Sorenson se esfuerza por ofrecer a cada cliente una experiencia de comunicación excepcional.
Sorenson ofrece productos de comunicación innovadores y específicos para sordos, como videoteléfonos ntouch® y aplicaciones de software ntouch que conectan a los usuarios de PC, Mac® y dispositivos móviles con Sorenson Relay. Para una comunicación aún más conectada, Sorenson ofrece Wavello, que ofrece a las personas sordas y con dificultades auditivas, así como a los intérpretes de lenguaje por señas, la facilidad de verse mutuamente en la misma llamada de retransmisión.
Para más información, visite, sorenson2021es.wpengine.com.
CaptionCall, LLC
CaptionCall es el proveedor líder del sector de servicios de teléfono con subtítulos disponible sin costo para cualquier persona con pérdida auditiva que necesite subtítulos para usar el teléfono. Si bien la pérdida auditiva afecta a millones de personas por distintos motivos (edad, enfermedad, lesiones, condiciones de trabajo ruidosas y servicio militar), no tiene que limitar la calidad de sus conversaciones telefónicas. Gracias a CaptionCall, es fácil comunicarse con confianza con amigos, familiares y colegas.
CaptionCall utiliza tecnología avanzada de reconocimiento de voz, un servicio de transcripción, y operadores de subtítulos humanos para transcribir con rapidez subtítulos escritos de lo que dicen las personas que llaman en una pantalla grande y fácil de leer. CaptionCall también ofrece un teléfono de línea fija CaptionCall que funciona como un teléfono tradicional, las personas que llaman simplemente marcan y contestan llamadas, como de costumbre, y hablan y escuchan utilizando un auricular. Los usuarios de CaptionCall ven subtítulos de lo que dicen las personas que llaman.
Todos los clientes elegibles reciben un servicio de calidad superior que incluye instalación profesional, capacitación de productos y atención al cliente amigable, lo que permite que las personas de todo el mundo saquen mayor provecho de las conversaciones telefónicas, y de la vida.
Contacto de Prensa:
Ann Bardsley
CaptionCall
801-287-9400
[email protected]
SALT LAKE CITY – (Aug. 10, 2020) Sorenson Communications, LLC has been named one of America’s Best Employers for Women 2020 by Forbes and the market research firm Statista. Sorenson ranked 112 on the list of employers with more than 1,000 employees in the United States that provide the most progressive work experiences. In addition, Sorenson ranked eighth among companies listed in the IT, internet, software and services industry.
“We are pleased to receive this honor,” says Sorenson Chief Executive Officer Scott Wood. “The recognition really goes to our amazing employees, who enrich our culture every day. Sorenson was founded on the principle that all people have equal rights to communication access. In that same spirit, Sorenson is dedicated to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion which, in turn, empower us to better connect with our various communities.”
Sorenson Chief Legal Officer Cindy Williams adds, “Because we provide services to people who are Deaf and hard-of-hearing, we are sensitive to issues of access, including gender equality.”
Since March 12, Sorenson has hired more than 3,500 employees across all company divisions. Of those new hires, 66 percent were women.
The Forbes list of America’s Best Employers for Women was compiled through an independent survey that spanned all sectors (excluding government) and included 75,000 U.S. employees – 45,000 of whom were women. Companies named did not pay for or apply to appear on the list.
The survey asked all participants about general work-related topics, including atmosphere, working conditions, salaries/wages, and diversity with regard to their own employer. Women were specifically asked to rate their own employers regarding parental leave, family support, flexibility, discrimination, career/representation, and pay equity. In these same categories, participants were also asked to assess their companies’ performance on a five-point psychometric scale as well as given the option to evaluate other employers in their respective industries that stand out, either positively or negatively, with regard to gender issues. In this portion of the survey, only women’s recommendations were considered. Companies were also judged based on the share of women in executive management or board positions. The 300 companies receiving the highest overall scores were recognized as America’s Best Employers for Women 2020.
For more information about the survey, visit https://www.forbes.com/best-employers-women/#42b6c8ef7de9. For more information about open positions at Sorenson, visit https://sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/about/joinus/.
About Sorenson Communications, LLC
Connecting Life. Sorenson Communications (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) was founded on the principle that communication and being understood is fundamental to the human experience. Inspired by this belief and the core values of our communities, we develop the most trusted communication offerings, including Sorenson Relay, the highest-quality video interpreting service, and Sorenson Interpreting, which matches qualified sign language interpreters to specific assignment needs. As the largest private employer of Deaf people and sign language interpreters, Sorenson endeavors to provide each customer with an exceptional communication experience.
Sorenson offers innovative, Deaf-specific communication products, such as ntouch® videophones and ntouch software applications that connect PC, Mac®, and mobile device users to Sorenson Relay. For even more connected communication, Sorenson offers Wavello, which gives people who are Deaf and hearing as well as sign language interpreters the ability to see each other on the same relay call.
For more information, visit sorenson2021es.wpengine.com.
Disclaimer
If you choose Sorenson as your default provider, you can port your existing 10-digit number to Sorenson from another provider or Sorenson can provide you with one for the geographic area where you live or work. If you later change your default provider, you can port your number to that provider. When selecting Sorenson, you must provide to Sorenson the physical address (i.e., the Registered Location) from which you are placing the call, so that Sorenson can properly route any 911 calls you may make. If you move or change your location, you must notify Sorenson immediately. You can update your Registered Location from your Sorenson videophone by calling 800-659-4810 or by visiting www.svrs.com/moving. Sorenson will confirm receipt of your Registered Location information. Emergency calls made via internet-based TRS may not function the same as traditional E911 service. For example, you may not be able to dial 911 if there is an internet-service failure or if you lose electrical power, and your 911 call may not be routed correctly if you have not updated your Registered Location. For more information on the process of obtaining 10-digit numbers and the limitations and risks associated with using Sorenson’s VRS to place a 911 call, please visit Sorenson’s website: sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/legal/. For information on toll-free numbering, please visit www.svrs.com/tollfree.
Press Contact
Ann Bardsley
Sorenson Communications
801-287-9400
[email protected]
SALT LAKE CITY – (May 12, 2020) Today, Sorenson Communications announced the availability of 988 dialing to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which provides 24/7 emotional support for people in emotional distress or a suicidal crisis.
Sorenson is responding to the directive of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to provide direct-dialing 988 access to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. When Deaf callers dial 988 on a Sorenson ntouch® device, they will get confidential access to the Lifeline through Sorenson Relay interpreters. The 988 number is not yet available on a nationwide basis and is available now only for Sorenson customers.
As with all calls processed through Sorenson Communications, the FCC mandates complete confidentiality of call content. In addition, Sorenson Relay interpreters are bound by a Code of Professional Conduct, which clearly states that any information in an interpreted setting will be kept strictly confidential.
“Sorenson always supports Deaf communication access, but especially in critical times of need or crisis,” notes Sorenson CEO Scott Wood. “We are here to serve customers 24/7 by supporting access to the lifeline and to assist lifeline staff in providing support and awareness.”
The 988 number is now added to a host of three-digit, community resource numbers that can be reached through Sorenson ntouch devices. “We want to support our community by providing easy access to 988 and to interpreters,” says Sorenson Vice President of Marketing Lance Pickett. “We are also working to raise awareness about the availability of this valuable resource.”
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can also be accessed by calling 1-800-273-8255. For more information about the Lifeline, visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Sorenson Communications, LLC
Sorenson Communications, LLC (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) Connects Life. Sorenson was founded on the principle that communication and being understood is fundamental to the human experience. Inspired by this belief and the core values of our communities, we develop the most trusted communication offerings, including Sorenson Relay, the highest-quality video interpreting service, and Sorenson Interpreting, which matches qualified sign language interpreters to specific in-person or over-video assignment needs. As the largest private employer of Deaf people and sign language interpreters, Sorenson endeavors to provide each customer with an exceptional communication experience.
Sorenson offers innovative, Deaf-specific communication products, such as ntouch® videophones and ntouch software applications that connect PC, Mac®, and mobile device users to Sorenson Relay. For more information, visit sorenson2021es.wpengine.com.
Press Contact
Ann Bardsley
Sorenson Communications
801-287-9400
[email protected]
SALT LAKE CITY – (April 14, 2020) Today, Sorenson Communications announced Sorenson Wavello, a revolutionary new feature that gives Deaf, hearing people, and sign language interpreters the ability to see each other as they converse during video relay calls.
For Deaf users, this feature is already built into Sorenson’s ntouch suite of products. Hearing callers will be able to download the Wavello app, which is available at no cost for iOS and Android platforms through the App Store or Google Play. Once hearing callers download the app and register their phone number, they can receive video conference call requests from Deaf people with whom they are speaking on a Sorenson Relay call.
“Wavello is one more way we connect conversations – really connect life – for our customers,” says Scott Wood, CEO of Sorenson Communications. “Communication and being understood is fundamental to the human experience. That belief inspires us to develop the most innovative, inclusive, and functionally-equivalent products and services, which now include Wavello.”
Early Deaf and hearing Wavello testers are calling the new technology a “game changer” – for the first time, people who are Deaf and hearing can see true emotions, authentic responses – everything needed for true communication on a relay call.
Dr. David Geeslin, CEO and superintendent for Indiana School for the Deaf and a Deaf Wavello tester, says, “Deaf and hearing parents need Wavello to help facilitate communication with their children through language. Deaf people rely on facial expressions to determine meaning, so there are often nuances and portions of the language not captured by the sign language interpreter. With Wavello, both callers can see each other’s facial expressions – so there’s additional clarity in communication.”
Bruce Wagner, who can hear and is the father of two adult Deaf children, a Deaf daughter-in-law, and hearing grandchildren, says, “I’ve been waiting 36 years for this!” Now retired and living in Florida, he says communication with his family is more important than ever. “I don’t know sign language, so when I first used Wavello, my immediate reaction was ‘I can communicate directly with my son, who is Deaf. It was a great feeling!’”
Lance Pickett, Sorenson Vice President of Marketing and a member of the Deaf community, says, “We are passionate about creating solutions that build deeper and more meaningful relationships. Our latest innovation accomplishes this! We’re excited to introduce Wavello – we think it’s the next revolution in Video Relay Service.”
With Sorenson Relay and the introduction of the Sorenson VP-100® videophone in 2003, Sorenson revolutionized communication between Deaf and hearing callers, giving them the option to converse in real time – anytime, anywhere – each in their natural language, American Sign Language (ASL) or spoken English or Spanish. Since then, Sorenson has continued to re-imagine communication by introducing a host of features as well as three next-generation videophones, each specifically designed by and for people who are Deaf.
For more information about Wavello, visit sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/GetWavello.
About Sorenson Communications, LLC
Connecting Life. Sorenson Communications (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) was founded on the principle that communication and being understood is fundamental to the human experience. Inspired by this belief and the core values of our communities, we develop the most trusted communication offerings, including Sorenson Relay, the highest-quality video interpreting service, and Sorenson Interpreting, which matches qualified sign language interpreters to specific assignment needs. As the largest employer of sign language interpreters, Sorenson endeavors to provide each person with an exceptional communication experience.
Sorenson offers innovative, Deaf-specific communication products, such as ntouch® videophones and ntouch software applications that connect PC, Mac®, and mobile device users to Sorenson Relay. For more information, visit sorenson2021es.wpengine.com.
Press Contact
Ann Bardsley
Sorenson Communications
801-287-9400
[email protected]
SALT LAKE CITY – (Jan. 23, 2020) Forbes and the market research firm Statista has recognized Sorenson Communications, LLC as one of the Best Employers for Diversity 2020 in the United States. Sorenson ranked number 249 on the list of 500 employers – employers that received the most recommendations as well as those that boast the most diverse boards, executive ranks, and the most proactive diversity and inclusion initiatives. The Best Employers for Diversity 2020 were chosen based on an independent survey from a representative sample of 60,000 employees working for companies employing at least 1,000 people in their U.S. operations. The survey did not allow self recommendations – and those who recommended themselves were identified and removed. Respondents, who answered anonymously via online access panels between Oct. 7 and Nov. 8, 2019, were asked questions regarding the topics of age, gender equality, ethnicity, disability, LGBTQA+, and general diversity about their own employer.
“Sorenson is pleased with this recognition, and we are committed to promoting equality and diversity in our workplace,” says Sorenson Chief Executive Officer Scott Wood. “Because we work with Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities, we are especially sensitive to issues of equal access and inclusion.”
Brian Breinholt, Sorenson Chief Human Resource Officer, adds, “Engaging and supporting a diverse workforce strengthens our organization and reinforces a rich culture of people who better relate to and serve our diverse communities.”
The ranking, the third annual list, is based on four criteria:
For more information about the survey, visit https://www.forbes.com/best-employers-diversity/#756206ef9b9e. For more information about open positions at Sorenson, visit https://sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/about/joinus/.
About Sorenson Communications, LLC
Connecting Life. Sorenson Communications (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) was founded on the principle that communication and being understood is fundamental to the human experience. Inspired by this belief and the core values of our communities, we develop the most trusted communication offerings, including Sorenson Relay, the highest-quality video interpreting service, and Sorenson Interpreting, which matches qualified sign language interpreters to specific assignment needs. As the largest private employer of Deaf people and sign language interpreters, Sorenson endeavors to provide each customer with an exceptional communication experience. Sorenson offers innovative, Deaf-specific communication products, such as ntouch® videophones and ntouch software applications that connect PC, Mac®, and mobile device users to Sorenson Relay. For more information, visit sorenson2021es.wpengine.com.
Disclaimer
If you choose Sorenson as your default provider, you can port your existing 10-digit number to Sorenson from another provider or Sorenson can provide you with one for the geographic area where you live or work. If you later change your default provider, you can port your number to that provider. When selecting Sorenson, you must provide to Sorenson the physical address (i.e., the Registered Location) from which you are placing the call, so that Sorenson can properly route any 911 calls you may make. If you move or change your location, you must notify Sorenson immediately. You can update your Registered Location from your Sorenson videophone by calling 800-659-4810 or by visiting www.svrs.com/moving. Sorenson will confirm receipt of your Registered Location information. Emergency calls made via internet-based TRS may not function the same as traditional E911 service. For example, you may not be able to dial 911 if there is an internet-service failure or if you lose electrical power, and your 911 call may not be routed correctly if you have not updated your Registered Location. For more information on the process of obtaining 10-digit numbers and the limitations and risks associated with using Sorenson’s VRS to place a 911 call, please visit Sorenson’s website: sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/legal/. For information on toll-free numbering, please visit www.svrs.com/tollfree.
Press Contact Ann BardsleySorenson Communications 801-287-9400 [email protected]
SALT LAKE CITY – (Jan. 15, 2020) Sorenson Communications, LLC is committed to providing education and improving the quality of access to interpreting services in communities and through video relay. In 2019, Sorenson’s Interpreter Education and Professional Development (IEPD) Department provided more than 25,000 hours of instruction to more than 6,000 American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters. Of this total,14,490 hours were eligible for continuing education units (CEUs), which are required to maintain professional credentialing.
Programming was sponsored by IEPD instructors who provided educational programming on over 85 topics – more than double what was offered in 2018. Sorenson interpreters were able to participate in training topics related to call navigation and handling, interpreting skills, self-care, impacts of power and privilege in their work, linguistics and ASL, as well as specialized workshops for trilingual interpreters. Interpreters could choose from nearly 800 educational webinars, small group language or interpreting mentoring, and eLearning opportunities. Educational offerings met a variety of skill needs and learning styles while also responding to the training needs requested by interpreters and consumers.
Sorenson’s education focus is both internal and community-based. Sorenson partners with more than 80 Interpreter Education Programs that introduce interpreting students to a professional work environment and the opportunity to discuss the work of interpreting with professionals prior to graduation.
Sorenson supported local communities by providing five community workshops held in the United States and donated more than $1,700 in CEU workshop registration fees to local Deaf and interpreting community organizations.
More than100 heritage language users – bilingual participants raised with one or more signing Deaf parents, also known as Codas – –participated in programs that prepared them to become community or Video Relay interpreters.
Sorenson continues its commitment to Deaf interpreters and, in 2019, sponsored a Deaf Interpreter Academy, which raises awareness of best practices in Deaf interpreter teaming and created opportunities to foster Deaf interpreter development throughout North America. In 2019, 32 Deaf interpreters successfully graduated from the program.
Stephanie Criner, executive director of Sorenson’s IEPD team, says, “Sorenson’s commitment to connecting lives through training and educating interpreters is our passion for the new decade.”
Sorenson Communications CEO Scott Wood adds, “We continue to be the leader in providing our interpreters educational opportunities so they can provide top-quality services to our relay and community consumers.”
About Sorenson Communications, LLC
Connecting Life. Sorenson Communications (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) was founded on the principle that communication and being understood is fundamental to the human experience. Inspired by this belief and the core values of our communities, we develop the most trusted communication offerings, including Sorenson Relay, the highest-quality video interpreting service, and Sorenson Interpreting, which matches qualified sign language interpreters to specific assignment needs. As the largest private employer of Deaf people and sign language interpreters, Sorenson endeavors to provide each customer with an exceptional communication experience.
Sorenson offers innovative, Deaf-specific communication products, such as ntouch® videophones and ntouch software applications that connect PC, Mac®, and mobile device users to Sorenson Relay. For more information, visit sorenson2021es.wpengine.com.
Disclaimer
If you choose Sorenson as your default provider, you can port your existing 10-digit number to Sorenson from another provider or Sorenson can provide you with one for the geographic area where you live or work. If you later change your default provider, you can port your number to that provider. When selecting Sorenson, you must provide to Sorenson the physical address (i.e., the Registered Location) from which you are placing the call, so that Sorenson can properly route any 911 calls you may make. If you move or change your location, you must notify Sorenson immediately. You can update your Registered Location from your Sorenson videophone by calling 800-659-4810 or by visiting www.svrs.com/moving. Sorenson will confirm receipt of your Registered Location information. Emergency calls made via internet-based TRS may not function the same as traditional E911 service. For example, you may not be able to dial 911 if there is an internet-service failure or if you lose electrical power, and your 911 call may not be routed correctly if you have not updated your Registered Location. For more information on the process of obtaining 10-digit numbers and the limitations and risks associated with using Sorenson’s VRS to place a 911 call, please visit Sorenson’s website: sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/disclaimer. For information on toll-free numbering, please visit www.svrs.com/tollfree.
Press Contact
Ann Bardsley
Sorenson Communications
801-287-940
[email protected]
SALT LAKE CITY – (Dec. 20, 2019 Today, Video Relay Service (VRS) leader Sorenson Communications, LLC unveiled a new brand, one that includes an open, vibrant blue “S” logo, symbolic of an expanded company mindset and direction.
“Over the past 16 years, Sorenson revolutionized communication between Deaf and hearing people,” notes CEO Scott Wood. “Our communities equate Sorenson with quality and technological innovation – and they immediately recognize our distinct brand, symbolized by the bold yellow-and-black S-bug brand symbol we used.
“But Sorenson has evolved,” Wood says. “We are no longer simply a video relay company. We now offer services and technologies that address a variety of interpreting and communication needs. Our new direction calls for a new brand.”
Lance Pickett, Sorenson vice president of marketing, concurs. “Through Sorenson services and technologies, Deaf and hearing people are connected and understood. Sorenson interprets more conversations than any other provider in the United States. In this trusted position, we want to maintain the quality our customers expect. Our new brand aligns more with who we are and the direction we are going. The new Sorenson brand is not just a new logo or a revised look and feel – it’s a holistic philosophy that reflects every aspect of our business and culture.”
This week, new branding appeared on Sorenson’s website and social media. The full transition of the brand will take place in coming months and will be incorporated in apparel and event materials. Sorenson’s former logo is now retired, although, in a nod to Sorenson’s past in pioneering innovation, yellow is a secondary color in the new brand palette.
Sorenson leverages its extensive experience, best-in-class technology, robust infrastructure, and the passion of thousands of American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters who make a difference every day to deliver the highest-quality communication experience for both Deaf and hearing people. This combined effort is to ensure every reaction and intended communication is understood.
Sorenson Relay connects Deaf and hearing people in real time and provides the option for each to communicate in their preferred language – ASL or spoken English or Spanish. For situations that do not meet the requirements of relay calling, Sorenson Interpreting provides onsite interpreting and Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) – on demand interpreting by a remote interpreter for two people who are in the same room.
For more information about Sorenson services and technology, visit sorenson2021es.wpengine.com.
About Sorenson Communications, LLC
Connecting Life. Sorenson Communications (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) was founded on the principle that communication and being understood is fundamental to the human experience. Inspired by this belief and the core values of our communities, we develop the most trusted communication offerings, including Sorenson Relay, the highest-quality video interpreting service, and Sorenson Interpreting, which matches qualified sign language interpreters to specific assignment needs. As the largest private employer of Deaf people and sign language interpreters, Sorenson endeavors to provide each customer with an exceptional communication experience.
Sorenson offers innovative, Deaf-specific communication products, such as ntouch® videophones and ntouch software applications that connect PC, Mac®, and mobile device users to Sorenson Relay. For more information, visit sorenson2021es.wpengine.com.
Disclaimer
If you choose Sorenson as your default provider, you can port your existing 10-digit number to Sorenson from another provider or Sorenson can provide you with one for the geographic area where you live or work. If you later change your default provider, you can port your number to that provider. When selecting Sorenson, you must provide to Sorenson the physical address (i.e., the Registered Location) from which you are placing the call, so that Sorenson can properly route any 911 calls you may make. If you move or change your location, you must notify Sorenson immediately. You can update your Registered Location from your Sorenson videophone by calling 800-659-4810 or by visiting www.svrs.com/moving. Sorenson will confirm receipt of your Registered Location information. Emergency calls made via internet-based TRS may not function the same as traditional E911 service. For example, you may not be able to dial 911 if there is an internet-service failure or if you lose electrical power, and your 911 call may not be routed correctly if you have not updated your Registered Location. For more information on the process of obtaining 10-digit numbers and the limitations and risks associated with using Sorenson’s VRS to place a 911 call, please visit Sorenson’s website: sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/legal. For information on toll-free numbering, please visit www.svrs.com/tollfree.
Press Contact
Ann Bardsley
Sorenson Communications
801-287-9400
[email protected]
SALT LAKE CITY – (Nov. 5, 2019) As part of an ongoing commitment to modernize the mobile communication experience for Deaf people, Sorenson Communications announced an update to its ntouch® app for the AndroidTM operating system.
“We are pleased to offer our latest technology to Android users in the Deaf community. The update to the ntouch user interface (UI) will offer an improved customer experience, with new theme and color options to make mobile Video Relay Service (VRS) more accessible and enjoyable for all users, including those with low vision,” says Scott Wood, CEO of Sorenson Communications.
Customers can get the new ntouch software – version 9.0 – by downloading it from the Google Play Store.
“Mobile communication is essential in today’s world,” notes Isaac Roach, vice president of engineering for Sorenson Communications, the leading provider of Video Relay Service (VRS) for Deaf people who use sign language to communicate. “This update will bring the ntouch app in line with current Android Material Design standards, and fulfill our mission of providing our customers with best-in-class service on any device.”
Additional changes to the ntouch app’s UI include:
Updated UI elements provide a more consistent interface, decrease the number of buttons on a screen, and reduce the number of taps needed to perform an action.
For more information about the new updated ntouch features, visit www.svrs.com or contact customer service at 801-386-8500.
Press Contact
Ann Bardsley
Sorenson Communications
801-287-9400
[email protected]
About Sorenson Communications, LLC
Sorenson Communications, LLC (www.sorensonvrs.com) connects people by delivering the world’s most trusted services, which include Sorenson Video Relay Service (VRS®), the highest-quality video interpreting service, and Sorenson Community Interpreting Services (SCIS), which matches qualified sign language interpreters to specific assignment needs and situations to provide an unparalleled interpreting experience. As the largest private employer of sign language interpreters, Sorenson has access to the most experienced, skilled, and diverse interpreter base in the industry. Sorenson interpreters pass a rigorous skills assessment test, and are provided with myriad resources for interpreter development, training, and advocacy.
Sorenson’s innovative products include the ntouch® VP and the ntouch VP2 videophones, designed especially for use by Deaf individuals; ntouch PC, software that connects users to SVRS by using a PC and webcam; ntouch for Mac®, software that connects users to SVRS by using an Apple® computer; and ntouch Mobile, an application empowering SVRS communication via tablet and mobile devices. Sorenson is the leading provider of Video Relay Service.
Disclaimer
If you choose Sorenson as your default provider, you can port your existing 10-digit number to Sorenson from another provider or Sorenson can provide you with one for the geographic area where you live or work. If you later change your default provider, you can port your number to that provider. When selecting Sorenson, you must provide to Sorenson the physical address (i.e., the Registered Location) from which you are placing the call, so that Sorenson can properly route any 911 calls you may make. If you move or change your location, you must notify Sorenson immediately. You can update your Registered Location from your Sorenson videophone by calling 800-659-4810 or by visiting www.svrs.com/moving. Sorenson will confirm receipt of your Registered Location information. Emergency calls made via internet-based TRS may not function the same as traditional E911 service. For example, you may not be able to dial 911 if there is an internet-service failure or if you lose electrical power, and your 911 call may not be routed correctly if you have not updated your Registered Location. For more information on the process of obtaining 10-digit numbers and the limitations and risks associated with using Sorenson’s VRS to place a 911 call, please visit Sorenson’s website: sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/disclaimer. For information on toll-free numbering, please visit www.svrs.com/tollfree.