Laurie Shaffer

Excellence in Teaching, 2024

College of Professional Studies

Since joining UNH Manchester’s faculty in 2017, Laurie Shaffer has been an invaluable leader in the American Sign Language/English interpreting program.

An active practitioner of ASL/English interpreting for nearly three decades, Laurie is not only passionate about the subject she teaches, but also about her students and their journeys. Colleagues and students alike recognize how invested she is in her students’ success both inside and outside the classroom. Student evaluations consistently cite her as supportive, knowledgeable and understanding, and they often highlight her engaging teaching style.

A true advocate for experiential learning, Laurie’s students say her focus on hands-on work with the Deaf community is what inspires them to pursue impactful careers in the vital interpreting field. She cares deeply about interpreting, but also about the students she mentors and the people she works with. Colleagues praise her compassion and kindness, acknowledging her classroom as a place that fosters a sense of community. Laurie’s ability to create meaningful connections between students and the Deaf community not only enriches their educational experience but also instills in them a profound sense of responsibility and purpose in their future roles as interpreters.

Laurie’s steadfast dedication to her students and her passion for American Sign Language interpreting make her a transformative educator who inspires future leaders in the field. It is with great pride that we celebrate her exceptional contributions to UNH Manchester with the 2024 Excellence in Teaching Award.