Legacies

In honor of our highly esteemed member of the National Asian Deaf Congress Executive Board and fellow colleague, Dr. Chough, who was fondly known as “SKC,” passed away peacefully on March 30, a few short days after NADC’s 25th anniversary. NADC deeply mourns the loss of our highly respected Senior Board Member. We ask you to come together as a resilient Asian Deaf Community in remembrance of Dr. Chough.

Dr. Chough’s numerous achievements and contributions as an activist and educator for the Asian Deaf Community in the United States of America are deeply appreciated. We are truly fortunate to have shared and learned much from Dr. Chough’s contributions and leadership throughout the years.

There are not enough words to adequately describe Dr. Chough’s work, advocacy, and encouragement to all of us. The absence of Dr. Chough’s intelligence and witty humor will be deeply missed. In honor of Dr. Chough, our hearts and numerous kowtow bows are extended in salute to our distinguished colleague, friend, mentor, advisor, and fellow public ambassador of goodwill. We bid fond farewells in reverence to our legendary Dr. Chough.

Dr. Steven K. Chough (1931 – 2022)

Honoring the Legacy of Janice Nishimura

The National Asian Deaf Congress (NADC) is deeply saddened by the passing of Jan Nishimura, who was our exceptional friend, colleague, and mentor. It is hard to believe that she had spent almost 15 years interpreting at NADC conferences in 1994, 1997, 2000, 2004, 2007, and 2011. Throughout her time at NADC, she was involved in various activities, including general meetings, workshops, and committees, and she supported the event arrangement process. The many ways she set a trail for others were truly inspiring. She leaves behind a large legacy for the Asian Deaf community, which will be felt for generations to come. Her life was also dedicated to improving the interpreting profession, especially for AAPI interpreters, as a colleague, mentor, and role model. She will be greatly missed, and we extend our condolences to Jan’s family and friends.

“I am One with the Force, and the Force is with me.”

Jan had a genuine interest in understanding the people around her, which is reflected in her ability to connect with them. She could read between the lines and pick up on the subtleties of a conversation, which allowed her to offer meaningful advice and guidance. Her words carried weight and were often thought-provoking and inspiring.

Many people called her “The World: According to Jan.” She had a unique perspective on life that resonated with many, and her words changed how people viewed the world.

Thank you, Jan, for her dedicated efforts to bring together the AAPI interpreting and Deaf community, and thank you again for the time and effort she devotes to NADC.

Jan Nishimura (1952 – 2022)

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