A specialized device is bridging the gap between deaf and hard of hearing (D/HH) and the hearing world. Students, faculty and staff now have access to video phones to help them communicate.

Sorenson Video Relay Services allows D/HH individuals to make and receive phone calls using American Sign Language (ASL). Through a high-speed internet connection and a built-in camera, users can sign directly to a live interpreter, who then voices the message to the hearing person on the other end of the call—whether it’s a friend, a business, or a staff member at MATC. The interpreter also signs the hearing person’s response back to the deaf user in real time.

In addition to relay calls, Sorenson video phones also support point-to-point communication, allowing deaf individuals to communicate directly with each other in ASL, without needing an interpreter.

At MATC, the video phone system is available in designated areas and supported by our Student Accommodations Services in C219 at the Downtown Campus. It is located in the lobby near Public Safety at the Oak Creek Campus. This service empowers deaf and hard of hearing students and staff to fully engage in their academic, social, and professional lives—ensuring that everyone has equal access to communication on campus.