Debra Russell

Credentials

Honours

Affiliations

As a professional, Debra “goes that extra mile” in every new project she tackles. Below are some of the recognitions she’s achieved over the years for her exemplary efforts:  

• World Federation of the Deaf First Class International Solidarity Merit Award (2019)
  
  
• Honorary President, World Association of Sign Language Interpreters (2019)
  
  
• Post-Doctoral Fellowship, David Peikoff Chair of Deaf Studies, University of Alberta (2002–2004)

• Phyllis Joynt Mentorship Award, in recognition of national mentorship abilities, AVLIC (2004)

• R. W. Letourneau Award, Association of Sign Language Interpreters of Southern Alberta (2000)

• Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council Doctoral Fellowship, University of Alberta (1997–2000) 

• Killam Memorial Doctoral Scholarship, University of Alberta (1998)

• Dean's Special Doctoral Scholarship, University of Calgary (1996–1997)

• ACRID Lifetime Membership Award, for outstanding service to the profession (1995)
  
  
• Edward C. Bealer Award of Merit, for outstanding contributions to the profession, AVLIC (1992)

---

“Dr. Russell's love of learning and confidence in her students inspired me to move beyond my comfort zone to learn more deeply and apply my knowledge to my practice. Her positive approach to teaching, by bringing a sense that we were in this learning endeavor together, all the while challenging me to understand and apply what I was learning, brought each lesson to life.”

Amanda Mueller, Grad Student, Interpreting Pedagogy Program, Northeastern University, Boston, MA