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Margarita Cooley
Facilitating communication as a Trilingual Interpreter
Professional Background
Margarita Cooley is a seasoned professional known for her extensive experience in rehabilitation counseling, language interpretation, and community mental health services. With a passion for helping others, Margarita has made valuable contributions to the field by advocating for individuals with disabilities and enhancing communication through multilingual interpretation.
Beginning her career as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor at the Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID/ACCES), Margarita laid the foundation for her work by providing essential support services aimed at empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve greater independence and integration in the workforce. This role allowed her to develop a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the importance of accessible services.
Later on, Margarita took her skills to the educational sector, serving as an Education & Academic Administrator in an independent setting. Her role involved not only administrative duties but also liaising with various stakeholders to ensure effective communication and support for students with diverse needs. This experience further solidified her commitment to fostering inclusive environments in educational institutions.
Margarita’s passion for language and communication led her to establish herself as a trilingual video interpreter, proficient in English, Sign Language, and Spanish. Her work at Sorenson Communications showcased her unique ability to bridge communication gaps, ensuring that individuals from different linguistic backgrounds could connect and receive the services they need. In addition to her interpretation work, she has also freelanced as an interpreter, further demonstrating her versatility and dedication to her craft.
Not one to sit back, Margarita has actively contributed to the education of families through the founding of 'Sign Language for Parents & Babies,' where she took on the dual role of instructor and founder. This initiative emphasizes the importance of early language acquisition and communication, particularly for parents in the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Through this program, she has positively impacted families' lives by helping them communicate effectively from a young age.
To round off her impressive career, Margarita has lent her expertise to various institutions as a consultant, including notable organizations such as Brandeis University and the University of Michigan. Her consulting roles have allowed her to influence positive change, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity across various programs and systems.
Education and Achievements
Margarita Cooley's educational background is as impressive as her professional career. She earned her Master of Arts degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Gallaudet University, a prestigious institution that specializes in the education of deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. This degree has equipped her with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to provide effective counseling and support for individuals facing disabilities.
Prior to her Master’s degree, Margarita obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Human Services with a focus on Community Mental Health from the State University of New York at Buffalo. This foundational degree has provided her with a thorough understanding of community resources and best practices in mental health, enabling her to offer comprehensive services to her clients.
Through her studies and various professional roles, Margaritas has garnered significant knowledge in rehabilitation counseling, interpreting, and community engagement, allowing her to support individuals effectively and drive positive change in their lives.
Achievements
Margarita Cooley is a prominent figure in the fields of rehabilitation counseling and language interpretation. Her remarkable journey has been defined by her numerous achievements and contributions to both her community and her profession.
- Founder of Sign Language for Parents & Babies: By developing this program, Margarita has significantly advanced communication access for families with deaf and hard-of-hearing infants, fostering early language skills and bonding.
- Consultant at Renowned Universities: Her consultancy roles at Brandeis University and the University of Michigan have allowed her to implement inclusive practices and policies that promote accessibility and understanding in academia.
- Trilingual Interpretation Expertise: Margarita's ability to interpret in English, Spanish, and Sign Language makes her a vital resource in various settings. Her work ensures that diverse populations receive equitable access to services and information.
- Dedicated Counselor for Individuals with Disabilities: Through her work with VESID/ACCES and other organizations, Margarita has dedicated her career to empowering individuals with disabilities by ensuring they have access to the resources needed for success in personal, educational, and professional settings.
