“Many learn-to-sign videos available on the internet are too instructional, too formal, and not entertaining to enable ASL learners to relax. Yours are entertaining, thematic, accessible, and most of all, CUTE!” ASL Nook Viewer
“As a person who started life without ASL or a visual language, Sheena is a staunch advocate for bilingual pedagogies. Also importantly is Sheena’s passion for the promotion of Deaf role models, culture and community.” Dr. Roz Rosen
“This was the class I learned the most this semester. I had an amazing time and learned much more that I expected. This class with Sheena caused me to minor in ASL because of everything I was taught. She not only taught us about her language, but also her world.” ASL Student, University of Texas
“The Pearls was truly special. We were sitting together discussing that special feeling. Oh, Jules said it best, “Tonight I am proud to be a Deaf woman. That sums up tonight.” Karen Putz, Writer
“I loved the characters in “Shay & Ivy: Beyond the Kingdom.” The book isn’t just another princess story, it shows that us girls can be anything we want to be when we grow up. We are the shining stars, not only in the kingdom but beyond.” Melody Stein, Restaurant Owner
“We were a small crew working with the family, and most of us have had very limited experiences working with the Deaf, and that was a unique opportunity and challenge for us. Sheena and Manny could not have made it easier or more enlightening for us — they were very open, great communicators, willing collaborators, and extraordinarily helpful to us throughout the process. The final piece “Disney: Unforgettable Stories” was wildly popular and shared and watched many millions of times — a testament to how likable this family is, and how touching their experience was.” Lauren Cynkar, Executive Producer
“Your family was my Deaf and Hard of Hearing elementary students’ first exposure to a Deaf family. I know many hearing people who have watched your videos. You are breaking stereotypes.” ASL Nook Viewer
“Sheena is the most indispensable colleague with an eagle eye on details and schedules. She is the person you will want to be in your foxhole – super reliable, charismatic, and trustworthy.” David G. Simmons, Co-Worker
“I learned more in this class from a professor that never “spoke” to me than I have in the majority of classes I’ve taken at UT from instructors that spoke to me a lot. All in all I would say that this class has had a lasting effect on me, in many ways. The lessons on individual differences and inclusion as well as civil responsibility will stick with me throughout my career.” ASL Student, University of Texas
“Even though I considered myself fairly successful, being here at The Pearls event remind me that there is still more to achieve. So, it was an inspiration for me.” Claudia Gordon, Lawyer
“An engaging, intelligent book for children and their families, one that neither avoids nor makes a point of the characters’ deafness, but instead simply incorporates it subtly into the appealing illustrations.” Andrew Solomon, Author
“You and your beautiful family are a huge part of ASL being the norm in this house. Thank you for all you have blessed us and for being a shiny example.” ASL Nook Viewer
“It is evident to me that whatever Sheena does, or touches, turns to gold.” Lauren Maucere, Teacher
“Up to this point in my life, I haven’t gotten many opportunities to communicate with the Deaf — until I met a spirited Austin mother who recently created a viral video. Her message is simple but striking…and one I’m thankful I got to convey.” Jay Wallis, KVUE ABC Reporter
“ASL Nook is invaluable. I can’t even describe how much our city’s parents, kids, and classrooms (all kinds: deaf, hearing, CODA) find delight and language in your site.” ASL Nook Viewer