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Family Learning Vacation: Our Story
Family Learning Vacation: Our Story
In the summer of 2024, Candace Jones presented a full week of family-centered workshops at Holley Family Village in Brooklyn, Michigan. During that time, meaningful conversations unfolded with staff and families who were deeply moved by the spirit of connection, learning, and joy that families experienced together.
As Candace shared that the Family Learning Vacation (FLV) concept originally stemmed from Gallaudet University, the Holley Family Village team felt inspired to imagine what a similar summer experience could look like for local families with Deaf and Hard of Hearing children across Michigan. The idea sparked excitement, possibility, and hope.
That moment planted a seed.
Witnessing the power of families learning, growing, and building community together reignited Candace’s long-held vision: to bring FLV at Gallaudet back to life. Rooted in language access, cultural affirmation, and family empowerment, FLV is more than a program—it is a space where families come together to learn, connect, and thrive.
Together, we continue this journey—honoring the past, inspired by community, and building a future where Deaf and Hard of Hearing children and their families are fully supported.
Community Partnerships that Brought FLV to Life
Community Partnerships that Brought FLV to Life
FLV was envisioned through collaboration with Gallaudet's Nuestra Casa and the Center for Black Deaf Studies, following an invitation from the Heritage Sign Languages Center under the Office of the Chief Bilingual Officer.
This early partnership centered on uplifting underrepresented Black and Brown families with Deaf and hard of hearing children by prioritizing early language access, cultural identity affirmation, and community-rooted resources. As FLV has grown, the same foundation of equity and belonging now extends outward, welcoming families of all backgrounds and lived experiences. FLV remains grounded in its original purpose while embracing a broader, diverse community of families learning, connecting, and thriving together.
FLV Planning team
FLV Planning team
Evon Black, Associate Director, Center for Black Deaf Studies
Candace Jones, FLV Program Lead and School of Language, Education, and Culture Educator
Norma Morán, Associate Director, Nuestra Casa
Tiffanee Barnes, Program Manager, Office of the Provost
Nicole Bradford, Executive Assistant, Office of the Provost
Dr. Paige Franklin, Director of Operations and Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Education
Neerja Vasishta, Academic Affairs Communications Specialist and News Editor
FLV Staff
FLV Staff
Joseline Garcia, FLV Childcare Coordinator
Joseline Garcia
Joseline Garcia
Joseline Garcia is excited to return as the Child Care Coordinator for FLV this summer. With nearly 20 years of experience working with children, she is passionate about creating a safe, fun, and supportive environment where children can learn and play. She is deeply committed to improving access to childcare for families in the ASL community and ensuring that every child has a positive, welcoming experience during the program.
Latrina Harris-Lewis, FLV Family Activity Coordinator
Latrina Harris-Lewis
Latrina Harris-Lewis
Latrina Harris-Lewis is a Family Services Specialist with the Arizona Commission for the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing (ACDHH). With over 20 years as a Deaf educator and teacher leader, she advocates for equitable systems while supporting Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and DeafPlus children and their families in building strong foundations for communication and academic success. As a proud Deaf mother of a young adult CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) daughter and a lifelong bilingual user of ASL and written English, Latrina brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work. She is committed to strengthening family leadership, early language development, and meaningful community connection.
Dr. Mary Perrodin-Singh, FLV Youth Coordinator
Dr. Mary Perrodin-Singh
Dr. Mary Perrodin-Singh
Dr. Mary Perrodin-Singh is the Interim Assistant Dean of Graduate Education at Gallaudet University with over 20 years of impact in education. She has advanced equity and excellence for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and hearing students through teaching and leadership. Dr. Perrodin-Singh holds degrees from Texas Southern University and Prairie View A&M University, and earned her doctorate in Deaf Studies/Deaf Education from Lamar University. She is a dedicated, student-centered leader committed to empowering learners to achieve meaningful, lasting success.
Menelik Tavares, FLV Youth Program Co-Leader
Menelik Tavares
Menelik Tavares
Menelik is an Atlanta native and a proud 2025 Gallaudet University graduate with a degree in English and Communication Studies. He brings a wealth of experience working with diverse groups. He's genuinely passionate about helping young people tap into their creativity and professionalism to unlock their full potential and believe in themselves. Menelik is deeply dedicated to celebrating their Deaf identity and advocating for their voices and expressions, fostering a stronger bond with their families and communities.
Shanna Thomas, FLV Family Activities Assistant
Shanna Thomas
Shanna Thomas
Shanna Marie Thomas was born in Jamaica and raised in the vibrant culture of the Bronx, New York City. She has always been driven by a passion for community and development. After attending the Lexington School for the Deaf, she pursued higher education at Gallaudet University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Recreation.
Today, Shanna brings her extensive knowledge, energy, and dedication to her role as a Paraeducator at Kendall Demonstration Elementary School. Through her work, she remains deeply committed to supporting, inspiring, and empowering the next generation of young learners to reach their full and unique potential.
Sponsors and Partners
Sponsors and Partners
FLV is grateful for the generous support of our fantastic sponsors and partners.
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