Leah Geer

I began my academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from New Mexico State University, followed by a Master’s in Linguistics from Gallaudet University. My doctoral research in Linguistics at The University of Texas at Austin centered on language acquisition, particularly the development of fingerspelling skills among second-language learners of ASL and strategies to enhance their receptive abilities.

Upon joining Sacramento State, my work expanded to address broader issues, including Imposter Syndrome, fostering connections between Deaf/signing communities and speech and hearing professionals, and exploring early childhood education. These experiences deepened my commitment to bridging gaps in communication and understanding within diverse professional and community settings.

In recent years, my focus has shifted toward early intervention for deaf and hard of hearing children and their families. I have collaborated with researchers from Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Temple University, and the Kansas School for the Deaf to document language development in Deaf children from birth to age nine. Additionally, I completed a graduate certificate in Early Intervention at Gallaudet University in 2023 and earned a Master’s in Early Intervention Studies in December 2024.

This evolving specialty reflects my passion for empowering families to foster strong language foundations and socioemotional development in young Deaf children, blending my expertise in linguistics with my dedication to early intervention and family-centered support.