More languages are spoken in New Jersey than almost any other state, yet there is a critical shortage of translators. Students and faculty from the Lives in Translation program are helping to fill the void.
“NJ is one of the most diverse states and its limited-English proficient population continues to grow, making language access a critical component in ensuring all residents receive equitable access to government-based, healthcare, public, and social resources,’’ said Stephanie Rodriguez, director of the program.
Collectively, the students from Lives in Translation—a volunteer effort that has evolved into an academic program that offers a minor in translation—speak a multitude of languages from Spanish and Portuguese to Arabic and Haitian Creole.