In Conversation
Michelle Everson-Smith for Bold. Brilliant. Unstoppable.
Read the transcript
Michelle Anne Everson-Smith: Speaker: Michelle Everson-Smith, Senior Educational Interpreter | Global Educational ResearcherWhat does being an Influential Woman mean to you?Michelle Everson-Smith: Hi, I'm Michelle Everson Smith, and being an influential woman means having a platform to reach others and to empower other women. Women have fought for equality in the workspace and other spaces, throughout history, and we have unprecedented access currently. I would like to promote equal access, and I would like to inspire women to be our best selves and to accomplish what women are capable of accomplishing, and that is great, great things.What's one piece of advice you would give to younger women chasing their dreams?Michelle Everson-Smith: Young women, imposter syndrome is real, and it doesn't really go away. You just start to grow into the roles that you were meant to fill, and that looks different for women than it does for men, and that isn't bad. Different doesn't mean bad, it just means different. Look for role models, mentors, help. It's OK to ask for help. Nobody got here on their own. Nobody gets anywhere or does anything spectacular on their own. Everyone needs help, and it takes a village not just to raise children, not just to be in community, but to accomplish what our hearts desire and so ask for help, make friends. Embrace community and grow into your best self.
Her Story
About Michelle
Michelle Everson-Smith is a certified American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, educational researcher, and educational professional with more than 20 years of experience promoting language accessibility, literacy, and educational equity for Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities. As a Senior Educational Interpreter with the San Diego Unified School District and a Sign Language Interpreter for the San Diego Community College District, she provides interpreting services across K–12 and higher education while supporting student achievement, instructional access, and inclusive learning environments.
Michelle recently earned her Master of Education in Global Education from Arizona State University, graduating with Distinction. Her graduate studies emphasized literacy, instructional leadership, qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, and action research. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from the University of Colorado Denver and an associate degree in Deaf Studies. She is preparing to transition into educational research and higher education administration, where she hopes to influence evidence-based policies, improve systems and processes, and expand educational opportunities through research and leadership.
Outside of her professional career, Michelle is actively involved in community service, environmental initiatives, and mentoring. She volunteers with organizations focused on neighborhood improvement, youth engagement, and environmental sustainability while advocating for greater accessibility and inclusion for Deaf communities. She is passionate about lifelong learning, collaboration, and creating meaningful change that extends beyond the classroom through research, leadership, and service.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Michelle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success first and foremost to my faith in Jesus, who has been my constant source of strength and guidance throughout every stage of my journey. I am also grateful for the teachers, mentors, and life experiences that have shaped my personal and professional growth. Above all, my daughter inspires me to continue learning, pursue new opportunities, and become the best example I can be for her.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of the most valuable lessons I learned came through my own educational journey rather than from a single piece of advice. My high school dual-enrollment program gave me the opportunity to earn college credits while exploring new interests, including American Sign Language. That experience opened the door to a career I had never imagined and taught me the importance of embracing opportunities, staying open to new paths, and continuing to learn. It ultimately led me to earn my Master's degree in Global Education, and I hope my journey serves as an example of perseverance and lifelong learning for my daughter.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice is to build a strong professional network and seek out mentors who understand how to navigate educational and professional systems. Don't try to do everything alone. Find people who will advocate for you, support your growth, and help you recognize opportunities. Also, don't hesitate to apply for positions even if you don't meet every qualification—you may be more capable than you realize.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges facing women today is balancing professional advancement with family responsibilities. Issues such as the motherhood wage penalty, limited childcare support, and traditional workplace expectations continue to create barriers to career growth. At the same time, there are tremendous opportunities to expand the impact of educational research, literacy initiatives, accessibility, and higher education leadership to create more equitable systems and improve outcomes for diverse communities.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide my work and personal life are balance, accessibility, resilience, and service. I believe in maintaining a healthy work–life balance so I can excel professionally while remaining present for my family. I am passionate about ensuring equal access to language and education for Deaf learners and using my skills to create more equitable opportunities for others.
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