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Michelle Cline – Executive Director, Rhode Island Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (RICDHH)
Michelle Cline serves as the Executive Director of the Rhode Island Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. She began her role on June 5, 2023, bringing a wealth of experience in counseling, education, policy work, advocacy, and legislative affairs. Notably, Michelle was the first female Treasurer of the National Association for the Deaf and played a pivotal role in advocating for the Language Access for Deaf Kids 0-5 and Deaf Students’ Bill of Rights in New Jersey. She currently resides in Massachusetts with her husband, William, and their three pups, enjoying traveling and visiting their grown children.
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Betsy Beach – President, Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA), Rhode Island Chapter
Betsy Beach is the President of the Rhode Island Chapter of the Hearing Loss Association of America. She actively engages in community outreach, providing information, resources, and support to individuals living with hearing loss. Betsy has contributed to various educational events, including presentations on hearing loss and emerging technologies. She is also involved in organizing social events, such as walks along the Charles River, to foster community engagement.
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James Litvack- Rhode Island Adaptive Telephone Equipment Loan Program
James Litvack is a contractor for the Rhode Island Adaptive Telephone Equipment Loan Program (RI-ATEL), where he oversees the distribution of adaptive telecommunication devices to individuals with disabilities, enhancing their ability to communicate effectively. With a background in assistive technology and a commitment to accessibility, James plays a pivotal role in ensuring that Rhode Islanders have access to the tools they need to maintain independence and stay connected.
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Christine West- Health Equity Director, UnitedHealthcare Community & State Plan of Rhode Island (UHC)
Christine West is the Health Equity Director at UnitedHealthcare Community & State Plan of Rhode Island, where she leads efforts to reduce health disparities and improve access to healthcare for underserved populations. In addition to her work at UnitedHealthcare, Christine is a nationally certified sign language interpreter, former teacher of the deaf and educational administrator, and former Director of the Health System Transformation Project at the RI Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. With her background in health equity, communication access, and education, she is uniquely positioned to moderate our upcoming panel discussion for Hearing Loss Awareness Month. Christine is also a TVCRI board member and serves on the TVCRI DEI Committee.
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