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LONDON – (February 21, 2024) Sorenson, the leading provider of inclusive communication services for Deaf, Deafblind, and hard-of-hearing communities around the world, today announced Sign Language Interactions, SignVideo, and Sorenson Interpreting have been named as suppliers for the Language Services Framework “Non-Spoken Language Interpreting” for NHS North of England Commercial Procurement Collaborative (NOE CPC).

“We’re incredibly proud of being chosen by the NHS to provide quality language services to local authority councils, schools, police forces, fire and rescue services, and charities across the U.K.,” said Jorge Rodriguez, CEO of Sorenson. “This appointment represents a significant achievement for Sign Language Interactions, SignVideo, and Sorenson Interpreting, and exemplifies NHS’s commitment to effectively addressing language barriers and fostering an inclusive environment.”

The framework agreement, which commenced on January 2, 2024, and is set to expire on January 1, 2028, is a national framework available to all Procurement in Partnership Hubs, the wider NHS, and public sector entities like schools, police forces, and Third Sector Organizations. The appointment is a significant step toward enhancing the accessibility and inclusivity of language services across the U.K.

“Joining the NOE CPC framework marks a significant step towards ensuring equal access and communication for Deaf people across the UK,” said Matthew King, General Manager of Sorenson in the U.K. “Through SignVideo, Sorenson Interpreting, and Sign Language Interactions we will continue to connect lives and enrich the human experience.”

One of the framework’s unique features is its accessibility to various organisations. Membership in the NOE CPC is not a prerequisite for utilizing the services offered. Organisations can directly request the award of work to suppliers through Sorenson UK Sales at [email protected] or reach out to Ruth Burns, the Supplier Relationship Manager at NOE CPC at [email protected] or by phone at (114) 212-7561.

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About NOE CPC

Established in 2007, and wholly owned by the NHS, NHS North of England Commercial Procurement Collaborative (NOE CPC) provides collaborative and bespoke procurement solutions to the NHS and other public sector organizations.

Through category expertise and harnessing our collective buying power, NOE CPC delivers award-winning, compliant and innovative procurement solutions which save the NHS money. In addition to procurement expertise, NOE CPC provides tailored support, legal events and training to the public sector. For the NHS, by the NHS.

About Sorenson

Sorenson is one of the world’s leading language services providers, combining patented technology with human-centric solutions. We strive to increase accessibility through communication solutions for all. We provide call captioning and video relay services, video remote and in-person sign language and spoken language interpreting, translation, real-time captioning, and post-production language services. Our company impact extends beyond the 140 million conversations we facilitate annually— Sorenson improves lives through interpreted emergency and health services. Sorenson is a portfolio company of Ariel Alternatives, and we strive to manage and minimize our environmental impact. To learn more, visit sorenson.com.

Sorenson press contacts

U.S.

Ann Norman
Dir of Government Affairs & Public Relations
+1 (801) 317‑7789
[email protected]

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Salt Lake City – (Aug. 16, 2023) – Sorenson, a leading global language services provider of communication services for Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing people, is pleased to announce the inclusion of technology and telecommunications veteran and Sorenson Chief Executive Officer Jorge Rodriguez on the esteemed 2024 HITEC 100 list which honors the most influential and distinguished Hispanic professionals in technology.

Annually, HITEC recognizes the achievements and contributions of the top U.S.-based Hispanic technology executives with the goal of celebrating their impactful leadership and inspiring others looking to build careers in technology. HITEC’s vision is to accelerate the power and impact of Hispanic technology leaders, achieving lasting equity from the classroom to the boardroom. Last year, Rodriguez was named Sorenson’s first Latino CEO.

“I continue to be inspired by the impact and achievements of these Latinx tech leaders,” said HITEC Board Member and Awards Committee Chair Alvaro Celis. “On behalf of the HITEC Board of Directors and the awards committee members, a most heartfelt congratulations to the HITEC 100 awardees. We look forward to celebrating you.”

Rodriguez, who is expanding Sorenson’s accessible and inclusive services to new communities and countries, has more than 30 years of experience in the technology industry, and Rodriguez served as president and CEO of multiple América Móvil companies, including Claro Enterprise Solutions and Telvista, Inc. He is a passionate advocate for inclusivity in the tech industry and is committed to using technology to improve the lives of people around the world.

“I am honored to be named to the HITEC 100 list,” said Rodriguez. “I am committed to using technology to make a positive and sustainable impact in the world, and I am proud to be a part of HITEC’s mission.”

The 2024 HITEC 100 Award recipients include some of the world’s most respected Hispanic leaders from global Fortune 100 firms, including CEOs, CIOs, CTOs and leaders in technology disciplines. Forty-nine percent of this year’s HITEC 100 Award recipients are Latinas, and recipients come from 19 unique countries from throughout Latin America, Spain and Portugal. Recipients are leaders from 63 different companies and 36 percent are being recognized with the HITEC 100 Award for the first time.

“I am so proud to see the accomplishments of our Hispanic Technology Executives that are driving change and innovation in their organizations,” said HITEC Board Chair Rosa Ramos-Kwok. “The HITEC 100 recipients are ‘el orgullo’ [the pride] of our community.”

Rodriguez holds an M.S. degree in technology from Columbia University, earned an MBA from Rochester Institute of Technology, is a graduate of Kenan-Flagler’s (UNC Chapel Hill) Masters Advanced Management Program, and received his B.A. in biology-molecular biology from Colgate University. Mr. Rodriguez serves on external boards, including the Board of Overseers for Columbia University SPS.

HITEC, a premier global executive leadership organization of senior business and technology executives, stands devoted to cultivating exceptional careers in the tech industry. With a vision to accelerate the influence and impact of Hispanic technology leaders, HITEC strives for lasting equity, creating opportunities from the classroom to the boardroom.

To view the complete HITEC 100 list, please click here

Announcement in ASL

About HITEC

HITEC is a leading global executive leadership organization, comprising senior business and technology executives, committed to advancing inclusivity within the technology sector. Through its various initiatives and the annual HITEC 100 recognition, the organization strives to empower Hispanic technology leaders, creating a more equitable and inclusive tech industry. For more information, please contact HITEC Programs Director Cristin Aguilera, at [email protected].

About Sorenson

Sorenson is one of the world’s leading language services providers, combining patented technology with human-centric solutions. We strive to increase accessibility through communication solutions for all. We provide call captioning and video relay services, video remote and in-person sign language and spoken language interpreting, translation, real-time captioning, and post-production language services. Our company impact extends beyond the 140 million conversations we facilitate annually— Sorenson improves lives through interpreted emergency and health services. Sorenson is a portfolio company of Ariel Alternatives, and we strive to manage and minimize our environmental impact. To learn more, visit sorenson.com.

Sorenson press contacts

U.S.

Ann Norman
Dir of Government Affairs & Public Relations
+1 (801) 317‑7789
[email protected]

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SignVideo by Sorenson Launches Partnership with Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Services, Enabling First Emergency Service of Its Kind to Be Fully Accessible to the Deaf

Salt Lake City – (August 22, 2023) – Sorenson, the leading language services provider of inclusive communication services for Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and diverse people, today announced a partnership with Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Services (LFRS) in the U.K. through SignVideo by Sorenson to make emergency services fully accessible to people who are Deaf.

“We are extremely proud to be one of the first Fire and Rescue Services to be able to fully reach our Deaf communities,” said Chief Fire and Rescue Officer, Callum Faint, in an April 28, 2023 news release published on the LFRS website. “It is so important to us that we make our services as accessible to as many people as possible.”

The partnership provides LFRS with access to the SignVideo by Sorenson service, which offers live, on-demand British Sign Language (BSL) Video Remote Interpreting, Video Relay Services, and BSL/English Translation Services. This allows people who are Deaf to communicate with LFRS staff in their preferred language – sign language, regardless of their location.

“I have used SignVideo by Sorenson twice in the last few months and on both occasions found the service very good,” said Kevin Hubbard, a community educator for LFRS. Hubbard’s team helps prevent emergencies by educating the community in fire safety. “On both occasions my calls were answered very promptly, with the interpreter showing time and patience to ensure the questions I was asking, and the information I needed to relay to the customer was understood and retained.”

In July 2022, significant advancements were made in enhancing accessibility for emergency services with the introduction of 999 BSL. This pivotal development enables individuals who are Deaf to place emergency calls to the 999 service through the assistance of a Sorenson interpreter. However, the LFRS recognized a challenge in effectively communicating with Deaf individuals during emergency responses. As a proactive measure, the LFRS has successfully integrated iPads® equipped with the SignVideo by Sorenson app across all their fire equipment.

This innovative solution empowers emergency personnel to seamlessly connect with individuals who are Deaf with the assistance of a Sorenson interpreter, ensuring effective communication in critical situations.

“Sorenson is proud to partner with Leicestershire Fire & Rescue Services to make their service fully accessible to people who are Deaf,” said Jorge Rodriguez, CEO of Sorenson. “We are committed to bridging communication gaps across the world to ensure everyone has equal access to essential emergency services. This partnership is a significant milestone in our mission to connect people beyond words, and we are proud to support LFRS in ensuring the safety of the Deaf community that they serve.”

Sorenson’s mission is to “harness the power of language to connect diverse people and enrich the human experience.” As one of the world’s leading language services providers and the world’s leading provider of communication tools for Deaf and hard-of-hearing people, Sorenson combines patented technology with human-centric services to connect signed and spoken languages: captioning and video relay services, over-video and in-person sign language and spoken language interpreting, real-time event captioning services, and post-production language services.

“We had a works meeting booked with a Deaf person that uses BSL and an interpreter. Unfortunately, the interpreter fell ill at the last minute. Instead of re-scheduling the meeting, we gave SignVideo a try,” said Emma Parrett, a community educator for LFRS. “It was perfect. Logging in was easy, and the interpreter was excellent. This saved us re-scheduling the meeting. We will definitely use it again”.

Announcement in ASL

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About Sorenson

Sorenson is one of the world’s leading language services providers, combining patented technology with human-centric solutions. We strive to increase accessibility through communication solutions for all. We provide call captioning and video relay services, video remote and in-person sign language and spoken language interpreting, translation, real-time captioning, and post-production language services. Our company impact extends beyond the 140 million conversations we facilitate annually— Sorenson improves lives through interpreted emergency and health services. Sorenson is a portfolio company of Ariel Alternatives, and we strive to manage and minimize our environmental impact. To learn more, visit sorenson.com.

Sorenson press contacts

U.S.

Ann Norman
Dir of Government Affairs & Public Relations
+1 (801) 317‑7789
[email protected]

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Leading language services provider has been named one of the best employers for women two years in a row.

SALT LAKE CITY – (July 25, 2023) – Sorenson, the leading language services provider of communication services for Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing people, was today named to Forbes Best Employers for Women list for 2023. Sorenson was also recognized with this honor in 2022 for offering various programs, initiatives and working environments designed to support women employees and help them succeed, including:

• A comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off
• An employee resource group specifically for women
• At least 75 percent of all employees are female
• An inclusive leadership learning program

“We are committed to creating a workplace where women are valued and respected,” said Brian Breinholt, Chief HR Officer for Sorenson. “We believe that a broadly representative workforce is a stronger workforce, and we are proud to be a company that is leading the way in creating a more supportive working environment for women.”

The Forbes Best Employers for Women list is an annual ranking of the top 100 companies in the United States considered to be the best workplaces for women. Forbes and market research company Statista identified companies leading the way when it comes to supporting women inside and outside their workforces. The Best Employers for Women 2023 were identified through an independent survey from a vast sample of more than 60,000 U.S. employees working for companies employing at least 1,000 people within the United States. The sample included more than 40,000 women. According to Statista, the evaluation was based on four different criteria:

• Direct recommendations (work topics in general): The employees were asked to give their opinion on a series of statements surrounding atmosphere and development, image, working conditions, salary and wage, workplace, and representation regarding their employer. Additionally, the likelihood of recommending one’s employer was also asked.
• Direct recommendations (topics relevant to women): Women were asked to rate their employers regarding parental leave, family support, flexibility, discrimination, representation and career, and fair compensation.
• Indirect recommendations: Participants were given the chance to evaluate other employers in their respective industries that stand out either positively or negatively with regard to employment. Only the recommendations of women were considered.
• Makeup of top executives / board: Based on extensive research, an index was built based on the share of women in executive management or board positions.

Sorenson has received numerous awards and recognitions for its outstanding performance and achievements. In previous years, Sorenson was recognized on prestigious lists such as Forbes America’s Best Midsize Employers, The Silicon Review’s 50 Best Workplaces of the Year, Forbes Best-in-State Employers, Forbes Best Employers for Women, Forbes Best Employers for Diversity, and Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Company. These awards highlight Sorenson’s commitment to innovation, branding, workplace inclusivity, and exceptional experiences for employees and job applicants.

“We are honored to once again be named to the Forbes Best Employers for Women list,” said Ehrika Gladden, President of Sorenson Enterprise. “This recognition is a testament to our core values and company culture. We are committed to creating a workplace with the necessary benefits, opportunities for advancement, and a supportive work environment where women can thrive.”

Announcement in ASL

About Sorenson

Sorenson is one of the world’s leading language services providers, combining patented technology with human-centric solutions. We strive to increase accessibility through communication solutions for all. We provide call captioning and video relay services, video remote and in-person sign language and spoken language interpreting, translation, real-time captioning, and post-production language services. Our company impact extends beyond the 140 million conversations we facilitate annually— Sorenson improves lives through interpreted emergency and health services. Sorenson is a portfolio company of Ariel Alternatives, and we strive to manage and minimize our environmental impact. To learn more, visit sorenson.com.

Sorenson press contacts

U.S.

Ann Norman
Dir of Government Affairs & Public Relations
+1 (801) 317‑7789
[email protected]

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Communications leader continues advocacy for linguistic parity for all people in all settings

SALT LAKE CITY – (July 12, 2023) – Sorenson, the leading language services provider of accessible communication services for Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing people, today announced it has been recognized as a top-scoring company on the 2023 Disability Equality Index^®, earning an impressive score of 90. DEI is the world’s most comprehensive benchmarking tool for the Fortune 1000 and Am Law 2001 to measure disability workplace inclusion against competitors.

“We are honored to be recognized as a top-scoring company on the Disability Equality Index,” said Jorge Rodriguez, CEO of Sorenson. “This recognition is a testament to the culture of belonging that exists at Sorenson. Our core mission involves creating a more accessible and linguistically equitable world. So, naturally, this must be reflected in our workplace where every person has equal opportunity to thrive.”

The Disability Equality Index evaluates companies on a variety of factors, including employment, accessibility, community engagement, and support services, and Sorenson was recognized for its strength in these areas. More specifically, Sorenson has a long history of hiring people with varied abilities and offers a variety of accommodations and support services to ensure that all employees can participate fully in the workplace.

Globally, people with disabilities represent over one billion people, according to the DEI. Disability crosses lines of age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, race, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and religion.

“We are proud to be a part of the Disability Equality Index program,” said Kenya McPheeters, Director of Workplace Inclusion and Impact at Sorenson. “The index is an important tool for companies that are committed to creating inclusive workplaces, and we are committed to continuing our work to create a workplace where all employees of all abilities can succeed.”

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About the Disability Equality Index

The Disability Equality Index is a comprehensive benchmarking tool that helps companies build a roadmap of measurable, tangible actions that they can take to achieve disability inclusion and equality. Each company receives a score, on a scale of zero (0) to 100, with those earning 80 and above recognized as a “Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion”.

The Disability Equality Index is a joint initiative of the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), the nation’s largest disability rights organization, and Disability:IN, the global business disability inclusion network, to collectively advance the inclusion of people with disabilities. The organizations are complementary and bring unique strengths that make the project relevant and credible to corporations and the disability community. The tool was developed by the Disability Equality Index Advisory Committee, a diverse group of business leaders, policy experts, and disability advocates. Learn more at: www.DisabilityEqualityIndex.org.

About Sorenson

Sorenson is one of the world’s leading language services providers, combining patented technology with human-centric solutions. We strive to increase accessibility through communication solutions for all. We provide call captioning and video relay services, video remote and in-person sign language and spoken language interpreting, translation, real-time captioning, and post-production language services. Our company impact extends beyond the 140 million conversations we facilitate annually— Sorenson improves lives through interpreted emergency and health services. Sorenson is a portfolio company of Ariel Alternatives, and we strive to manage and minimize our environmental impact. To learn more, visit sorenson.com.

Sorenson press contacts

U.S.

Ann Norman
Dir of Government Affairs & Public Relations
+1 (801) 317‑7789
[email protected]

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Available in Spanish

New subscription service delivers on-demand video communication options to advance accessibility and inclusion

SALT LAKE CITY – (May 18, 2023) Today, on Global Accessibility Awareness Day, Sorenson, the worldwide leader in inclusive language services for Deaf and hard-of-hearing people, announced the availability of Sorenson Express for public and private enterprises. The subscription service enables businesses to provide customers and employees with a consistent and frictionless experience anywhere and anytime.

Sorenson Express operates on iOS® and Android® devices.  With one click, an enterprise user can request an interpreter (either ASL-to-English or ASL-to-Spanish), who appears on the screen within moments. Qualified interpreters relay signed and spoken conversations, facilitating a natural and personal experience for Deaf and hearing users.

“Sorenson is critically focused on making a meaningful impact in the lives of our diverse employees, customers, and communities through accessible products and services,” said Jorge Rodriguez, President and CEO of Sorenson, which across all business lines processes more than 140 million conversations annually. “Sorenson Express is a powerful tool that helps businesses advance accessibility and inclusion. We’ve been a leader in on-demand video interpreting services for 20 years, and Sorenson Express represents an expansion of that leadership to the enterprise.”

For retail, hospitality, financial services, healthcare, and other customer-facing businesses, Sorenson Express can create compelling experiences and provide high-quality service to all patrons to drive equity of care. In a retail setting, for example, Deaf shoppers can have on-demand access to experienced ASL interpreters as soon as they enter a store, allowing them to ask questions and engage with store personnel. Staff, meanwhile, can use the app to help Deaf customers find products, inquire about needs and preferences, recommend new offerings, and engage on a personal level.

“The quality of the customer experience has a huge impact on the reputation of any business, and in many cases is the key to its success or failure,” said Rodriguez. “Businesses invest significant time, resources, and training to prepare customer-facing staff to effectively engage and communicate with buyers. Sorensen Express ensures every person who engages with a business receives the same welcoming, helpful service.  By demonstrating a commitment to inclusion and accessibility, moreover, companies can boost their brand, as well as their talent acquisition and retention strategies.”

In the workplace, Sorenson Express supports seamless interaction and communication between Deaf and hearing colleagues. Rather than having to schedule an interpreter several hours in advance, a Deaf employee can join impromptu meetings, contribute when urgent matters arise, or simply chat with colleagues.

“In today’s dynamic and competitive environment, businesses need creative, multi-dimensional approaches to problem-solving,” said Rodriguez. “By streamlining collaboration – and communication –  between all workers, Sorenson Express will help businesses leverage the full extent of their workforces’ perspectives, experiences, and talents.”

Sorenson Express is now available to enterprises within the United States. Visit Sorenson Express to learn more.

View announcement in ASL

About Sorenson

Sorenson is one of the world’s leading language services providers, combining patented technology with human-centric solutions. We strive to increase accessibility through communication solutions for all. We provide call captioning and video relay services, video remote and in-person sign language and spoken language interpreting, translation, real-time captioning, and post-production language services. Our company impact extends beyond the 140 million conversations we facilitate annually— Sorenson improves lives through interpreted emergency and health services. Sorenson is a portfolio company of Ariel Alternatives, and we strive to manage and minimize our environmental impact. To learn more, visit sorenson.com.

Sorenson press contacts

U.S.

Ann Norman
Dir of Government Affairs & Public Relations
+1 (801) 317‑7789
[email protected]

Available in Spanish

SALT LAKE CITY – (May 3, 2023) – Today, American Business Awards® announced Sorenson, the leading language services provider of accessible communication services for Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing people, has been named the 2023 Silver Stevie® Award winner in the Brand Experience of the Year category.

The American Business Awards are the United States’ premier business awards program. All organizations operating in the U.S. are eligible to submit nominations – public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small.

Sorenson was recognized for its rigorous brand refresh which set a new industry standard for inclusivity in 2022. The average rebrand usually requires 12 to 18 months, and includes countless hours of market research, concept art, brand identity designs, product redesigns, community polling, and education.

“Under new leadership, our agile and talented marketing team rose to the challenge and mobilized within a tight six-week timeframe to research, develop, and launch our bold new brand,” said Camila Casale, Chief Marketing Officer of Sorenson. “We were thrilled to unveil the refreshed brand identity at Clin d’Oeil, the world’s largest celebration of sign language, held in Reims, France. The accomplishment is a testament to the dedication, passion, and resilience of our team, as well as our commitment to empowering and connecting the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities on a global scale.”

More than 230 professionals worldwide participated in the judging process to select this year’s Stevie Award winners.

“Totally Impressed!” one of the anonymous judges commented. “Six weeks to fully evaluate, plan and launch a brand refresh is not something I have seen done successfully until now.”

This year, more than 3,700 Stevie Award nominations were submitted for consideration in a wide range of categories. For more than two decades, the Stevies have recognized excellence in business and are widely considered to be one of the most prestigious awards in the industry.

Last year, Sorenson was acquired by majority owner Ariel Alternatives, the first company in Ariel’s “Project Black” private equity fund. With new vision, one of the top priorities for global expansion was to develop a brand that was more representative of the new Sorenson, one that would be easily recognized as an industry leader in inclusion and accessibility.

Globally, there are 7.75 billion people who use more than 7,500 languages. Each person with each language is hardwired to connect with others through communication. As a global leader in language services for Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities, Sorenson is the connective layer that created an infinite and beautiful tapestry of connections. And while Sorenson provided an accessible platform to communicate ideas and emotions beyond words, the company needed a new brand that underpinned that core principle: Connection.

“We are deeply honored to be recognized by American Business Awards for our brand refresh, a direct reflection of our vision and the global need for human connection,” said Jorge Rodriguez, CEO of Sorenson. “Through our rebranding efforts, we’ve aimed to create a visual identity that resonates with our audience, showcases the importance of accessible communication, and inspires positive change within the industry. This prestigious acknowledgement not only validates our efforts but also fuels our determination to continue advancing our mission, fostering stronger relationships, and enhancing the lives of those we serve.”

Sorenson’s commitment to innovation in communication technology has been a driving force since its inception twenty years ago. This week, Olelo by Sorenson was named a 2023 Gold Stevie® Award winner in this year’s Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Solution category.

“It is very gratifying for us to be able to recognize the achievements of such a wide variety of organizations, teams, and individuals in the 21st ABAs, and we look forward to bringing them together in New York on June 13 to celebrate with them,” said Maggie Miller, president of the Stevie Awards.

About Sorenson

Sorenson is one of the world’s leading language services providers, combining patented technology with human-centric solutions. We strive to increase accessibility through communication solutions for all. We provide call captioning and video relay services, video remote and in-person sign language and spoken language interpreting, translation, real-time captioning, and post-production language services. Our company impact extends beyond the 140 million conversations we facilitate annually— Sorenson improves lives through interpreted emergency and health services. Sorenson is a portfolio company of Ariel Alternatives, and we strive to manage and minimize our environmental impact. To learn more, visit sorenson.com.

Sorenson press contacts

U.S.

Ann Norman
Dir of Government Affairs & Public Relations
+1 (801) 317‑7789
[email protected]