Surprise, surprise. Her expressive face as an accent with her American sign language found global attention through Governor Tim Walz’ news conferences in the aftermath of the George Floyd killing and all the Co-Vid conferences since. Zapko was born deaf. Image: Governor Facebook
Signing interpreter 50 and still counting
ST. PAUL, Minn. – To the surprise of sign-language interpreter Nic Zapko, Governor Tim Walz wished her happy birthday at a news event and proclaimed it Nic Zapko Day. The ever-professional Zapko, who never misses a word or gesture, couldn’t contain herself. She lost it. Her arms shot skyward. Glee overwhelmed her. Walz announced his proclamation during a news conference about expanding the state’s Co-Vid vaccination program. He said Zapko deserved recognition for her gusto at hundreds of his news events. Zapko, he said, has assured that Minnesotans have accurate and timely information. About 20% of Minnesotans are deaf, deaf-blind, or hard of hearing, Walz said.