Tennessee Language Center - TLC

Registration for our world languages summer term opens today! Classes will begin the week of July 6, 2026. If you register by June 22, you will receive 10% off.

We offer classes in 11 different languages, with options for in-person or online for most languages. Classes meet in real time for 2 hours each week for 9 weeks. Check out our class catalog for more information or to register: https://languagecenter.matrixlms.com/visitor_class_catalog/category/70521

TLC Executive Director Eric Amos and Business Manager Amanda Shappard recently attended the annual Consortium of University Public Service Organizations (CUPSO) conference in Anchorage, Alaska.

The conference brought together leaders from university-based public service organizations across the country to share ideas and explore topics including leadership, communication, community engagement, and emerging technologies in public service.

The experience provided valuable opportunities to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and bring back insights that support TLC’s mission of helping Tennesseans access important services and information through language access.

🎉 Congratulations to the 8 interpreters who recently completed the Tennessee Language Center’s Medical Interpretation Training Course (MITC)!

This cohort included interpreters working in Spanish-English and one Pohnpeian interpreter, a rare Micronesian language. By strengthening interpreting skills across languages, these professionals help ensure patients can access quality care when communication matters most.

Our next MITC cohort begins in August. Learn more on our course webpage: https://tlc.tennessee.edu/medical-interpreter-training

It’s ! Meet Portuguese Instructor Simone Cavalcante.

Her students say she "patient and gives feedback in a really positive, constructive way."

It's — a spotlight on the incredible instructors who make TLC such a special place to learn.

Portuguese Instructor Simone Cavalcante, who was born and raised in Brazil, has taught at the University of Oregon, the University of Kansas, and the University of Pennsylvania.

What students say:
"Simone is very knowledgeable about the language AND the cultures of Brazil vs Portugal. She's patient and gives feedback in a really positive, constructive way."

We’re grateful for passionate educators like Simone who help our students gain confidence, connection, and cultural understanding every day. 🌎✨

The Tennessee Language Center will be closed on Monday, May 25, in honor of Memorial Day.

🎓 Clear communication helps make milestone moments even more meaningful.

TLC was proud to provide interpretation services for Valor’s High School Graduation at Ga***rd Opryland on May 17, helping families and loved ones fully share in the celebration.

A special thank you to interpreters Omaira Rivera Stinson, Gabriela Bohorquez Boscan and Azad Saleem for supporting this unforgettable day! 💙

📸 Pictured left to right: Omaira Rivera Stinson and Gabriela Bohorquez Boscan.

Congratulations to our most recent graduates of our Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) course!

Our summer cohort started this week. Our Fall cohort will begin in late August. Check out https://tlc.tennessee.edu/tesl for more information.

It's — a spotlight on the incredible instructors who make TLC such a special place to learn.

Japanese Instructor Noriko Harasawa, who was born and raised in Tokyo, has been teaching for more than 30 years.

Why she teaches:
"Through Japanese, I have been able to help people: heritage Japanese American kids, expat international business men/women, people who want to visit Japan and so on. I am very proud of introducing others to the beautiful, interesting and unique Japanese culture."

What students say:
"Noriko combines structure, encouragement, and great teaching strategies. I hope to be in her class again!"

We’re grateful for passionate educators like Noriko who help our students gain confidence, connection, and cultural understanding every day. 🌎✨

Irma from TLC's English Programs had a wonderful time representing us at the Nashville Public Library’s Adult Education Spring Symposium! 🌱📚

This annual event brings together adult educators, literacy advocates, and community organizations from across the region for a day of collaboration, fresh ideas, and inspiration. Events like these highlight the power of partnerships in expanding access to education and language services throughout Tennessee.

We’re grateful to be part of such a passionate and dedicated community working to support adult learners every day!