WCPO: 'CODA' wins big at Oscars, boosts visibility of Deaf and ASL communities
UC ASL and Deaf studies program director thrilled by Oscar winning film’s impact
When the best picture Oscar went to “CODA” on Sunday, March 27, at the 94th annual Academy Awards it was celebrated worldwide, and by UC faculty, students and staff in the ASL and Deaf Studies program. The film was about a girl named Ruby, as a CODA (child of deaf adults) and the only hearing person in her home. When she discovers a passion for singing, Ruby must choose between family obligations and her dreams.
"Last night, that was our moment, that was our time to say 'OK, things don't stop from here,” UC’s program Arrianna Bedgood, told WCPO through an interpreter because she is deaf.
The film’s star Troy Kotsur also made history when Kotsur become the first deaf man to win an Oscar for acting, taking home the statue for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. In an emotional acceptance speech, he dedicated the award "to the Deaf community, the CODA community and the disabled community.
"The only next step is to keep going," said Bedgood.
Featured image at top of ASL instructor Arriana Bedgood teaching during the pandemic. Photo/Colleen Kelley/UC Creative + Brand.
Impact Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is leading public urban universities into a new era of innovation and impact. Our faculty, staff and students are saving lives, changing outcomes and bending the future in our city's direction. Next Lives Here.
Related Stories
Decade of discovery
July 27, 2026
Every summer, UHP Discover has connected undergraduate students in the University Honors Program (UHP) to a unique array of opportunities in original interdisciplinary research. This year, the program celebrates its 10th anniversary.
Building community
July 27, 2026
The inaugural Ultra-SLP Conference brought together clinicians and researchers from across the country to advance the practice of using ultrasound technology to treat disorders of speech and swallowing.
The subtle changes in hearing you should never ignore
July 24, 2026
It’s easy to dismiss changes in hearing as minor. But as The Washington Post recently reported, these symptoms could also signal a medical emergency that many people don’t recognize — known as sudden sensorineural hearing loss, a rapid decline in hearing that occurs suddenly or over a few days.