Alek Lev (Wesleyan University Class of ’97) is a director, producer, editor, writer, and nationally certified American Sign Language interpreter. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a double major in Theater and English from Wesleyan University. He spent his undergraduate days immersed in writing, theater, and ASL. He has gone on to a life in writing, theater, and American Sign Language.
Alek wrote, directed, edited, and produced WHAT?, a silent, black-and-white feature film which tells the story of a Deaf man struggling for respect in Hollywood. The film was accepted to 24 film festival across 9 countries, winning 20 awards, including 4 for Best Picture, 4 for Best Actor, 3 for Best Director, and 3 Audience Awards.
Since 2000, Alek has been a nationally certified American Sign Language interpreter. He has interpreted for three presidents, two Broadway shows, and one Beatle. He now trains interpreters, providing workshops on the history of the English language, political interpreting, acting tools for interpreters, and interpreting for film production.
Born and raised in New York City, Alek now lives in Los Angeles with his wife, two children, and espresso machine.
Check out our gallery of amazing student experiences!
Students take faculty-led trips to Japan with Prof. Mizuho Aussicker and visit Itsukushima Shrine at Miyajima Island 
Japanese intercultural guitarist Hiroya Tsukamoto with student Ashley Ponce and Prof. Luis O. Arata 
Students take faculty-led trips to Japan with Prof. Mizuho Aussicker and visit Himeji Castle 
Students take faculty-led trips to Japan with Prof. Mizuho Aussicker and visit Tokyo Sky Tree 
An evening with The Val Ramos Flamenco Ensemble… With a magical blend of Andalusian, Arabic, Jewish, and Romani cultures, students journey to the song and dance of southern Spain filled with fire and passion!
