Alan Spanjer (Al) was born in Chicago, Illinois, the 5th of 7 hearing children to Deaf parents. In the Deaf world, he is a Child of Deaf Adults (CODA). He grew up in the Deaf community, attending Chicago Club for the Deaf (CCD) and numerous other organizations.

He also has over 20 years experience in marketing and the printing industry. His varied work and life experience provides this organization with the unique and necessary perspective that complements the services provided by the DeafDOC.

He has a vested interest in improving access to information as well as the quality of interpreting in the medical setting. Additionally, he seeks to empower people through education and self-advocacy.

He is married to Dr. Carolyn Stern, and lives in Rochester, NY with their 3 children.