Honoring a Life Member
BY CYNTHIA PEINADO
CELEBRATING DENNIS CAFFREY
Few individuals shape a profession as profoundly as Dennis Caffrey. Known by many as the myth, the legend, grandfather, the father, the loving husband, the colleague, the man, Dennis now adds another well-earned title to his remarkable life: Life Member of TAPIT.
This recognition reflects not just his years of involvement, but the extraordinary impact he has made on the interpreting community—locally, nationally, and internationally.
A Life of Service and Dedication
Dennis’s commitment to serving others began early in his life through his military service. The discipline, compassion, and sense of duty he cultivated there would become the foundation of his career in language access.
As a Certified Medical Interpreter, he has long been recognized for his professionalism and for the respect and dignity he brings to every encounter. His support for the communities he serves extends far beyond the workplace; Dennis has volunteered on numerous local and international medical missions, using language to bridge gaps in care and humanity.
TAPIT Conference 2018 | © 2018 Darien Mejia Chandler – DarienPhotography
An Advocate Who Moves the Profession Forward
Throughout his career, Dennis has been a consistent and powerful advocate for high standards in interpreting. His leadership has strengthened some of the most influential organizations in our field, including:
International Medical Interpreters Association (IMIA)
Board Member
State Chair
Conference Planning Committee Member
Mentor & Speaker Liaison
Tennessee Association of Professional Interpreters and Translators (TAPIT)
Treasurer and Board Member
Conference Planning Committee Member
Education Committee Member
NBCMI & CCHI
A Mentor Who Shapes Future Interpreters
In each of these roles, Dennis has worked with clarity, purpose, and a deep commitment to elevating the profession.
One of Dennis’s most enduring contributions is his dedication to training and mentoring. He has taught, guided, and inspired countless bilingual individuals—both in the U.S. and abroad—to become interpreters. His students consistently describe him as patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in their success.
The interpreters he has trained now serve communities across many states and countries, carrying forward the skills and professionalism he helped instill.
The Heart Behind the Work
Dennis is exemplary having many desirable qualities including being genuine, generous, and deeply committed to others. In 2021, he received the Volunteer of the Year award for having offered 5000 hours of volunteer work at Siloam Health. By now, he probably must upgraded that number by a few hundred more!
His willingness to help, teach, and support—often quietly, always wholeheartedly—has made him a trusted colleague and a cherished friend who reflects a simple but powerful belief: that communication is a form of care, and access is a form of dignity.
A Well-Deserved Honor
This year, TAPIT is proud to recognize Dennis Caffrey as a Life Member of TAPIT. This honor celebrates not only his accomplishments, but the integrity, generosity, and humanity with which he has achieved them. A role model for us to follow!
Dennis, thank you for your leadership, your mentorship, and the countless lives you have touched. Your legacy continues to inspire and elevate all of us. And thank you for gracing our website with your picture!
