Amanda Tolle Wolfe, a Deaf Designer
of the Phoenix Mascot of the
Elizabeth School of the Deaf
Written by Jodi Christel Becker
Published in 2025
Published in 2025
Author's Note
I would like to thank Amanda Toole Wolfe for designing the wonderful Phoenix mascot for the Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf. As a proud parent of two adult Deaf children, Joshua and Danielle, who have since graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf, I only learned about this beautiful creation when I stumbled upon Amanda's post on Facebook in 2024. It was a delightful surprise to see the Phoenix mascot, especially considering its creation in 2022!
I contacted Amanda to learn more about the design process and the inspiration behind her choice of the Phoenix. She kindly shared all that information with me. The mascot is a fantastic addition to the school's history website, and I can't thank you enough, Amanda! Your work truly makes a difference.
I also want to give a big shout-out to Dr. Michelle Tanner, the Association Superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf, for helping to bring this project to life. Please take a moment to check out the pictures below—they are fantastic! Thank you, Amanda and Michelle!
Jodi Christel Becker
I contacted Amanda to learn more about the design process and the inspiration behind her choice of the Phoenix. She kindly shared all that information with me. The mascot is a fantastic addition to the school's history website, and I can't thank you enough, Amanda! Your work truly makes a difference.
I also want to give a big shout-out to Dr. Michelle Tanner, the Association Superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf, for helping to bring this project to life. Please take a moment to check out the pictures below—they are fantastic! Thank you, Amanda and Michelle!
Jodi Christel Becker
The Creation of the Phoenix Mascot for the
Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf
Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf
In August 2022, Dr. Michelle Tanner, Associate Superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf, approached Amanda Tolle Wolfe, a talented Deaf designer from Washington State and a school employee, regarding a special project. The task was to create a mascot for the Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf (EDS) on the USDB campus in Springville, Utah. Amanda, known for her passion for designing logos, enthusiastically accepted the challenge. Her dedication and creativity were evident in the vibrant Phoenix mascot she crafted for EDS, a design the school quickly adopted and celebrated. The vibrant Phoenix symbolized resilience and strength, perfectly embodying the spirit of the students and faculty at EDS. Amanda's design not only brought a sense of pride to the school community but also inspired a renewed excitement for their programs and events.
The Phoenix Mascot of the
Elizabeth School of the Deaf Designed by Amanda Tolle Wolfe
In Greek mythology, the Phoenix symbolizes immortality and rebirth, rising from the ashes of its predecessor to start anew. Amanda carefully considered this powerful symbolism when designing the Phoenix for EDS. Today, the EDS community is inspired and united by her design. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the Phoenix embody resilience and hope, encouraging individuals within the community to embrace their journeys of transformation. As members share their stories, the Phoenix stands as a reminder that, like its mythical counterpart, they too can rise stronger from challenges.
Amanda Wolfe Unveiled New Phoenix Mascot for the Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf. USDB Friday Newsletter, September 2, 2022
The Ceremony Marks the Unveiling of the Phoenix Mascot for the Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf
Following Amanda's presentation, the Elizabeth DeLong School community actively participated in selecting their new mascot. Both staff and students had the opportunity to vote for their preferred design, and the Phoenix emerged as the clear winner. This collaborative decision-making process not only validated Amanda's design but also fostered a sense of ownership and pride within the EDS community.
In September 2022, the Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf introduced its new mascot. Filled with enthusiasm, the staff and students embraced this exciting addition to their school community. The mascot, affectionately nicknamed Phoebe, quickly became a symbol of unity and pride. In November, two months later, the EDS campus invited Amanda to honor her as the designer of the mascot, as shown in the accompanying photo. Elizabeth DeLong, a renowned Deaf female leader in the Utah Deaf community and the namesake of the school, would undoubtedly be pleased with the new mascot. The EDS community is grateful to Amanda for creating a mascot they are proud to call their own. Her dedication and creativity have united the community, instilling a sense of belonging among students and staff alike. As they gather to celebrate their new mascot, an atmosphere of excitement and unity fills the air, reminding everyone of the strength that comes from their shared identity.
In September 2022, the Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf introduced its new mascot. Filled with enthusiasm, the staff and students embraced this exciting addition to their school community. The mascot, affectionately nicknamed Phoebe, quickly became a symbol of unity and pride. In November, two months later, the EDS campus invited Amanda to honor her as the designer of the mascot, as shown in the accompanying photo. Elizabeth DeLong, a renowned Deaf female leader in the Utah Deaf community and the namesake of the school, would undoubtedly be pleased with the new mascot. The EDS community is grateful to Amanda for creating a mascot they are proud to call their own. Her dedication and creativity have united the community, instilling a sense of belonging among students and staff alike. As they gather to celebrate their new mascot, an atmosphere of excitement and unity fills the air, reminding everyone of the strength that comes from their shared identity.
Elizabeth DeLong. FamilySearch.org
The students and staff at the Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf are viewing their new Phoenix mascot. USDB Friday Newsletter, September 2, 2022
The Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf students and staff. USDB Friday Newsletter, September 2, 2022
Note
Amanda Tolle Wolfe, personal communication, January 23, 2024.
Reference
"Amanda Wolfe Creates New Mascot." USDB Friday Newsletter, September 2, 2022.
