Eleanor Kay Kinner Curtis, ​the Utah Deaf Model

Eleanor Kay Kinner Curtis,
the Utah Deaf Model

Compiled & Written by Jodi Christel Becker

Published in 2019
Updated in 2025

Author's Note

Eleanor Kay Kinner

Eleanor Kay Kinner Curtis, affectionately known as "Kay," is my aunt-in-law by marriage and is believed to be the first Deaf model in Utah and the United States. This groundbreaking achievement deserves recognition. Standing at 5'10" with a slender build, she not only broke barriers but also showcased her unique sense of fashion and creativity. Her outfits—a blend of elegance and innovation—were stunning and reflected her keen eye for style.

Despite the challenges she faced as a Deaf woman in Utah, her resilience and talent knew no bounds. Her daughter, Rebecca Curtis Larsen, who is a Child of Deaf Adults, believes that her mother's potential in the modeling and fashion industries would have been even more transformative had she been able to hear. Rebecca often reflects on how her mother's journey inspires countless others in the Deaf community. She envisions a world where her mother's innovative spirit could have thrived, breaking down even more barriers in the fashion industry.

Kay's love for posing for photographs went beyond showcasing her beauty; it reflected her passion and joy for the modeling world. During her senior year at the Utah School for the Deaf, Kay modeled for Auerbach's department store, one of the most prominent clothing stores in Ogden, Utah. She also showcased various outfits during numerous photo sessions at Collins/Morris Photography.

In April 1953, the Utah School for the Deaf published the Utah Eagle magazine, featuring Kay on its front cover. This significant event marked her as a pioneer in the Deaf modeling community. Kay's journey and achievements have inspired many young Deaf individuals, proving that with determination and talent, they too can pursue their dreams in the fashion industry. Her influence continues to resonate in the Utah Deaf community, where she is celebrated as a trailblazer who redefined beauty standards and broke down barriers.

Rebecca observed that discrimination, particularly the pressure on Deaf individuals to pursue "unlikely" jobs, was prevalent during the 1940s and 1950s. For a Deaf woman in Utah, the challenges were even greater, as societal attitudes toward disability were often dismissive or patronizing. If Kay were a graduating senior today, Rebecca believes she would have more opportunities to pursue a career in modeling. However, despite the progress made over the years, Rebecca feels that society still has a long way to go to fully embrace diversity and inclusivity across various fields. She hopes that future generations will continue to dismantle barriers and redefine possibilities for individuals with disabilities. By advocating for change and raising awareness about the unique talents and perspectives that people with disabilities offer, Rebecca believes that society can create a more equitable environment where everyone has the chance to succeed. She envisions a future where diversity is celebrated, leading to richer experiences and more opportunities for everyone.

Enclosed are the photos you will find of Eleanor Kay Kinner enjoying posing for pictures at the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah, and the clothing catalog as a professional model. As a professional model, she showcased various outfits that highlighted her unique style and confidence. The vibrant designs in the catalog beautifully captured her personality, making her an inspiration to many.

Kay had a Deaf twin brother named Kenneth L. Kinner, who was just as attractive as she was. I hope you enjoy viewing the photos below as much as I do. I greatly appreciate your interest in this topic. By sharing stories and experiences like those of Kay and Kenneth, we can foster understanding and compassion in our communities. Your interest and support are genuinely valued.

Enjoy!

Jodi Christel Becker

Eleanor Kay Kinner on front cover of the Utah Eagle magazine in April 1953

Kenneth and Eleanor Kinner

Kay & her twin brother, Kenneth, 1954 Utah School for the Deaf graduates

Kenneth L. Kinner

Eleanor Kay Kinner poses for
photos at the Utah School for the Deaf
in Ogden, Utah

Eleanor Kay Kinner, age 13, in 1946

Eleanor Kay Kinner, age 14, in 1947

Eleanor Kay Kinner, age 16, at the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah, in 1949

Eleanor Kay Kinner, age 16, in 1949

Eleanor Kay Kinner standing outside of the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah, in the 1950s

Eleanor Kay Kinner posing outside of the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah, in the 1950s

L-R: Lawana Simoons, Eleanor Kay Kinner, and Sally Shimoda at the Utah School for the Deaf campus in Ogden, Utah, in the 1950s

L-R: Donna Lee Dekker, Clara Bosshardt, Eleanor Kay Kinner, Dixie Lee Larson standing in front of the Driggs Dormitory Hall of the Utah School for the Deaf in the 1950s

L-R: Elaine Sprouse, Eleanor Kay Kinner, Dixie Lee Larson, Shanna Christiansen in the 1950s

L-R: Clara Bosshardt, Lila Bosshardt, Carol MacTee, Eleanor Kay Kinner, Shanna Christiansen, Donna Mae Dekker at the Utah School for the Deaf's dance in Ogden, Utah, in the 1950s