Utah's Connection In
Gallaudet University History
Compiled & Written by Jodi Becker Kinner
Published in 2012
Updated in 2021
Published in 2012
Updated in 2021
Gallaudet University now serves as the world's only liberal arts college for Deaf and hard of hearing students. This university was founded in 1864 in Washington, D.C., as the National Deaf-Mute College. This college was renamed Gallaudet College in 1894 in honor of Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, a pioneer in Deaf education. When President Ronald Reagan signed the Education of the Deaf Act in 1986, Gallaudet College was renamed Gallaudet University (Public Law 99-371).
The early faculty and students of the Utah School for the Deaf formed a strong connection with Gallaudet University. The Utah Eagle magazine, Eaglet publications, and the UAD Bulletin featured Gallaudet College.
The early faculty and students of the Utah School for the Deaf formed a strong connection with Gallaudet University. The Utah Eagle magazine, Eaglet publications, and the UAD Bulletin featured Gallaudet College.
The Establishment of Gallaudet University
Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet was the first in the United States to advocate for Deaf students' education. Gallaudet established the first school for the Deaf in Hartford, Connecticut, with the support of Laurent Clerc, a bright Deaf man from Paris, France. Gallaudet was a Deaf friend, teacher, and benefactor of the Deaf community (Burdett, The Utah Eagle, December 1954).
Edward Miner Gallaudet, Gallaudet's son, was likewise interested in Deaf Education. He was the first superintendent of the Columbia Institution for the Instruction of the Deaf, Deaf, founded by Amos Kendall in 1857. Kendall and Gallaudet envisioned establishing a Deaf college.
They were determined to make such a vision a reality. However, their proposal to Congress to allow the school to award college degrees was not simple. Even though Congress was dealing with major and important issues daily at the time, several members of Congress saw the wisdom of the younger Gallaudet's proposal. On April 8, 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Act after it was approved by Congress (Elstad, The Utah Eagle, December 1954).
The Columbia Institution for the Deaf and Dumb was shortly renamed the National Deaf-Mute College, and a collegiate division was established (Elstad, The Utah Eagle, December 1954).
The National Deaf-Mute College, as the world's only Deaf-Mute liberal arts university, was designed for Deaf and hard of hearing students who had struggled to reach satisfactory progress in other colleges or universities. The mission of the National Deaf-Mute College was to provide students with liberal arts education and to prepare them to become self-sufficient, productive citizens capable of entering professional or vocational fields following graduation (Elstad, The Utah Eagle, December 1954).
Edward Miner Gallaudet, Gallaudet's son, was likewise interested in Deaf Education. He was the first superintendent of the Columbia Institution for the Instruction of the Deaf, Deaf, founded by Amos Kendall in 1857. Kendall and Gallaudet envisioned establishing a Deaf college.
They were determined to make such a vision a reality. However, their proposal to Congress to allow the school to award college degrees was not simple. Even though Congress was dealing with major and important issues daily at the time, several members of Congress saw the wisdom of the younger Gallaudet's proposal. On April 8, 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Act after it was approved by Congress (Elstad, The Utah Eagle, December 1954).
The Columbia Institution for the Deaf and Dumb was shortly renamed the National Deaf-Mute College, and a collegiate division was established (Elstad, The Utah Eagle, December 1954).
The National Deaf-Mute College, as the world's only Deaf-Mute liberal arts university, was designed for Deaf and hard of hearing students who had struggled to reach satisfactory progress in other colleges or universities. The mission of the National Deaf-Mute College was to provide students with liberal arts education and to prepare them to become self-sufficient, productive citizens capable of entering professional or vocational fields following graduation (Elstad, The Utah Eagle, December 1954).
View of Gallaudet University @ dcist.com
During the junior and senior years, students could earn a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree, specializing in one of the following departments: mathematics, chemistry, biology, history, and political science, economics and sociology, English, art, education, home economics, and library science (Elstad, The Utah Eagle, December 1954).
Students were expected to take English composition during the first three years of college. They were also required to take communication courses to improve their speech, speechreading, and hearing to the maximum, as well as other forms of communication helpful to deaf people.
The National Deaf-Mute College launched a teacher-training program in 1891, but only hearing students were allowed. Deaf people who wished to teach were not allowed to enroll in the graduate program emphasizing Deaf Education, which was ironic. Nevertheless, many Deaf graduates continued to teach and run public schools for deaf students. By the twenty-first century, deaf and hearing students were accepted into the School of Education (US History Encyclopedia: Gallaudet University).
Students were expected to take English composition during the first three years of college. They were also required to take communication courses to improve their speech, speechreading, and hearing to the maximum, as well as other forms of communication helpful to deaf people.
The National Deaf-Mute College launched a teacher-training program in 1891, but only hearing students were allowed. Deaf people who wished to teach were not allowed to enroll in the graduate program emphasizing Deaf Education, which was ironic. Nevertheless, many Deaf graduates continued to teach and run public schools for deaf students. By the twenty-first century, deaf and hearing students were accepted into the School of Education (US History Encyclopedia: Gallaudet University).
Students from Utah School for the Deaf are the first to attend the National Deaf-Mute College
On June 8, 1897, Elizabeth DeLong, known as "Libbie," and John H. Clark were the only two students (they were cousins) from the Utah School for the Deaf to graduate (The Ogden Standard-Examiner, May 8, 1897). They became the first students from Utah to enter Gallaudet College in the fall of 1897.
Libbie and John H. were accompanied by Frank M. Driggs, superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf and the Blind, on September 15, 1897, to Gallaudet College, where they would begin their first year of a four-year course of study. While doing so, he was enrolled in a one-year teacher training program at the university (The Ogden Standard-Examiner, September 15, 1897). If it had not been for Driggs' presence, Libbie and John H. would not have had the opportunity to travel such a long distance.
Libbie and John H. were accompanied by Frank M. Driggs, superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf and the Blind, on September 15, 1897, to Gallaudet College, where they would begin their first year of a four-year course of study. While doing so, he was enrolled in a one-year teacher training program at the university (The Ogden Standard-Examiner, September 15, 1897). If it had not been for Driggs' presence, Libbie and John H. would not have had the opportunity to travel such a long distance.
Elizabeth DeLong @ FamilySearch
John H. Clark at Gallaudet Ole Gym
Elizabeth DeLong and her classmates at Gallaudet College
Elizabeth Delong is shown here in the center of the photo
This photograph of Elizabeth DeLong was discovered in the Gallaudet University Archives by Dr. Karen Christie, a professor emeritus at NTID/RIT who has taught English, Deaf Women Studies, and ASL & Deaf literature. Elizabeth DeLong is included on Dr. Christie's "Herstories of Deaf Women" website, which contains additional information about her.
Elizabeth DeLong and John H. Clark work for
Gallaudet University's Buff and Blue Newspaper
Gallaudet University's Buff and Blue Newspaper
The United States government provided financial assistance for Libbie's college education (Banks & Banks). At Gallaudet, she was active in the areas of acting and writing.
While at Gallaudet, John H. was an excellent student who participated in various sports and maintained a fashionable appearance. He was an assistant coach for the Gallaudet College football team (The Silent Worker, December 1900). While still in his senior year, he was elected editor-in-chief of the college publication, The Buff and Blue, and he also contributed stories to the publication. Libbie, a senior, was appointed as an associate editor (The Ogden Standard-Examiner, June 19, 1901; Dr. Thomas C. Clark, personal communication, November 13, 2008). As stated in a 1901 article in the Ogden Standard-Examiner, "Being elected editor-in-chief of a college paper has always been considered one of the highest honors, and it is of special note that Utah students obtain two of the positions (1.)."
While at Gallaudet, John H. was an excellent student who participated in various sports and maintained a fashionable appearance. He was an assistant coach for the Gallaudet College football team (The Silent Worker, December 1900). While still in his senior year, he was elected editor-in-chief of the college publication, The Buff and Blue, and he also contributed stories to the publication. Libbie, a senior, was appointed as an associate editor (The Ogden Standard-Examiner, June 19, 1901; Dr. Thomas C. Clark, personal communication, November 13, 2008). As stated in a 1901 article in the Ogden Standard-Examiner, "Being elected editor-in-chief of a college paper has always been considered one of the highest honors, and it is of special note that Utah students obtain two of the positions (1.)."
John H. Clark (right) at Gallaudet campus
Elizabeth DeLong, a student at Gallaudet College, about 1902. The DeLong Family Saga
Libbie was the first female bachelor's degree graduate in Utah in 1902 and the first in her family to complete a college education. On September 3, 1902, she returned to Ogden from Washington, D.C., and began teaching at the Utah School for the Deaf. She stayed in the job for fifteen years (Banks & Banks). She is believed to be the first Deaf teacher at that school with a bachelor's degree.
Libbie's cousin, John H., graduated from Gallaudet College in 1902 with a major in mathematics. Percival Hall, Gallaudet College's second president, personally tutored him. John H. eventually completed his master's degree in science on June 7, 1924 (Dr. Thomas C. Clark, personal communication, November 13, 2008).
Lillian Swift of Salt Lake City and Elmo V. Kemp of Safford, Arizona, joined Libbie and John H. at Gallaudet College. Many more alums of the Utah School for the Deaf went on to pursue their education and become contributing members of the community in Utah (The Utah Eagle, June 1906).
Libbie's cousin, John H., graduated from Gallaudet College in 1902 with a major in mathematics. Percival Hall, Gallaudet College's second president, personally tutored him. John H. eventually completed his master's degree in science on June 7, 1924 (Dr. Thomas C. Clark, personal communication, November 13, 2008).
Lillian Swift of Salt Lake City and Elmo V. Kemp of Safford, Arizona, joined Libbie and John H. at Gallaudet College. Many more alums of the Utah School for the Deaf went on to pursue their education and become contributing members of the community in Utah (The Utah Eagle, June 1906).
Utahns at Gallaudet College in 1937
Utahns at Gallaudet College, 1937. Front Row (L-R): Verl Thorup, Joseph Burnett, Dolores Atkinson, Rodney Walker and Earl Jones. Back Row (L-R): John Glassett, Ned Wheeler, Earl Rogerson, Bob Sanderson, Robert Lewis and Kyle Workman
Rodney W. Walker, Gallaudet alumnus of 1939 noted in his "My Life Story" book that the highest number of Utahns at Gallaudet College was eleven in the fall of 1936 and has never been surpassed since (Walker, 2006). Other prominent Gallaudet graduates of Utah were Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, Kenneth C. Burdett, Ned C. Wheeler, Joseph Burnett, and Rodney W. Walker.
Did You Know?
Women were not allowed to attend Gallaudet College until 1887, although it was founded in 1864 (US History Encyclopedia: Gallaudet University).
Gallaudet College Admission
Many parents of Deaf students at Utah School for the Deaf were occasionally anxious for their children to have a college degree at Gallaudet College. USD informed the parents that any student who can attend college is encouraged to do so.
More than 150 students nationwide sat the entrance exams in 1946. Only 40 students were selected for the program. Students had to be familiar with mathematic concepts and have a good understanding of English to be admitted to the college.
Teachers in eleventh and twelfth-grade classrooms at USD could assess whether students would pass the Gallaudet College entrance exams. After evaluating the exam papers, the college administration decided whether or not the student should be admitted.
Not every high school graduate had the requisite qualifications to attend college. Most students could secure vocational training that enabled them to earn a living and live comfortably (Louriteen, The Utah Eagle, February 1947).
More than 150 students nationwide sat the entrance exams in 1946. Only 40 students were selected for the program. Students had to be familiar with mathematic concepts and have a good understanding of English to be admitted to the college.
Teachers in eleventh and twelfth-grade classrooms at USD could assess whether students would pass the Gallaudet College entrance exams. After evaluating the exam papers, the college administration decided whether or not the student should be admitted.
Not every high school graduate had the requisite qualifications to attend college. Most students could secure vocational training that enabled them to earn a living and live comfortably (Louriteen, The Utah Eagle, February 1947).
Kate Orr Keeley, a Standout Athlete at Gallaudet College
Kate Orr Keeley. Gallaudet University Historical Photograph Collection
Dr. Karen Christie, an amateur historian, compiled and authored a brief history of Utah's Kate Orr Keeley. Kate, never married, graduated from Gallaudet College in 1916 after attending the Utah School for the Deaf from 1898 to 1908. She was a standout athlete at Gallaudet, excelling in gymnastics, tennis, basketball, and swimming. Kate's story can be found in further detail on Dr. Christie's "Herstories of Deaf Women" website.
The Unexpected Cancellation of Gallaudet Banquet
Gallaudet Banquet was founded in 1944 to bring Utah Gallaudet graduates together for the first time. On December 5, 1946, approximately twenty Gallaudetians and their wives gathered at the Hotel Newhouse in Salt Lake City for the Third Annual Gallaudet Banquet. Boyd E. Nelson, superintendent of the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, spoke at the banquet on "Bushnell and Its Relation to Our School."
Superintendent Nelson's address ended with a suggestion to cancel the Gallaudet banquet at a short business meeting, which caught Gallaudetians off guard. They believed the debate had come to an end. The plan was voted on and passed before they had time to compose their thoughts.
Gallaudet 34' Kenneth C. Burdett voiced his disappointment at the cancellation of the Gallaudet banquet. "It was a sad thought, and Gallaudetians questioned why some people couldn't be content with a simple gathering without making it the subject of speculation, without twisting and turning the poor simple idea of the first feast until it had lost its original shape and function," he said (Burdett, The Utah Eagle, January 1947).
Like many other Gallaudetians, Kenneth Burdett held a strong attachment to Gallaudet College and looked forward to the banquet each year to relive their good memories. However, they were aware that some did not share their viewpoints and that those who did.
Superintendent Nelson's address ended with a suggestion to cancel the Gallaudet banquet at a short business meeting, which caught Gallaudetians off guard. They believed the debate had come to an end. The plan was voted on and passed before they had time to compose their thoughts.
Gallaudet 34' Kenneth C. Burdett voiced his disappointment at the cancellation of the Gallaudet banquet. "It was a sad thought, and Gallaudetians questioned why some people couldn't be content with a simple gathering without making it the subject of speculation, without twisting and turning the poor simple idea of the first feast until it had lost its original shape and function," he said (Burdett, The Utah Eagle, January 1947).
Like many other Gallaudetians, Kenneth Burdett held a strong attachment to Gallaudet College and looked forward to the banquet each year to relive their good memories. However, they were aware that some did not share their viewpoints and that those who did.
Kenneth C. Burdett, 1934 Gallaudet College Senior
In the Utah Deaf community, there was a "University Club." It can't possibly be the Gallaudet banquet. Gallaudetians, according to Kenneth C. Burdett, had seen the opposition's reasoning and had submitted to them in the name of unity. Still, they would not give up their treasured memories or yearn for the happiest years of their life (Burdett, The Utah Eagle, January 1947). The Beehive (Utah) Chapter of the Gallaudet College Alumni Association (BCGUAA) was founded in 1972 by members living in Utah. The goal of forming the chapter, according to Rodney W. Walker, a Gallaudet class of 1939, was for former students to recognize Gallaudet College as their alma mater, to see how they were doing in their life, and to provide more fellowship with one another (Walker, 2006).
Rodney W. Walker. The UAD Bulletin, April 1955
Barbara Schell Bass, Gallaudet President
of the Student Body Government
of the Student Body Government
Barbara Schell Bass @ Gallaudet University Museum
Barbara Schell Bass, a long-serving teacher at the Utah School for the Deaf, graduated from the Idaho School for the Deaf in 1956 and Gallaudet University in 1960. She was the first woman elected to Student Body Government (SBG) during her senior year in 1959. It was also the first SBG election in which everyone voted (Courtesy of the Gallaudet University Museum). As a result, Utah is proud to have Barbara as Gallaudet University's first female SBG president.
Gallaudet University Protest of 1988
There was never a Deaf president of Gallaudet University since its founding in 1864. On August 24, 1987, when Jerry Lee, the University's sixth president, announced his resignation, a new president was needed. This position got sixty-seven applicants, nine of them were Deaf. By February 1988, the Gallaudet Board of Trustees had narrowed the selection to three applicants, one of them was Dr. Elisabeth A. Zinser, a hearing woman. Dr. Harvey J. Corson and Dr. I. K. Jordan were the two Deaf candidates (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995).
On March 1, 1988, a rally was conducted on the Gallaudet University football field by the Deaf President Now committee, also known as "The Duck." A group of young Gallaudet alumni gathered to encourage alums, students, faculty, and staff and push the board of trustees to name a Deaf person as the University's next president. More than 1,500 people attended the rally. Flyers were given at the event, which drew a lot of attention. According to the fliers, a Roman Catholic was elected president of Notre Dame in 1942, a woman was elected president of Wellesley College in 1875, a Jewish person was elected president of Yeshiva University in 1886, and a black person was elected president of Howard University in 1926. According to the fliers, "the Gallaudet University president belongs to a DEAF person in 1988" (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995). Students realized the importance of having a Deaf president during the event (Gannon, 1987).
The event drew national attention, and an article about it was published in the Washington Times and the Washington Post Metropolitan to raise public awareness of the presidential search. Gallaudet University received hundreds of letters from politicians, alums, individuals, and other organizations between March 2 and 5, 1988. They pushed for a Deaf president to be chosen by the board of trustees. Greg Hlibok, the president of the Student Body Government and one of the four Gallaudet student leaders of the Deaf President Now, wrote to Dr. Zinser, requesting that she resign as a presidential candidate. She had been "warned" that if she were elected president, the students would not support her (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995).
On March 1, 1988, a rally was conducted on the Gallaudet University football field by the Deaf President Now committee, also known as "The Duck." A group of young Gallaudet alumni gathered to encourage alums, students, faculty, and staff and push the board of trustees to name a Deaf person as the University's next president. More than 1,500 people attended the rally. Flyers were given at the event, which drew a lot of attention. According to the fliers, a Roman Catholic was elected president of Notre Dame in 1942, a woman was elected president of Wellesley College in 1875, a Jewish person was elected president of Yeshiva University in 1886, and a black person was elected president of Howard University in 1926. According to the fliers, "the Gallaudet University president belongs to a DEAF person in 1988" (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995). Students realized the importance of having a Deaf president during the event (Gannon, 1987).
The event drew national attention, and an article about it was published in the Washington Times and the Washington Post Metropolitan to raise public awareness of the presidential search. Gallaudet University received hundreds of letters from politicians, alums, individuals, and other organizations between March 2 and 5, 1988. They pushed for a Deaf president to be chosen by the board of trustees. Greg Hlibok, the president of the Student Body Government and one of the four Gallaudet student leaders of the Deaf President Now, wrote to Dr. Zinser, requesting that she resign as a presidential candidate. She had been "warned" that if she were elected president, the students would not support her (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995).
Four student leaders of the Deaf President Now protest L-R: Tim Raurus, Bridgetta Bourne-Firl, Greg Hlibok, and Jerry Covell—leading protestors at Gallaudet University in March of 1988. Photo: Courtesy of Gallaudet University Library Deaf Collections and Archives
At the Mayflower Hotel on March 5, the board of trustees interviewed the final three candidates: Dr. Zinser, Dr. Carson, and Dr. Jordan. Because of the rally, students, faculty, staff, and alums anticipated them to elect a Deaf president. The board of trustees, however, voted ten to four in favor of Dr. Zinser during the meeting. Deaf members of the board voted for Dr. Jordan. They couldn't believe it when Dr. Zinser won the vote (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995).
Despite this, the Gallaudet Board of Trustees chose Dr. Zinser, a vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of North Carolina in Greensboro, to lead the university. Her qualifications for the position were excellent, but she had no experience in deaf issues and could not communicate using sign language. The staff, faculty, students, and alums of Gallaudet University were shocked to learn that a hearing person had been chosen as the new president over two Deaf candidates (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995). At the hotel, Jane Bassett Spilman, chairman of the board of trustees, observed, "Deaf people were not yet able to function in the hearing world" (Sacks, 1988). Her snide statement infuriated the Deaf community. They demanded that Dr. Zinser be replaced as soon as possible with a Deaf president.
Despite this, the Gallaudet Board of Trustees chose Dr. Zinser, a vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of North Carolina in Greensboro, to lead the university. Her qualifications for the position were excellent, but she had no experience in deaf issues and could not communicate using sign language. The staff, faculty, students, and alums of Gallaudet University were shocked to learn that a hearing person had been chosen as the new president over two Deaf candidates (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995). At the hotel, Jane Bassett Spilman, chairman of the board of trustees, observed, "Deaf people were not yet able to function in the hearing world" (Sacks, 1988). Her snide statement infuriated the Deaf community. They demanded that Dr. Zinser be replaced as soon as possible with a Deaf president.
Jane Bassett Spilman @ British Deaf News
A protest erupted the next day, March 7. The students took over the entire campus and shut it down. They barricaded all campus doors, preventing anyone from entering the school. It marked the start of the Deaf Revolution and the famous Deaf President Now protest. Alums, students, faculty, and the national Deaf community were all united in their desire to have a Deaf person lead the world's only Deaf university, Gallaudet University. The protest lasted a week, ending on March 13 (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995).
Alumni and the United States Congress, which contributed seventy-five percent of the university's budget, responded with a nationwide outpouring of support for the protest. The Board of Trustees was also summoned to address the issue of choosing a new president. Dr. Robert Sanderson, Dr. Frank Sullivan, and Phil Bravin, all Deaf members of the Gallaudet University Board of Trustees, formally reaffirmed their support for a Deaf president and opposed the selection of a hearing president (UAD Bulletin, April 1988).
In those circumstances, the students refused to reopen the school unless the board of trustees met their four demands. The demands were as follows:
Alumni and the United States Congress, which contributed seventy-five percent of the university's budget, responded with a nationwide outpouring of support for the protest. The Board of Trustees was also summoned to address the issue of choosing a new president. Dr. Robert Sanderson, Dr. Frank Sullivan, and Phil Bravin, all Deaf members of the Gallaudet University Board of Trustees, formally reaffirmed their support for a Deaf president and opposed the selection of a hearing president (UAD Bulletin, April 1988).
In those circumstances, the students refused to reopen the school unless the board of trustees met their four demands. The demands were as follows:
- Zinser's resignation and selection of a Deaf president,
- The chairperson of the board of trustees, Jane Bassett Spilman, resign,
- Increase in Deaf representation on the board to 51%, and lastly,
- There be no reprisals against the protestors.
Gallaudet students rally at the U.S. Capitol Building in March of 1988. Photo: Courtesy of Gallaudet University Library Deaf Collections and Archives
The board, on the other hand, rejected all four demands. Spilman said Dr. Zinser would be an excellent president if the students let her. More than 1,000 students marched to the Capitol, led by four student leaders: Greg Hlibok, Jerry Covell, Tim Rarus, and Bridgetta Bourne (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995).
Alums, students, faculty, and the national Deaf community were unwilling to give up their demands until they were met. Finally, on March 13, the board met for a meeting at the Embassy Row Hotel. Audiences waited outside the meeting for nine hours, awaiting the board's announcement. By the end of the meeting, Phil Bravin, a Deaf member of the board of trustees, called Greg Hlibok through TTY to report that all four demands had been met and that Bravin had taken over as Chair of the Board following Jane Spilman's resignation. Gallaudet's first Deaf president was Dr. I. King Jordan, a Gallaudet faculty member. There was a 51% increase in Deaf representation on the board, with no retaliation for the students and faculty activists (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995).
Alums, students, faculty, and the national Deaf community were unwilling to give up their demands until they were met. Finally, on March 13, the board met for a meeting at the Embassy Row Hotel. Audiences waited outside the meeting for nine hours, awaiting the board's announcement. By the end of the meeting, Phil Bravin, a Deaf member of the board of trustees, called Greg Hlibok through TTY to report that all four demands had been met and that Bravin had taken over as Chair of the Board following Jane Spilman's resignation. Gallaudet's first Deaf president was Dr. I. King Jordan, a Gallaudet faculty member. There was a 51% increase in Deaf representation on the board, with no retaliation for the students and faculty activists (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995).
Irving King Jordan @ Wikipedia
As can be seen, the movement had an impact. Alumni, students, faculty, and members of the national Deaf community all collaborated to guarantee that their civil rights were safeguarded. They were backed up by the media, which included newspapers, radio, and television. They also garnered backing from presidential candidates, labor unions, and national organizations. They were victorious and showed that they did not have to give up control of their lives to society. It was a significant triumph (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995).
Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, a member of the Gallaudet Board of Trustees, meets with President Bill Clinton
At the Gallaudet University commencement in 1994, Dr. Robert G. Sanderson shakes hands with US President Bill Clinton
Dr. Robert G. Sanderson was a Gallaudet Board of Trustees member during the Deaf President Now Protest at Gallaudet University in 1988. He advocated a Deaf president for the university over a hearing president. As a result, Dr. I. King Jordan was eventually appointed as Gallaudet University's first Deaf president (UAD Bulletin, April 1988). At the 1994 Gallaudet University graduation, Dr. Robert G. Sanderson shakes hands with US President Bill Clinton.
A Principle of Fair Representation
In the June 1989 issue of the Utah Association for the Deaf Bulletin, Mabel Bell, a pseudonym used by Ron Nelson, then a board member of the Utah Association for the Deaf, authored and published his thoughts on the notion of fair representation, a year after the 1988 Gallaudet Protest. A broad protest, Ron explained, is essentially an example of their day's call for "fair representation." Despite the length of his article, he highlighted some excellent points that the Utah Deaf community should investigate to educate our community and push for fair representation.
Deaf President Now protestors at Gallaudet University rallied for "fair representation." As the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson stated, "It was a victory for all people who have felt the pain of being...unrepresented." After watching media coverage of the Gallaudet University protest, Ron recognized that the lack of fair representation was also prevalent in Utah, and the situation was similar. According to his observation, every program created by legislators or state agencies that affected the Deaf community was administered and operated by hearing people. "They acted as if they were in a position of Godhood." As though they knew best, they have and continue to make decisions and policies that affect the Deaf community and future Deaf community members. They didn't think it was necessary to inquire about the Deaf community's programs, problems, or potential solutions. Some even went to deaf events, expecting deaf people to jump for joy since they were such good "mothers." In reality, they did more harm than good in developing competence, independence, and pride, as true mothers should (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2).
Deaf President Now protestors at Gallaudet University rallied for "fair representation." As the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson stated, "It was a victory for all people who have felt the pain of being...unrepresented." After watching media coverage of the Gallaudet University protest, Ron recognized that the lack of fair representation was also prevalent in Utah, and the situation was similar. According to his observation, every program created by legislators or state agencies that affected the Deaf community was administered and operated by hearing people. "They acted as if they were in a position of Godhood." As though they knew best, they have and continue to make decisions and policies that affect the Deaf community and future Deaf community members. They didn't think it was necessary to inquire about the Deaf community's programs, problems, or potential solutions. Some even went to deaf events, expecting deaf people to jump for joy since they were such good "mothers." In reality, they did more harm than good in developing competence, independence, and pride, as true mothers should (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2).
Ron Nelson
"The Gallaudet Board of Trustees, who chose Dr. Zinser as the new president, is a classic example of such people," Ron remarked. A fitting description of such people, hearing "mothers," was given by Dr. Harlan Lane, author of When The Mind Hears, who states about the board of trustees, "They want to be the benefactor." The whole attitude of benevolence was that "I am better than you' and 'I am helping you." That says, 'I don't need to learn your views, mine are better.'" Conversely, Ron emphasized this by saying, "the Deaf community needs programs that will help them develop their skills, talents, and leadership so that they can take control of their own future, well trained and highly educated." They can guide the Deaf community on a straight track to benefit them in the long run. Regrettably, the existing programs have fallen short of their goals (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2).
Ron learned that one of the moral questions addressed during the week of the Deaf President Now protest was, "Deaf people need to take care of themselves." Why bother giving us more education if we'll never be able to put it to good use?" "It's long past time for Gallaudet to have a Deaf president as evidence that Deaf people can rule themselves," Truman Stelle, a member of the Gallaudet faculty, said (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2-3; UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2-3; UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2-3). On the other hand, Ron had a moral question for other Utah agencies that influenced Deaf student's education, such as Vocational Rehabilitation and the State Board of Education: Deaf people must take care of themselves. "Why aren't you training Deaf students and those who wish to continue their education so they can take your places and care for their own people?" he said. "Why aren't you hiring qualified deaf people to administer those programs that directly affect the Deaf community?" (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3).
Ron learned that one of the moral questions addressed during the week of the Deaf President Now protest was, "Deaf people need to take care of themselves." Why bother giving us more education if we'll never be able to put it to good use?" "It's long past time for Gallaudet to have a Deaf president as evidence that Deaf people can rule themselves," Truman Stelle, a member of the Gallaudet faculty, said (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2-3; UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2-3; UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2-3). On the other hand, Ron had a moral question for other Utah agencies that influenced Deaf student's education, such as Vocational Rehabilitation and the State Board of Education: Deaf people must take care of themselves. "Why aren't you training Deaf students and those who wish to continue their education so they can take your places and care for their own people?" he said. "Why aren't you hiring qualified deaf people to administer those programs that directly affect the Deaf community?" (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3).
Dennis Platt, a member of the Utah Schools for the Deaf and Blind's Institutional Council and an active member of the Deaf community, was the only Deaf person in a state-level position at the time. According to Ron, the Utah School for the Deaf, like Gallaudet University, has been around for about a century. "How much longer will we put up with "low-class" slavery and enable hearing people to ride on our backs?" he said. "The time has come for the plantation mindset that has dominated our institution and others serving the Deaf for so long to end," says Dr. Allen Sussman, a Gallaudet faculty member. "The period of hearing people deciding what's 'best' for deaf people is over," Leonard F. Navrat agreed (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2–3).
Dennis Platt
The 'Deaf President Now' week at Gallaudet University, according to Ron, was not the end. It was merely the start, an obvious and critical first step. He reinforced a point with the phrase, "It is up to the Deaf community to press on and use current public awareness to advance their cases. Lou Ann Walker, in "I Know How to Ask for What I Want," "Parade Magazine," April 23, 1989, quoted a Deaf teacher's explanation for why qualified Deaf persons were not being put in advisory positions. Ron clearly said, "Hearing people don't want to give up the power" (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3). He believed that most hearing administrators would refuse to surrender their power to make decisions that affect the Utah Deaf community. He advised that the sooner we realize this, the sooner we can act decisively to take control of our futures with wisdom, rather than waiting and hoping hearing people will "understand our needs" (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3).
"It was long past time for the Deaf community to be given the opportunity to make decisions and be involved in issues that affect their lives," Ron concluded. Likewise, it was long past time for the Deaf community to have a say in decisions that impacted its future and leaders. "I feel it is time for a new perspective, one that only a Deaf person can offer," Dr. Harvey J. Corson, Superintendent of the Louisiana School for the Deaf, said in a statement (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3).
"How can hearing people continue to make decisions for the Deaf community without providing them with fair representation and constructive feedback and expect them to be happy?" Ron was puzzled. It's no surprise that the Deaf community is yelling, "FAIR REPRESENTATION!" (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2).
Accordingly, Ron urged local and state agencies to learn from the mistake of the Gallaudet University Board of Trustees and not repeat it, as stated by Congressman Barney (D-Mass), "For the trustees to turn away from the entirely reasonable request of the students that a deaf individual be appointed as president of that college is a very unfortunate expression of insensitivity." "The problem there was the attitudes of hearing people," stated Ruth Ann Leach, a columnist for the "Nashville Banner." Similarly, Reverend Jesse L. Jackson said, "The problem is not that the students do not hear. The problem is that the hearing world does not listen" (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3).
"It was long past time for the Deaf community to be given the opportunity to make decisions and be involved in issues that affect their lives," Ron concluded. Likewise, it was long past time for the Deaf community to have a say in decisions that impacted its future and leaders. "I feel it is time for a new perspective, one that only a Deaf person can offer," Dr. Harvey J. Corson, Superintendent of the Louisiana School for the Deaf, said in a statement (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3).
"How can hearing people continue to make decisions for the Deaf community without providing them with fair representation and constructive feedback and expect them to be happy?" Ron was puzzled. It's no surprise that the Deaf community is yelling, "FAIR REPRESENTATION!" (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2).
Accordingly, Ron urged local and state agencies to learn from the mistake of the Gallaudet University Board of Trustees and not repeat it, as stated by Congressman Barney (D-Mass), "For the trustees to turn away from the entirely reasonable request of the students that a deaf individual be appointed as president of that college is a very unfortunate expression of insensitivity." "The problem there was the attitudes of hearing people," stated Ruth Ann Leach, a columnist for the "Nashville Banner." Similarly, Reverend Jesse L. Jackson said, "The problem is not that the students do not hear. The problem is that the hearing world does not listen" (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3).
Rev. Jesse Jackson @ Wikipedia
In this particular matter, Ron observed that the principle of fair representation for Deaf people was beginning to be recognized and applied on a national level. The United States Congress founded the Commission on Education for the Deaf to investigate the education of the deaf nationally. This committee included many Deaf individuals (UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3). "Can agencies at the local and state levels follow their example and begin to provide fair representation to the Deaf community in Utah?" he inquired. Following were some minor steps that had been taken:
- The Sign Language Committee, set up by the Utah School for the Deaf to study methods of communication used in the total communication program, comprised most Deaf members.
- The Commission on Education for the Deaf Committee, set up by the Institutional Council to review and discuss implementing recommendations proposed by the COED, had four Deaf members out of the sixteen on the committee (UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3).
The Commission on Education of the Deaf Book, February 1988
The following were some of the several other positions that have an effect on the Utah Deaf community and in which Ron would like to see qualified Deaf people in the near future:
To summarize, Ron encouraged members of the Deaf community to take the first step and stand up for what they believe in. "Talk to other Deaf individuals about your feelings and express them," he advised. Join one of the Deaf political organizations and MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Several organizations were in the area, including the Utah Association for the Deaf, the Utah Valley Chapter of the Deaf, and sports clubs, including the Utah Athletic Club of the Deaf and the Golden Spike Athletic Club of the Deaf, among others. It made no difference where you started. Whatever the case, the most important thing was to get started someplace and to speak out," he says (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 4).
In those circumstances, Ron made one excellent final point "that the hearing people were enjoying the fruits of fair representation. Allowing the Deaf community to partake in the same fruits should be a top priority for everyone. Finally, they should be given the freedom and opportunity to be in charge of their own lives and educational pursuits. Neither soon nor next year were appropriate times, but now was the time!" (1989, p. 4 in Bell, UAD Bulletin).
- Director of the Utah Community Center of the Deaf
- Director of DSDHI
- Coordinator of the Deaf programs in education
- Vocational Rehabilitation counselors
- More Deaf people on state committees for people with disabilities
- Administrators in religion
- State Board of Education
- Superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf, additional staff members, and teachers
- Director of a possible State Commission on Deafness (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3).
To summarize, Ron encouraged members of the Deaf community to take the first step and stand up for what they believe in. "Talk to other Deaf individuals about your feelings and express them," he advised. Join one of the Deaf political organizations and MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Several organizations were in the area, including the Utah Association for the Deaf, the Utah Valley Chapter of the Deaf, and sports clubs, including the Utah Athletic Club of the Deaf and the Golden Spike Athletic Club of the Deaf, among others. It made no difference where you started. Whatever the case, the most important thing was to get started someplace and to speak out," he says (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 4).
In those circumstances, Ron made one excellent final point "that the hearing people were enjoying the fruits of fair representation. Allowing the Deaf community to partake in the same fruits should be a top priority for everyone. Finally, they should be given the freedom and opportunity to be in charge of their own lives and educational pursuits. Neither soon nor next year were appropriate times, but now was the time!" (1989, p. 4 in Bell, UAD Bulletin).
- The final words from Ron were taken from Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, who said, "If your mind can conceive it and your heart can believe it, then you can achieve it" (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 4).
Old Dormitory at Gallaudet Uncovers Surprises
Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, a graduate of Gallaudet University's class of 1941 and a member of the university's Board of Trustees, published an article in the February 1992 issue of the UAD Bulletin about uncovering his engraved "Sandie, '41" in his College Hall dormitory room at Gallaudet University. Dr. Sanderson and a delegation from the Gallaudet University Board of Trustees paid a visit to the College Hall for the 50th Reunion of the Class of 1941, which took place during the week of October 21-26, 1991. At one point during their tour, he abruptly abandoned them in a second-floor dormitory room where he had been studying and dashed over to the edge of the window sill where he had scratched a message into a windowpane. "Sandie, '41," the etched words of Dr. Sanderson's mother were still visible on the wall.
Robert G. Sanderson, 1941 Gallaudet College Senior
"The renovation of College Hall at Gallaudet University revealed a number of secrets from the 114-year-old structure's past, including pedestals, domed ceilings, stained glass windows, and some mementos from schoolboys who lived in the building decades ago," Dr. Sanderson explained (Sanderson, UAD Bulletin, February 1992, p. 1).
Later, John Dunn, Project Supervisor for the renovation, removed the pane of glass and framed it in College Hall's original wood. He then presented it to Dr. Sanderson, who gave it to the Office of Alumni Relations for exhibition in "Ole Jim" (Sanderson, UAD Bulletin, February 1992).
Later, John Dunn, Project Supervisor for the renovation, removed the pane of glass and framed it in College Hall's original wood. He then presented it to Dr. Sanderson, who gave it to the Office of Alumni Relations for exhibition in "Ole Jim" (Sanderson, UAD Bulletin, February 1992).
Robert G. Sanderson at Gallaudet campus
Unity for Gallaudet of 2006
On May 1, 2006, Dr. Jane Fernandes, a Deaf woman, was named the ninth president of Gallaudet University. It took place shortly after Celia May Laramie Baldwin, an alumna of the Utah School for the Deaf (USD), an alumna and former teacher at USD, and interim chairperson of Gallaudet's Board of Trustees, announced Dr. Jane Fernandes as the university's ninth president. This move drew criticism from the Deaf community (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007).
Dr. Fernandes was chosen above two other Deaf presidential candidates, Dr. Stephen Weiner and Dr. Ronald Stern, who were also considered for the position.
Dr. Fernandes was chosen above two other Deaf presidential candidates, Dr. Stephen Weiner and Dr. Ronald Stern, who were also considered for the position.
Celia May Laramie Baldwin, a Newly Appointed
Board of Trustees Member at Gallaudet University
Board of Trustees Member at Gallaudet University
Celia May Laramie Baldwin, Board of Trustees Member at Gallaudet University
Gallaudet President I. King Jordan appointed Celia May Laramie Baldwin, a 1965 USD alumnus, to the Board of Trustees on December 2, 1998, ten years after the Deaf President Now Protest at Gallaudet University. "The University is extremely fortunate to have Ms. Baldwin on our Board of Trustees," stated Dr. Jordan, adding that "her expertise, experience, and enthusiasm in the field of deaf and hard of hearing education will be an asset to the board" (Kaila, 1998). She was a member of the board of directors for seven years.
At the time of Celia May Laramie Baldwin's announcement, Ryan Commerson, a Gallaudet graduate student and political activist (he was the plenary speaker at the 2009 Utah Association for the Deaf conference), expressed his disapproval of the new selection of Dr. Fernandes, the former provost, as the next president and walked out of the auditorium, where he was immediately removed by campus security officers (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007).
The students, under the influence of Ryan Commerson, also stormed out of the auditorium to remove Dr. Fernandes from his position. In May, Celia May Laramie Baldwin resigned from the Board of Trustees following strong personal threats directed at her by community members regarding the selection of the new president during this protest, which lasted approximately a week and a half (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). The students were compelled to return home for the summer following the end of the graduation ceremony. The protest died down.
The students, under the influence of Ryan Commerson, also stormed out of the auditorium to remove Dr. Fernandes from his position. In May, Celia May Laramie Baldwin resigned from the Board of Trustees following strong personal threats directed at her by community members regarding the selection of the new president during this protest, which lasted approximately a week and a half (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). The students were compelled to return home for the summer following the end of the graduation ceremony. The protest died down.
Ryan Commerson. Photo by D. Scott Clark
By the time the students returned to campus for the fall semester, they had resumed their protest, which had become increasingly intense. They took control of the campus buildings and shut down the campus for three days (Berke, 2014). Furthermore, the protest established the Faculty, Students, Staff, and Alumni Association (FSSA). FSSA represented each body, including minority organizations that President I disregarded. King Jordan and Provost Jane K. Fernandes throughout their tenures at the university (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). The three demands of the FSSA were similar to those of the Deaf President Now protest:
- Resignation of Dr. Jane Fernandes,
- Allow the presidential search process to re-open,
- There are no reprisals for protestors (Marsh, UAD Bulletin, November 2006).
Dr. Jane Fernandes. Photograph by Chris Hartlove for Boston.com
According to the FSSA, Dr. Fernandes was not the best candidate for the presidency because Gallaudet University was not performing well academically. Dr. Fernandes' tenure as provost was marked by concerns about the quality of education and the low graduation rate (Marsh, UAD Bulletin, November 2007; Berke, 2014). The FSSA also expressed dissatisfaction with her administrative policies and management style. As a result, Dr. Fernandes was deemed "unacceptable" by the faculty and the staff. Faculty voted "no confidence" in her following a faculty poll (Marsh, UAD Bulletin, November 2006). They objected that Dr. Fernandes was appointed provost without conducting a thorough search, and they believed the hiring process was flawed and unfair (Berke, 2014).
Also, on September 20, 2007, the Gallaudet Student Congress passed a resolution stating that Dr. Jane K. Fernandes should not be recognized as the ninth president of Gallaudet University (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). As the protest progressed, more and more issues came to light. It was realized that the protest had evolved into more than merely a protest against Dr. Fernandes but had also become a battle for the future of Gallaudet University. In addition, there was some discussion on whether or not this university should embrace ASL/English Bilingual Education (Berke, 2014).
Also, on September 20, 2007, the Gallaudet Student Congress passed a resolution stating that Dr. Jane K. Fernandes should not be recognized as the ninth president of Gallaudet University (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). As the protest progressed, more and more issues came to light. It was realized that the protest had evolved into more than merely a protest against Dr. Fernandes but had also become a battle for the future of Gallaudet University. In addition, there was some discussion on whether or not this university should embrace ASL/English Bilingual Education (Berke, 2014).
The Tent Rally in Salt Lake City, Utah, October 14, 2006
Despite the protests, the Board of Trustees continued to ignore the need to listen to hear what they were saying. The date of October 13, sometimes known as "Black Friday," represented a revolutionary change in Gallaudet history when more than 130 protestors were arrested for civil disobedience by the 6th Street gate. Dr. I. King Jordan, who was retiring, ordered the arrest. Tim Rarus, one of the four Gallaudet student leaders of the Deaf President Now, was arrested. Before being detained, he shouted, "I helped put you in office, now you're arresting me!" (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007).
Protestors block the main entrance of Gallaudet to protest Dr. Fernandes’s appointment. 134 students are arrested. Photo: Andrew Cutraro for The New York Times
"It is strange that I. King Jordan would begin and end his time as president at Gallaudet with two protests," Trenton Marsh, a Utah resident and 1991 graduate of the California School for the Deaf in Fremont, California, said. The Deaf President Now protest is the first step toward social equality for the Deaf community. "The current protest is proof that social equality did not truly happen," Marsh wrote in the UAD Bulletin in November 2006.
On October 21, 2006, over 4,000 people marched to Capitol Hill, just as the Deaf President Now protest did in 1988 (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007; Berke, 2014).
On October 21, 2006, over 4,000 people marched to Capitol Hill, just as the Deaf President Now protest did in 1988 (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007; Berke, 2014).
Trenton Marsh
During the protest, the students initially set up a "Tent City" on the Gallaudet University campus to assert their unity (Berke, 2014). Later on, it inspired the other states to have their own "Tent City" rally to show their support for the FSSA. In October 2006, Tent City took place in Salt Lake City and St. George, Utah.
Duane Kinner's tent with Joshua Kinner, age 5 standing to support the FSSA
Tent City in Salt Lake City, Utah
Throughout the day, around sixty people came to Tent City to support FSSA by purchasing hot dogs, chips, and drinks from the Henry C. White Educational Council, which was soon disbanded to join and support the Utah Association for the Deaf, selling them to raise money. In addition, the community of Salt Lake City donated $326.00 to the FSSA (Marsh, UAD Bulletin, November 2006). Among those in attendance was Rodney W. Walker, a member of the Gallaudet College Class of 1939 who was the oldest alumnus.
Rodney W. Walker, the oldest Gallaudet alumnus
Tent City was organized in St. George by Ronald Burdett and his wife, Joyanne K. Rasmus, both graduates of Gallaudet College's Class of 1970 and active in the Deaf community. There were a total of fourteen people who took part in Tent City. "How Gallaudet, as a result of the Deaf President Now in 1988, has helped make a world of difference for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing everywhere in the world," Joyanne said during the gathering (Burdett, UAD Bulletin, November 2009). The platform was next addressed by Ron Burdett, a son of Kenneth C. Burdett, a 1934 Gallaudet graduate, and brother-in-law of Phil Bravin, a Gallaudet's board of trustees member, who gave a brief history of the Deaf President Now and Unity for Gallaudet organizations. The particular insight was "both meaningful and inspirational," Joyanne remarked (Burdett, UAD Bulletin, November 2009, p. 7). Joyanne described the moment as "both touching and inspiring" (Burdett, UAD Bulletin, November 2009, p. 7). Deaf people across the country were glued to their computer screens, reading blogs and viewing video vlogs about the protest events, thanks to the advanced technology available.
Joyanne K. Rasmus & Ronald Burdett. The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1970
In the end, the Gallaudet University board of trustees realized that Dr. Fernandes would be unable to run the university effectively without the support of the university community, despite the protests that had been taking place for months at the time (Berke, 2014). As of October 29, 2006, Dr. Fernandes's position as president has ended (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). The FSSA had prevailed after a lengthy and challenging protest.
Dr. Robert Davila, a Deaf man with previous administration experience, was appointed as the "interim" president of Gallaudet University in early December 2006. He began serving in his new post immediately after being selected (he eventually became the ninth president of this university). Dr. Weiner was appointed as the new provost of the university. While working, Dr. Davila and Dr. Weiner "immediately addressed inadequacies and openly embraced bilingualism" (Berke, 2014).
Dr. Robert Davila, a Deaf man with previous administration experience, was appointed as the "interim" president of Gallaudet University in early December 2006. He began serving in his new post immediately after being selected (he eventually became the ninth president of this university). Dr. Weiner was appointed as the new provost of the university. While working, Dr. Davila and Dr. Weiner "immediately addressed inadequacies and openly embraced bilingualism" (Berke, 2014).
Dr. Robert R. Davila @ Gallaudet University
As a result of protests organized by the Unity for Gallaudet movement in June 2007, the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) placed Gallaudet University on probationary status. Consequently, the university was under increased pressure to improve academically and meet MSCHE standards, including admissions, leadership, integrity, and retention (Berke, 2014). During a meeting on June 27, 2008, the MSCHE reaffirmed Gallaudet University's accreditation (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). Taking office on January 1, 2010, Dr. T. Alan Hurwitz became the tenth president of Gallaudet University (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007).
Considering everything, what would have happened to Gallaudet University if the Unity for Gallaudet demonstration had not taken place? As previously said, the protest has helped improve the situation and placed Gallaudet University on a much more positive path. "People look up to Gallaudet University because it is a pillar of the Deaf community," said Dr. Hurwitz, dean of the National Technical Institute for the Deaf at the Rochester Institute of Technology. He also stated that he believed the dispute arose more from the selection process than a disagreement over Deaf culture (Durr, 2011).
Considering everything, what would have happened to Gallaudet University if the Unity for Gallaudet demonstration had not taken place? As previously said, the protest has helped improve the situation and placed Gallaudet University on a much more positive path. "People look up to Gallaudet University because it is a pillar of the Deaf community," said Dr. Hurwitz, dean of the National Technical Institute for the Deaf at the Rochester Institute of Technology. He also stated that he believed the dispute arose more from the selection process than a disagreement over Deaf culture (Durr, 2011).
Dr. T. Alan Hurwtiz @ Gallaudet University
Roberta J. "Bobbi" Cordano is Gallaudet University's 11th president. She is the fourth Deaf president of the university and the first Deaf female president. As the founder of two charter schools for Deaf and hard of hearing students in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, she campaigns for ASL/English Bilingual education. In the wake of the global Black Lives Matter movement in 2020, she is also committed to leading the university's comprehensive anti-racism initiative (Georgiadis, 2021).
Roberta J. “Bobbi” Cordano @ medium.com
Gallaudet University is regarded as a national beacon of light for the Deaf community, which includes the Utah Deaf community. Protests in support of Deaf President Now and Unity for Gallaudet University have significantly impacted the Deaf community. As a result, these historical events shaped the direction of civil rights and social progress.
A Slideshow of Utahns at Gallaudet College
A Slideshow of the "Unity for Gallaudet" Tent City in Salt Lake City, Utah,
October 14, 2006
Note
Dr. Thomas C. Clark, personal communication, November 13, 2008.
References
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