History of the
Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf
Written by Jodi Christel Becker
Published in 2019
Updated in 2026
Published in 2019
Updated in 2026
Author's Note
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Michelle Tanner, the Associate Superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf, for her invaluable assistance in gathering information and preparing a biography of Elizabeth "Libbie" DeLong. Nathan Harrison, your dedication and efforts in compiling the necessary materials to propose naming the Utah School for the Deaf in honor of Libbie are truly commendable.
Our collaborative efforts, including your invaluable contributions, have significantly contributed to the preservation and promotion of women's history in the state of Utah. Anne, your thorough research and the biography of Libbie from the Church History Library inspired me to write her biography for this history website and the Better Days 2020 site. Doug, your insightful research and interpretation of historical documents have enhanced our understanding of her story and provided a fresh perspective for our project. Together, we have made substantial contributions to the narrative of women's history in Utah. This collaboration not only highlights Libbie's remarkable life but also sheds light on the broader context of Deaf women's roles in shaping our Utah Deaf community. By sharing her experiences, we can inspire future generations to appreciate the vital contributions of women in history. A big thank you to both of you!
Libbie, who is featured on the Better Days 2020 website, is someone I truly admire. This platform highlights significant milestones in the suffrage movement, both in Utah and across the country, while promoting women's rights and the right to vote. It also showcases other trailblazing women, including Libbie, who have played vital roles in the state's history. Their stories exemplify the strength and determination of these women, celebrating their achievements to inspire future generations to lead and innovate.
Libbie was a remarkable figure in the Utah Deaf community, serving as the first female Deaf president of the Utah Association of the Deaf from 1909 to 1915. Her achievements have had a lasting impact, including being the first graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf, completing her studies in 1897, to attend Gallaudet College, where she graduated in 1902. Furthermore, Libbie became the first Deaf teacher with a college degree to teach at the Utah School for the Deaf. Her groundbreaking accomplishments and contributions have earned her significant recognition, and we should honor her dedicated service with a lasting legacy. Libbie's story serves as an inspiration for Deaf women in our community, showcasing their potential and promoting equality.
Thank you all once again!
Jodi Christel Becker
Our collaborative efforts, including your invaluable contributions, have significantly contributed to the preservation and promotion of women's history in the state of Utah. Anne, your thorough research and the biography of Libbie from the Church History Library inspired me to write her biography for this history website and the Better Days 2020 site. Doug, your insightful research and interpretation of historical documents have enhanced our understanding of her story and provided a fresh perspective for our project. Together, we have made substantial contributions to the narrative of women's history in Utah. This collaboration not only highlights Libbie's remarkable life but also sheds light on the broader context of Deaf women's roles in shaping our Utah Deaf community. By sharing her experiences, we can inspire future generations to appreciate the vital contributions of women in history. A big thank you to both of you!
Libbie, who is featured on the Better Days 2020 website, is someone I truly admire. This platform highlights significant milestones in the suffrage movement, both in Utah and across the country, while promoting women's rights and the right to vote. It also showcases other trailblazing women, including Libbie, who have played vital roles in the state's history. Their stories exemplify the strength and determination of these women, celebrating their achievements to inspire future generations to lead and innovate.
Libbie was a remarkable figure in the Utah Deaf community, serving as the first female Deaf president of the Utah Association of the Deaf from 1909 to 1915. Her achievements have had a lasting impact, including being the first graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf, completing her studies in 1897, to attend Gallaudet College, where she graduated in 1902. Furthermore, Libbie became the first Deaf teacher with a college degree to teach at the Utah School for the Deaf. Her groundbreaking accomplishments and contributions have earned her significant recognition, and we should honor her dedicated service with a lasting legacy. Libbie's story serves as an inspiration for Deaf women in our community, showcasing their potential and promoting equality.
Thank you all once again!
Jodi Christel Becker
Elizabeth DeLong. Source: FamilySearch.org
HONORING THE NAME OF THE SCHOOL
AFTER ELIZABETH DELONG
AFTER ELIZABETH DELONG
In 2019, the Utah School for the Deaf sought input from the local Deaf community to name their new ASL/English bilingual program at the USDB campus in Springville, Utah. The community chose to honor Elizabeth DeLong, a respected figure known for her strength and resilience within the Utah Deaf community. Libbie's contributions have significantly impacted the education and empowerment of Deaf individuals, encouraging many to embrace their identities and pursue their aspirations. Naming the program after her not only acknowledges her legacy but also highlights the importance of community participation in educational initiatives.
This initiative began with Nathan Harrison, a former Curriculum Director, who proposed naming the school after Elizabeth DeLong, inspired by Christel Becker's biography of Libbie. The proposal, emerging from community feedback, marks an important turning point in our shared journey and demonstrates the impact of our community. The input from our community has been instrumental in shaping our school's identity and the values we pass on to our students.
In October 2019, administrators from the Utah School for the Deaf, the Utah State Board of Education, and the USDB Advisory Council unanimously approved the proposal to name the ASL/English bilingual program the Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf, in honor of Libbie. This decision is a crucial turning point in our educational journey (Dr. Michelle Tanner, personal communication, February 8, 2024). This decision is a crucial turning point in our educational journey and recognizes her valuable contributions to the Utah Deaf community. It also motivates current and future generations to continue her mission of promoting inclusive education and bilingualism in ASL and English. Moving forward, we are dedicated to upholding her legacy and ensuring that every student feels empowered and supported in their learning experience.
This new program presents exciting opportunities for our students and represents a major milestone in Deaf education, paving the way for a more inclusive and promising future. This initiative not only acknowledges Libbie's contributions to the community but also inspires future generations of students and educators by providing them with role models and resources that promote inclusivity and engagement in Deaf education. By fostering bilingual environments, we are committed to enhancing communication, cultural understanding, and academic success for all learners in the Utah Deaf community.
This initiative began with Nathan Harrison, a former Curriculum Director, who proposed naming the school after Elizabeth DeLong, inspired by Christel Becker's biography of Libbie. The proposal, emerging from community feedback, marks an important turning point in our shared journey and demonstrates the impact of our community. The input from our community has been instrumental in shaping our school's identity and the values we pass on to our students.
In October 2019, administrators from the Utah School for the Deaf, the Utah State Board of Education, and the USDB Advisory Council unanimously approved the proposal to name the ASL/English bilingual program the Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf, in honor of Libbie. This decision is a crucial turning point in our educational journey (Dr. Michelle Tanner, personal communication, February 8, 2024). This decision is a crucial turning point in our educational journey and recognizes her valuable contributions to the Utah Deaf community. It also motivates current and future generations to continue her mission of promoting inclusive education and bilingualism in ASL and English. Moving forward, we are dedicated to upholding her legacy and ensuring that every student feels empowered and supported in their learning experience.
This new program presents exciting opportunities for our students and represents a major milestone in Deaf education, paving the way for a more inclusive and promising future. This initiative not only acknowledges Libbie's contributions to the community but also inspires future generations of students and educators by providing them with role models and resources that promote inclusivity and engagement in Deaf education. By fostering bilingual environments, we are committed to enhancing communication, cultural understanding, and academic success for all learners in the Utah Deaf community.
Michelle Tanner. Source: Twitter
The Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf officially opened its doors on January 6, 2020. The new name and identity celebrate our community and reflect our collective achievements, serving as a source of pride for everyone involved. Inspired by the early suffrage movement in Utah, Libbie pursued her academic, political, and spiritual goals, achieving several milestones, including becoming the first female president of the Utah Association of the Deaf. The school's new name honors her significant contributions to the community and symbolizes our shared accomplishments—a testament to our strength and resilience. This strength and resilience will remain an inspiration for future generations as they build upon the foundation laid by pioneers like Libbie. Together, we can foster an environment of inclusivity and empowerment, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued within our community.
The ASL/English bilingual program, now named in honor of Elizabeth DeLong, acknowledges her significant impact on the Utah Deaf community and the women's rights movement. This program not only honors her legacy but also plays an essential role in preserving the history of Deaf women and promoting equality. It ensures that every community member feels valued and included. In this spirit, we encourage active participation and collaboration to create opportunities for learning and growth. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant community that celebrates diversity and champions the rights of all individuals. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to progress and inclusivity. Thank you to everyone who contributed ideas and participated in this process!
The ASL/English bilingual program, now named in honor of Elizabeth DeLong, acknowledges her significant impact on the Utah Deaf community and the women's rights movement. This program not only honors her legacy but also plays an essential role in preserving the history of Deaf women and promoting equality. It ensures that every community member feels valued and included. In this spirit, we encourage active participation and collaboration to create opportunities for learning and growth. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant community that celebrates diversity and champions the rights of all individuals. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to progress and inclusivity. Thank you to everyone who contributed ideas and participated in this process!
Nathan Harrison. Source: Linkedin
Anne Leahy. Source: Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, inc.
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Doug Stringham. Source: Utah Valley University
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The Elizabeth DeLong Award
I want to take a moment to recognize Kim Lucas, President of the Utah Association of the Deaf. I'm incredibly grateful to have received the Elizabeth DeLong Award from her at the 2024 Utah Association of the Deaf conference. The significance of this award goes beyond the honor itself; it pays tribute to Elizabeth DeLong, a woman who dedicated her life to uplifting the Utah Deaf community. Her advocacy inspires me, and I'm dedicated to carrying on her legacy by supporting and empowering our community.
Having this award on my desk is a constant reminder of the essential work the Utah Association of the Deaf does for all of us. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Kim Lucas and the UAD officers for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts. We truly appreciate your dedication to advocating for the Utah Deaf community. Together, we can foster an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is heard and celebrated. Thank you for everything you do!
Having this award on my desk is a constant reminder of the essential work the Utah Association of the Deaf does for all of us. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Kim Lucas and the UAD officers for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts. We truly appreciate your dedication to advocating for the Utah Deaf community. Together, we can foster an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is heard and celebrated. Thank you for everything you do!
Jodi Becker Kinner's Elizabeth DeLong Award, 2024 (Name changed to Jodi Christel Becker in 2025)
Kim Lucas
Elizabeth DeLong Holds the Distinction
of Being the First Female President
of the Utah Association of the Deaf
of Being the First Female President
of the Utah Association of the Deaf
Elizabeth DeLong, affectionately known as "Libbie," was a pivotal figure in the Deaf community in Utah. She graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1897 and went on to become the first Utah graduate to earn a degree from Gallaudet College in 1902. Libbie made history by becoming the first Deaf teacher with a college degree to teach at her alma mater. Additionally, she served as the first female president of the Utah Association of the Deaf (UAD) from 1909 to 1915.
Libbie's election as president was not only a personal victory but also a turning point for the Deaf community in Utah. This event followed the establishment of the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) in 1880, which encouraged states like Utah to form their own chapters. Libbie played a crucial role in co-founding the UAD on June 10, 1909. Her leadership focused on advocating for the social welfare needs of Deaf individuals (Evans, 1999).
In a groundbreaking election held the day after the UAD's formation, Libbie faced two male candidates and triumphed, becoming the first female Deaf president of the Utah chapter and of any state chapter within the NAD on June 11, 1909. This victory symbolized a significant shift toward recognizing Deaf women's roles in leadership positions, even in the face of societal barriers such as a lack of voting rights and gender discrimination.
During this time, Deaf women encountered substantial challenges, including limited access to education and political rights. Libbie's presidency marked a turning point for the Deaf community as she advocated for educational and employment opportunities. Her journey began in 1901 when she joined Gallaudet College's secret support network for women, known as O.W.L.S., which is now recognized as Phi Kappa Zeta. She became president of this organization in the same year (The Buff and Blue, October 1901; This Week in 19th Amendment History: Agatha Tiegel Hanson, October 17, 1959).
O.W.L.S. aimed to address the barriers that Deaf women faced in the predominantly male environment at Gallaudet College (This Week in 19th Amendment History: Agatha Tiegel Hanson, October 17, 1959). This platform provided Libbie with a voice to advocate for women's rights, a cause she championed until the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, which granted women the right to vote. Her resilience in the face of social challenges, including discrimination and the struggle for political rights, was truly remarkable. For instance, Deaf women were not allowed to vote in NAD elections until 1964.
As a Deaf woman in a male-dominated society, Libbie faced additional barriers, including communication challenges and limited access to education, employment, and political opportunities. Her journey highlights the challenges faced by Deaf women, while her achievements showcase remarkable strength and resilience.
Libbie grew up in Utah, where women gained the right to vote through a law passed by the territorial legislature on February 14, 1870—seven years before her birth. Raised in an environment that valued civic duty and equality, she became a trailblazer for Deaf women in leadership positions. A strong supporter of women's suffrage, Libbie made significant contributions to both the Utah Deaf community and the broader women's rights movement, leaving an enduring legacy through her advocacy work.
Libbie's active involvement in Utah's early suffrage movement significantly influenced her educational, political, and spiritual aspirations. From 1909 to 1915, she served as the president of the Utah Association of the Deaf. At the end of her second term in 1915, she delivered a powerful speech at the UAD Convention (The Ogden Daily Standard, June 9, 1915; The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963). In her address, Libbie passionately advocated for women's suffrage, emphasizing the importance of women's voices in shaping the nation's future. Her commitment to advancing women's rights, despite societal challenges, demonstrated her resilience and left an indelible mark on the movement, inspiring many individuals even to this day.
Her efforts greatly improved the lives of Deaf individuals in Utah, particularly in bridging the gap between Deaf rights and women's rights. Libbie's leadership enhanced representation and equality, resulting in substantial advancements in social welfare, education, and employment opportunities for Deaf individuals. She fostered a sense of community and empowerment among Deaf women, breaking down barriers and promoting a more inclusive society. Her contributions underscore the necessity of support for Deaf rights and representation.
Libbie's legacy inspires us to confront the challenges women face and to appreciate the vital role of perseverance in pursuing equality and representation. Her achievements stand as a beacon for women within the Deaf community. One of our ASL/English bilingual schools, part of the Utah School for the Deaf, proudly bears the name of Elizabeth DeLong. We honor trailblazers like her for their contributions to creating a more inclusive future, particularly in advocating for the rights and recognition of individuals within the Deaf community.
Libbie passed away on September 25, 1931, in Flagstaff, Coconino County, Arizona, at the age of 54, from cancer.
Enclosed are photos of Libbie that provide a glimpse into her life as she grew up. Although she lost her hearing at the age of five, her life was far from tragic. Libbie achieved a great deal in her education, career, and contributions to the Utah Deaf community, particularly through her involvement with the Utah Association of the Deaf. Through her advocacy and leadership, she inspired many individuals within the Utah Deaf community, demonstrating that challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth and connection. Her journey is a testament to resilience and the power of community support. Enjoy viewing the pictures!
Libbie's election as president was not only a personal victory but also a turning point for the Deaf community in Utah. This event followed the establishment of the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) in 1880, which encouraged states like Utah to form their own chapters. Libbie played a crucial role in co-founding the UAD on June 10, 1909. Her leadership focused on advocating for the social welfare needs of Deaf individuals (Evans, 1999).
In a groundbreaking election held the day after the UAD's formation, Libbie faced two male candidates and triumphed, becoming the first female Deaf president of the Utah chapter and of any state chapter within the NAD on June 11, 1909. This victory symbolized a significant shift toward recognizing Deaf women's roles in leadership positions, even in the face of societal barriers such as a lack of voting rights and gender discrimination.
During this time, Deaf women encountered substantial challenges, including limited access to education and political rights. Libbie's presidency marked a turning point for the Deaf community as she advocated for educational and employment opportunities. Her journey began in 1901 when she joined Gallaudet College's secret support network for women, known as O.W.L.S., which is now recognized as Phi Kappa Zeta. She became president of this organization in the same year (The Buff and Blue, October 1901; This Week in 19th Amendment History: Agatha Tiegel Hanson, October 17, 1959).
O.W.L.S. aimed to address the barriers that Deaf women faced in the predominantly male environment at Gallaudet College (This Week in 19th Amendment History: Agatha Tiegel Hanson, October 17, 1959). This platform provided Libbie with a voice to advocate for women's rights, a cause she championed until the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, which granted women the right to vote. Her resilience in the face of social challenges, including discrimination and the struggle for political rights, was truly remarkable. For instance, Deaf women were not allowed to vote in NAD elections until 1964.
As a Deaf woman in a male-dominated society, Libbie faced additional barriers, including communication challenges and limited access to education, employment, and political opportunities. Her journey highlights the challenges faced by Deaf women, while her achievements showcase remarkable strength and resilience.
Libbie grew up in Utah, where women gained the right to vote through a law passed by the territorial legislature on February 14, 1870—seven years before her birth. Raised in an environment that valued civic duty and equality, she became a trailblazer for Deaf women in leadership positions. A strong supporter of women's suffrage, Libbie made significant contributions to both the Utah Deaf community and the broader women's rights movement, leaving an enduring legacy through her advocacy work.
Libbie's active involvement in Utah's early suffrage movement significantly influenced her educational, political, and spiritual aspirations. From 1909 to 1915, she served as the president of the Utah Association of the Deaf. At the end of her second term in 1915, she delivered a powerful speech at the UAD Convention (The Ogden Daily Standard, June 9, 1915; The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963). In her address, Libbie passionately advocated for women's suffrage, emphasizing the importance of women's voices in shaping the nation's future. Her commitment to advancing women's rights, despite societal challenges, demonstrated her resilience and left an indelible mark on the movement, inspiring many individuals even to this day.
Her efforts greatly improved the lives of Deaf individuals in Utah, particularly in bridging the gap between Deaf rights and women's rights. Libbie's leadership enhanced representation and equality, resulting in substantial advancements in social welfare, education, and employment opportunities for Deaf individuals. She fostered a sense of community and empowerment among Deaf women, breaking down barriers and promoting a more inclusive society. Her contributions underscore the necessity of support for Deaf rights and representation.
Libbie's legacy inspires us to confront the challenges women face and to appreciate the vital role of perseverance in pursuing equality and representation. Her achievements stand as a beacon for women within the Deaf community. One of our ASL/English bilingual schools, part of the Utah School for the Deaf, proudly bears the name of Elizabeth DeLong. We honor trailblazers like her for their contributions to creating a more inclusive future, particularly in advocating for the rights and recognition of individuals within the Deaf community.
Libbie passed away on September 25, 1931, in Flagstaff, Coconino County, Arizona, at the age of 54, from cancer.
Enclosed are photos of Libbie that provide a glimpse into her life as she grew up. Although she lost her hearing at the age of five, her life was far from tragic. Libbie achieved a great deal in her education, career, and contributions to the Utah Deaf community, particularly through her involvement with the Utah Association of the Deaf. Through her advocacy and leadership, she inspired many individuals within the Utah Deaf community, demonstrating that challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth and connection. Her journey is a testament to resilience and the power of community support. Enjoy viewing the pictures!
Elizabeth DeLong at a young age. Source: FamiilySearch.org
Elizabeth Delong standing on the far left pointing the finger at the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah, between 1896-1897
Elizabeth DeLong, a student at Gallaudet College, about 1902. Source: The Delong Family Saga
Elizabeth DeLong. Source: The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963
To Learn More About Elizabeth DeLong,
Please Visit the Links Below
Please Visit the Links Below
- Elizabeth DeLong. Better Days 2020 (Website)
- Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf (Website)
Elizabeth DeLong at Gallaudet College. Source: The DeLong Family Saga
The Utah School for the Deaf, Dumb, and Blind, as it was called at the time, was featured in the Ogden Daily Standard on December 20, 1902. The staff members were, from top to bottom, L-R: Albert Talage, Catherine King, Elizabeth DeLong, Superintendent Frank M. Driggs (Center), Sarah Whalen, E.S. Henne, and Max W. Woodbury
Elizabeth DeLong, the first Deaf female president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, 1909. Source: J. Willard Marriott Library
Elizabeth DeLong as a young woman. Source: FamilySearch.org
Libbie and friends on the road. Source: FamilySearch.org
Libbie & her husband, Loran Savage, about 1930. Source: The DeLong Family Saga
Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf on the USDB Campus in Springville, Utah. Source: USDB Website
References
"Deaf People of Two States Will Hold Reunion." The Ogden Daily Standard, June 9, 1915.
Evans, David S. "A Silent World in the Intermountain West: Records from the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind: 1884-1941." A thesis presented to the Department of History, Utah State University. 1999.
"From the Minutes." The UAD Bulletin, vol. 2, no. 10 (Summer 1963): 4 & 5.
"Locals." The Buff and Blue, vol. 10, no. 1 (October 1901), p. 29.
"NAD History." https://www.nad.org/about-us/nad-history/
"This Week in 19th Amendment History: Agatha Tiegel Hanson." (October 17, 1959). https://library.arlingtonva.us/2019/10/14/this-week-in-19th-amendment-history-agatha-tiegel-hanson/
Evans, David S. "A Silent World in the Intermountain West: Records from the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind: 1884-1941." A thesis presented to the Department of History, Utah State University. 1999.
"From the Minutes." The UAD Bulletin, vol. 2, no. 10 (Summer 1963): 4 & 5.
"Locals." The Buff and Blue, vol. 10, no. 1 (October 1901), p. 29.
"NAD History." https://www.nad.org/about-us/nad-history/
"This Week in 19th Amendment History: Agatha Tiegel Hanson." (October 17, 1959). https://library.arlingtonva.us/2019/10/14/this-week-in-19th-amendment-history-agatha-tiegel-hanson/
