History of the Utah Association of the Deaf Conventions/Conferences and Its Officials

History of the Utah Association of the Deaf Conventions/Conferences
and Its Officials

Compiled & Written by Jodi Becker Kinner
Edited by Valerie G. Kinney

Published in 2015
Updated in 2024

Author's Note

I thoroughly enjoyed researching the history of the Utah Association of the Deaf, also known as UAD, which is one of the oldest state organizations in the United States. Since its inception in 1909, the UAD has been a steadfast advocate, preserving and promoting the human, civil, accessibility, and linguistic rights of the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, and Late Deafened. They have also been strong advocates for the local Deaf community's accessibility rights and protection. Its remarkable history and relentless efforts to enhance the quality of life for Deaf individuals in Utah have earned my utmost respect and admiration. Therefore, I take immense pride in joining the Utah Association of the Deaf and honoring those who have guided the organization.

To positively impact the Utah Deaf community, I encourage us to actively participate in the Utah Deaf community by joining the Utah Association of the Deaf, voting for new UAD board members at the UAD conference, or even joining the UAD board. Together, we can help the UAD in its important mission to empower the Deaf community in Utah and work towards building a more inclusive society for everyone.

The Utah Deaf Association has made significant contributions to the local Deaf community. It has helped many Deaf people register to vote, participate in non-deaf political discussions, stay informed about political matters, and support political causes. If you want to make a difference at the Utah Association of the Deaf, you can join us. For instance, I was dissatisfied with the use of the word 'for' in the Utah Association for the Deaf. The use of 'for' was perceived as patronizing to the Deaf community, implying their inferior societal status and dependence on help. The change to 'of' was not just a linguistic shift but a significant step towards recognizing the Deaf community as equals, promoting inclusivity, and fostering a more supportive environment. As a result, in 2011, I joined the association with the specific goal of changing the name from 'for' to 'of.' With the support of Philippe Montalette, the association's president, I proposed changing the name from "for" to "of" in 2012 to become the Utah Association of the Deaf. The UAD voting members unanimously approved this proposal. The new name recognizes the Utah Deaf community and promotes equal treatment and full participation in society.

Philippe Montalette

After serving my two-year term in 2013, I found immense satisfaction in the organization's name change. So, let's work together to bring positive change and avoid criticizing the organization. We encourage UAD critics to attend the conference rather than complain. This is a significant event where your voice and presence can make a difference. You can also elect officers or join the board. Let's strive to make a positive impact and contribute to meaningful change. At the 1963 UAD Convention, John W. Glassett, who proposed publishing the UAD Bulletin in 1954, advised members to choose directors carefully and not to complain later (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963). This advice holds enormous importance as it guides the future actions and decisions of the UAD. Remember, our constructive actions can empower and motivate us to shape the future of our organization.

John W. Glassett

This history aims to raise awareness of the Utah Association of the Deaf's contributions to the Utah Deaf community and underlines the significance of addressing deaf-related political concerns. I acknowledge that UAD has shortcomings. However, I encourage the Deaf community in Utah to actively participate and support future causes, as well as to join the Utah Association of the Deaf and the National Association of the Deaf to safeguard our rights. UAD is a reliable organization that addresses the needs of the Utah Deaf community and advocates for securing our community's social justice needs. I hope that the "Carry the Torch" symbol and available resources will help us appreciate and reflect on UAD's long history of civil rights protection for the Deaf community in Utah.

When writing about individuals for our history website, I choose to use their first name to acknowledge all individuals who contribute to and advocate for our community's causes. Our patriarchal culture often expects to recognize women's advocacy, contributions, and achievements using their husbands' last names instead of their own. However, in the spirit of inclusivity, equality, and recognizing each individual's unique identity, I have decided to use their first names throughout the website. This decision reaffirms our commitment to these values and highlights the significant role of women's advocacy in our community.

Our organization, previously known as the Utah Association for the Deaf, changed its name to the Utah Association of the Deaf in 2012. The association was known as the Utah Association of the Deaf from 1909 to 1962. The association changed its name to the Utah Association for the Deaf in 1963. Finally, in 2012, the association reverted to its previous name, the Utah Association of the Deaf. When writing the history website, I use both "of" and "for" to reflect the different eras of the association's history.

The Utah Association of the Deaf hosts conferences featuring keynote speakers, workshops, activities, and elections for new officials, updated every two years. We are grateful for the dedication of our officers to the UAD board. This webpage will prominently feature anyone who contributes news about the UAD Conference, as their contributions are invaluable. Before I share the history of the Utah Association of the Deaf and its conventions, which later changed to conferences, please allow me to briefly introduce the history of the National Association of the Deaf. I will then return to our UAD history.

Last but not least, I want to express my gratitude to the Utah Association of the Deaf for their unwavering advocacy efforts on behalf of the Utah Deaf community. The history of the Utah Association of the Deaf, filled with enduring challenges, highlights the importance of their services in protecting and upholding the rights and privileges of local Deaf individuals. I truly hope that understanding the history of UAD will inspire future Deaf generations to connect with the association and its invaluable services. Additionally, I am confident that readers will come to respect and value the contributions that the association has made to the Utah Deaf community.

Thank you for taking an interest in this topic. Your engagement is invaluable to our mission to educate and advocate for the Deaf community and its history in Utah.

Salutations to the UAD leaders!

Jodi Becker Kinner

"To make democracy work,
we must be a notion of participants,
not simply observers. One who does not
vote has no right to complain'”
~Louis L'Amour~

Acknowledgement

I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to Valerie G. Kinney for her unique and invaluable contributions to this manuscript. Her meticulous proofreading and insightful editing have significantly enhanced the quality of our work. Valerie's unwavering commitment to staying abreast of the latest developments at the Utah Association of the Deaf, from conferences to officer elections, has been instrumental in ensuring the manuscript's relevance and accuracy.

Valerie G. Kinney

I would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to Georgia Henricks Walker, a 1930 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf, for her invaluable contribution. Her tireless efforts in collecting, preserving, and compiling the scrapbook of the Utah Association of the Deaf from 1931 through 1973 have not only preserved history but also significantly enriched our understanding of the past. We are deeply grateful for her dedication and hard work preserving our association's history.

Gerogia Henricks Walker

Gerogia Henricks Walker's UAD Scrapbook

I want to thank Eleanor McCowan for graciously inviting me to assist her with the Utah Deaf History Project in celebration of the Utah Association of the Deaf's 100th anniversary. None of this would have been possible without her request. This endeavor would not have been possible without the significant support and patience of my spouse, Duane Kinner, as well as my children, Joshua and Danielle, who have made personal sacrifices to be with me from the beginning. We could not have completed the Utah Association of the Deaf history without their help. Thank you once more!

Jodi Becker Kinner

The Advocacy of the
National Association of the Deaf

The first school for the deaf, initially named the American Asylum for the Deaf and Dumb, was established in 1817 in Hartford, Connecticut. Later, they renamed it the American School for the Deaf. Additionally, various states have formed state associations of the deaf (Gannon, 1981). The first meeting of the newly established National Association of the Deaf was held on August 25, 1880, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Deaf individuals from across the country gathered in Cincinnati for the First National Convention (Gannon, 1981; Van Cleve & Crouch, 1989). These attendees, who had graduated from the American Deaf school system for over sixty years, played diverse and crucial roles in the community, serving as teachers, school founders, principals, businesspeople, and leaders. Following the detrimental Milan Conference in Italy from September 6–11, 1880, which promoted oralism and banned sign language, resulting in a 'Dark Age' for deaf education, the National Association of the Deaf opposed the oral movement. They also aimed to enhance the quality of life for Deaf individuals by opposing laws that restricted their rights, discouraging imposters and Deaf peddlers, raising public awareness about hearing loss, advocating for improved vocational training in schools, implementing better educational methods, and addressing employment discrimination (Gannon, 1981).

Henry C. White, who later became a principal and teacher at the Utah School for the Deaf, attended the conference (Gannon, 1981).

Henry C. White (Center) at the First National Convention. Gannon, 1981

The Advocacy of the
Utah Association of the Deaf

The Utah Association of the Deaf is one of the oldest state associations in the United States, dating back to 1909. It has made significant contributions to the Utah Deaf community. Since its inception, it has been a leading voice, advocating, protecting, and promoting Deaf people's human, civil, accessibility, and linguistic rights in various areas such as auto insurance, traffic safety, telecommunications, interpreters, education, early intervention, employment, and rehabilitation. The Utah Association of the Deaf, with its unwavering commitment, was the driving force behind establishing the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, which has become a thriving hub for community activities. Additionally, the association played a crucial role in supporting the establishment of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf, providing educational opportunities for Deaf children. They also championed improving accessibility technology, expanding interpreting services, and establishing the Deaf Education Program at Utah State University, emphasizing Total Communication before transitioning to an ASL/English bilingual program. Today, the Utah Association of the Deaf continues its efforts to advocate for, preserve, and safeguard the rights of the Deaf community in Utah. With ongoing initiatives and future goals, the association brings optimism for a more accessible and inclusive future, inspiring hope and progress.

A Strong Connection Between the Utah School for the Deaf and the Utah Association of the Deaf

Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, also known as "Bob" and "Sandie," was a prominent figure in the Utah Deaf community. He graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1936 and was a long-time member of the Utah Association of the Deaf. He noted a strong connection between the Utah School for the Deaf and the Utah Association of the Deaf. The school provided a significant number of leaders, including himself, for the association, and both shared similar values and characteristics. By 1963, most members and presidents of the Utah Association of the Deaf had come from the Utah School for the Deaf. The association looked to the Utah School for the Deaf for future leaders to guide the destiny of the Utah Association of the Deaf, safeguard the interests of the Utah Deaf community, and ensure that they continue to have an active and fulfilling role in the community (Sanderson, UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963, p. 6).

As oral education and mainstreaming became more common, fewer individuals from the Utah School for the Deaf joined the Utah Association of the Deaf. Today, board members come from public schools, out-of-state schools for the deaf, other states, and diverse backgrounds.

The Role of the
Utah Association of the Deaf

Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, during his presidency from 1960 to 1963, was a strong advocate for the inclusive and community-oriented nature of the Utah Association for the Deaf. In 1996, he emphasized that no one individual represents the association—not even the president, board members, or outsiders. The Utah Association for the Deaf is a community organization that includes members who are both deaf and hearing. These members, who come from diverse backgrounds and often belong to other organizations, elect board members every two years at the conference. Following that, the board elects officers and carries out any plans or projects assigned by the conference. The board is deeply committed to managing the association's business and focusing on tasks supporting its members and the Utah Deaf community. Additionally, they can start new projects or ideas once they've completed their assigned tasks, which shows that the association is open to the inclusive and community-oriented nature of the association (Sanderson, UAD Bulletin, September 1996, pp. 1–3). Today, the Utah Association of the Deaf continues to operate using the procedures described above.

The Utah Association of the Deaf
Serves As a “Watchdog”

W. David Mortensen, also known as "Dave" or DM, has served as the president of the Utah Association of the Deaf for twenty-two years. In February 1995, he emphasized in the UAD Bulletin the UAD's role as a "watchdog" for the state's Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. The Utah Association for the Deaf has been working towards achieving equality in all aspects of a Deaf person's life, providing them the same opportunities to succeed as hearing individuals. Dave further stated that the UAD believes in advocating for the rights of Deaf and hard of hearing individuals and acts as a "watchdog" to ensure that no one's rights are overlooked or disregarded. As quoted, "They act as a 'watchdog' to ensure that no one's rights are pushed aside or trampled into the cold, cold ground" (D. Mortensen, UAD Bulletin, February 1995, p. 1).

Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, the influential president of the Utah Association for the Deaf and the National Association of the Deaf, had a significant impact on the Utah Deaf community. He stressed the critical role of the Utah Association for the Deaf as a 'watchdog' in the educational system, a vision that continues to guide the organization and highlights its unwavering commitment to the local community. Despite challenges, the Deaf Education Advocates, under his leadership, showed remarkable perseverance and dedication. They consistently recognized the Utah Association for the Deaf's dedication to improving the education of Deaf children, a testament to Dr. Sanderson's commitment and inspiration to all (Sanderson, UAD Bulletin, September 1996, p. 1–3).

W. David Mortensen played a crucial role in advancing civil and accessible rights in the Utah Deaf community. His leadership and dedication were impressive, and his collaboration with Bob Sanderson was also crucial in accomplishing their mission. Dave's commitment and Bob's visionary leadership made them a formidable team, demonstrating the power of teamwork. Dave supported and amplified Bob's initial work through community advocacy. Together, they established the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center, advocated for certain issues, and passed legislative bills. Their mutual support and reliance on each other were crucial to their success, highlighting the significant impact of collaboration in advocacy within the Utah Deaf community.

For many years, the Utah Association of the Deaf has worked tirelessly to ensure that Deaf individuals in Utah can achieve equality in all aspects of their lives, enabling them to participate in society fully. Their dedicated work has had a significant impact on the Utah Deaf community, and we can all be proud and appreciative of their achievements.

Now that we have briefly learned about the role and contributions of the Utah Association of the Deaf to the Utah Deaf community, let's delve into the history of the first convention. This significant event, proposed and led by Elizabeth DeLong, the first Deaf female president, took place on June 10, 1909. The convention was not just an event, but a pivotal moment in the history of the Utah Deaf community, marking the formal establishment of the Utah Association of the Deaf and the beginning of its advocacy efforts. It's a moment that deeply connects us to our past and helps us understand our present.

The First Triennial Convention
June 10-12, 1909
Utah School for the Deaf, Ogden

In 1909, Elizabeth Delong, also known as "Libbie," a faculty member, 1897 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf, and 1902 Gallaudet College graduate, played a crucial role in proposing the establishment of the Utah Association of the Deaf. The main objective of this organization was to address the social and welfare needs of Utah School for the Deaf alums. The proposal was approved by Superintendent Frank M. Driggs of the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind, a decision that instilled confidence in the future of the association (Evans, 1999). Utah became one of several states with its own chapter association of the National Association of the Deaf after its establishment in 1880. On June 10, 1909, at the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah, the first alum reunion established the Utah Association of the Deaf (Evans, 1999).

The Utah Association of the Deaf was founded by Frank M. Driggs, Elsie Christiansen, Melville Matheis, Elizabeth DeLong, and Paul Mark. The graduates of the Utah School for the Deaf (USD) in Ogden, Utah, got into business in June 1909 and elected officers, as explained in more detail below (UAD Bulletin, October 1999).

Elizabeth DeLong. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963

The birth of the first Utah Association of the Deaf on June 10, 1909, was a significant event, a testament to the unity and collective effort of the Utah Deaf community, guided by Superintendent Driggs. This association, as documented in the UAD Bulletin (Summer 1963, p. 1; Evans, 1999), was a direct result of the first alum reunion, a gathering that not only celebrated the achievements of the Utah Deaf community but also served as a platform for discussing the need for a unified voice. This marked a crucial milestone in the history of the Utah Deaf community, leading to the establishment of the Utah Association of the Deaf.

As the summer 1963 issue of the UAD Bulletin attests, "Frank M. Driggs will always hold a special place in the hearts of all those fortunate enough to have studied under his guidance." Superintendent Driggs, a master of sign language, not only shaped citizens, scholars, friends, and graduates but also left an indelible mark on the history of the Utah Deaf community. His strict yet fair approach and his pivotal role as the president of the first assembly were instrumental in the establishment of the Utah Association of the Deaf in 1909 (p. 1), a testament to his unwavering dedication and contribution.

The 1909 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

Superintendent Driggs, a key figure in the Utah Deaf community, presided over the first triennial convention, a significant event that began at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 10, 1909, at the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah. The convention was attended by forty-nine Utah graduates and former students, with 49 serving as delegates (1909 First Convention Minutes; The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963, p. 1). This convention, under the leadership of Superintendent Driggs, marked another important step in the establishment of the Utah Association of the Deaf.

Superintendent Driggs opened the convention with a prayer and then delivered a welcome message. In the 1909 minutes, Melville J. Matheis, the secretary, documented that he provided the following individuals, identified by their names, with the opportunity to address the audience, as quoted in the section below.

Frank M. Driggs. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963

“Rev. P. A. Simpkin of Salt Lake and a member of the Board of Trustees of the School addressed the audience upon the advancement of the deaf and did his best to co-operate with every deaf in the audience and received a hearty ovation.

Miss Elizabeth DeLong read the letters of the absent, and many regretted not being able to be in attendance.

Mr. Max W. Woodbury addressed the audience, “What Other Associations Have Done for Their Respective States?”

“America,” the beloved hymn of the people of America, was recited by the Misses E. DeLong, I. Griggs, C. Egginton, and M. Woolslayer and Mrs. M. Larson.”

Supt. F. M. Driggs congratulated the 49 delegates for being earnest workers, taking a good deal of interest in the convention, and turning over the key to the gates of welcome to the audience.

Supt. F. M. Driggs was given authority by the delegates to select a committee on by-laws and rules for the next session of the convention scheduled for June 11 at 10:30 am. Messers. M. J. Matheis Paul Mark and Miss E. DeLong were selected to act.”

In the evening, a reception and ball were held in honor of the delegates, and the program was well-organized and conducted to the enjoyment of all who attended."

Utah Association of the Deaf
Officer Election

"The convention met again the next day, on June 11th, at 10:30 a.m. There were 53 delegates present. The UAD was formed as follows, according to the 1909 minutes, which were also written by Melville J. Matheis, secretary.

Superintendent Driggs was chosen President (protem) and Miss E. Christensen secretary (protem) until the Association elected its recognized officers.

The committee on by-laws presented its rules and by-laws to Superintendent Driggs who in turn read them to the delegates.

The bylaws were passed by acclamation and so were the rules as soon as Superintendent Driggs asked, if any delegate found any dissatisfaction concerning the by-laws and rules.

Superintendent Driggs announced the election of the officers of the association as next on the program.

The nominations of Messers. Paul Mark, M. J. Matheis and Miss E. DeLong were announced for the office of president.  Miss E. DeLong was proclaimed as elected president of the Association with a majority of 35 votes over Mssers P. Mark and M. J. Matheis combined.

39 votes were cast for Miss E. DeLong
2 votes were cast for Mr. P. Mark
2 votes were cast for M. J. Matheis

The newly elected president Miss E. DeLong was escorted to the chair and president (protem) Supt. F. M. Driggs, in turn, handed over the chair and rules.

President DeLong at once announced for the nominations of first vice president. Messers J. Beck, P. Mark and Miss I. Griggs were nominated.  Upon first ballot Mr. J. Beck received 18 votes, Mr. P. Mark 9, Miss I. Griggs 10.

The president called the attention of the convention that a ½ vote or more was necessary before a candidate could be declared elected.  Mr. J. Beck failed to get the ½ vote required and the president then ordered a second ballot.  In the meantime Mr. P. Mark succeeded in having his name scratched from the nomination list, thus leaving Mr. J. Beck and Miss I. Griggs as the candidates for the office.  Mr. J. Beck finally won out carrying the second ballot with 29 votes to Miss I. Griggs’ 16.  The president then declared Mr. J. Beck elected first vice president of the association.

The nominations of Miss I. Griggs, Mrs. P. Mark, Messers E. Jacobs and E. Moore for second vice-president were announced by the president.  Upon the first ballot, the standing of the votes were – Miss I. Griggs 16, Mr. E. Jacobson 12, Mrs. P. Mark 7, Mr. E. Moore 6."

Elizabeth DeLong, UAD's 1st Female President @ FamilySearch

"President DeLong again announced that either of the 4 candidates failed to receive a ½ vote or more and ordered a second ballot. Mrs. P. Mark’s request to be scratched was granted, leaving 3 candidates. Miss Ivy Griggs received 39 votes, Mr. Elgin Jacobson received 10 votes, Mr. Earl Moore received 4 votes. The president declared Miss Ivy Griggs elected second vice president of the association.

Mr. M. J. Matheis was elected secretary of the association by acclamation.

A motion was moved to elect Mr. P. Mark, treasurer, by acclamation, but it was defeated. The nomination of Mr. E. Jacobson and Mr. P. Mark were recognized by the president. Mr. P. Mark carried 39 and Mr. E. Jacobson 4 votes. The president declared Mr. P. Mark elected treasurer of the association.

The unfinished program of the morning session was adjourned at 12 noon until 7 pm in the evening by order of the president."

The 1909 Utah Association of the Deaf Officers @ J. Willard Marriott Library

"Everyone present at the convention gathered into a group a few minutes after 1 o’clock in front of the school on the lawn among the beautiful trees and flowers of assorted specimens, and the “Kodak man” was there to take a couple of good snaps of the crowd. Then, all in a hurry, they jumped upon the carriages, and with the words “Gid-dap” from the drivers, they were all off to the beautiful Ogden Canyon and up as far to the Idlewild Inn and back within 3 ½ hours. During the trip, Supt. F. M. Driggs delightfully explained the nature of the canyon and described and illustrated the “cartoons” of the mountains throughout the trip. Everybody was jolly when the headquarters were reached and said the trip was grand."

UAD Convention attendees are off to the Ogden Canyon @ J. Willard Marriott Library

"President DeLong called the convention to order at 7:25 pm in the evening and announced the unfinished program from the morning session.

Mr. J. Beck explained, “How the Deaf Can Best Earn a Living.”

Mrs. M. Larson recited “Eating Fruits.”

Mr. E. Moore explained, “How a Union May Help a Deaf Man.”

Debate, “Resolved that (the) wisdom has more influence upon people than money.”

Affirmative: Paul Mark and Mary Woolslayer; negative, M. J. Matheis and Ivy Griggs.

The audience was given the privilege of rendering a verdict, and rendered it in favor of the affirmative – 26 to 14.

Miss E. DeLong recited, “As You Like It.”

Mr. A. Madsen recited, “Charge of the Light Brigade.”

The Original Minutes of the 1909 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

"Motions were moved, seconded and passed to send words of thanks to Rev. P. A. Simpkin, Mr. M. Woodbury, Mrs. M. Wright and the musicians for rendering their services at the convention.

Mr. Max Woodbury spoke briefly upon the future of the Utah Association of the Deaf.

Mr. P. Mark congratulated the Association upon the excellent efforts of the delegates to make the convention a success.

President E. DeLong, upon the behalf of the Ass’n, extended her best thanks to Supt. F. M. Driggs for his untiring efforts in lending the convention his “glad hand.”

Supt. F. M. Driggs responded and spoke the closing address.

Upon the motion of Supt. F. M. Driggs, the Association adjourned at 10:10 pm until further notice.

Saturday June 12th was spent at Salt Air, and all had the time of their lives and in the evening, left for their respective homes, promising to meet again in 1912."

Melville J. Matheis

The 1909 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

To sum up, in 1909, Elizabeth DeLong, also known as Libbie, made history by defeating two male Deaf candidates, becoming the first female Deaf president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, an advocacy organization for accessibility and civil rights of the Utah Deaf community. Additionally, she became the first female Deaf president of a state chapter association of the National Association of the Deaf in the United States. Her victory over two Deaf male candidates in the election, despite the societal barriers, was a significant achievement. Women did not have the right to vote until the 19th Amendment was ratified in 1920, and the National Association of the Deaf also did not allow Deaf women members to vote in their elections until 1964. Libbie's remarkable accomplishment was a testament to her perseverance, likely inspired by her involvement in Gallaudet's O.W.L.S. presidential election in 1901, a secret society for women now known as Phi Kappa Zeta. Her active participation in Utah's early suffrage movement also fueled her educational, political, and spiritual aspirations. Libbie served as president of the Utah Association of the Deaf from 1909 to 1915, delivering a speech advocating for women's suffrage at the end of her second term as president. This speech highlighted her commitment to advocating for women's rights and her role as a trailblazer for Deaf women in leadership positions. Her support for women's suffrage, as well as her significant contributions to the Utah Deaf community and the women's rights movement, continue to serve as inspiration today, underscoring the enduring impact of her work.

Second Triennial Convention
June 5-8, 1912
Utah School for the Deaf, Ogden

The Utah School for the Deaf hosted the second triennial convention from June 5-8, 1912. The officers and members of the Utah Association of the Deaf gathered once more, and for the first time in its history, there was a grand reunion (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963, p. 4). Deaf people began arriving at the convention in the afternoon of June 5th, and the crowd grew in the evening. A total of eighty-one names were registered, according to the registration. The audience, filled with enthusiasm and cheerfulness, mingled with old and new friends, creating a vibrant atmosphere that lasted until dawn (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963, p. 4).

The 1912 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

A Ribbon of the 2nd Reunion of the Utah Association of the Deaf, June 6-8, 1912

Similarly, in 1909, the UAD Bulletin's Summer 1963 issue quoted the following notable individuals who had the opportunity to address the audience:

“..... on the platform the Board of Trustees of Utah School for the Deaf were seated with Superintendent Frank M. Driggs and President Elizabeth DeLong of Utah Association of the Deaf. The following members of the board, President Maud Babcock, S. Clark and P. Simpkin were present.

President DeLong announced that Governor William Spry would be unable to arrive in time for the morning session as his automobile had broken down, and that he would try to reach Ogden in time for the afternoon session.

President M. Babcock was introduced and gave a touching address

Peter Simpkin was next introduced and gave a fine and long address which was interrupted time and again by applause.

Miss L. Egginson recited that national hymn “America” gracefully.

Secretary M.J. Matheis reported upon the letter of the National Association of the Deaf concerning the World Congress of the Deaf at Colorado Springs and asking Congress for $5,000.00. He wrote Senators Smoot and Sutherland to vote for appropriation and was assured by both senators that they would do all they could to favor the bill. That was the last report he ever heard concerning the matter” (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963, p. 4).

In the evening, there was a spectacular ball and reception, with lemon punch as the beverage of choice. Everyone had a great time until the clock struck midnight (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963, p. 4).

On Saturday, the association's attendees spent the entire day at the Wandamere Resort in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Utah Commercial Club of the Deaf hosted a banquet for the association from 8:30 p.m. until midnight at the Waldorf Cafeteria. Superintendent Frank M. Driggs of the Utah School for the Deaf, President DeLong of the Utah Association of the Deaf, and President M.J. Matheis of the Utah Commercial Club of the Deaf were among those who spoke (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963, p. 4).

The participants were dispersed the next day, Sunday. Some of them stayed in Salt Lake and went sightseeing. Some hurriedly packed their "grips" and dashed back to their homes in time to put on overalls and milk the cow, feed the pig, and feed the chickens. Others took it easy and left Salt Lake when they had had enough of it (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963, p. 4).

Third Triennial Convention
June 9-12, 1915
Utah School for the Deaf, Ogden

The third triennial convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, a significant event in the Utah Deaf community, took place at the Utah School for the Deaf from June 9 to 12, 1915. Superintendent Frank M. Driggs delivered a warm and insightful welcome address to inaugurate the convention, setting the tone for the proceedings. Paul Mark, the First Vice President of the Utah Association of the Deaf, responded on behalf of the organization, with his daughter Pauline assisting in interpreting his response for those who could not understand sign language.

Paul Mark, UAD President. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963

Maud May Babcock, a distinguished member of the Board of Trustees of the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, shared her unique and enlightening experiences from her visits to deaf schools in France and Germany, providing a global perspective to Utah Deaf community.

According to the treasurer's report, the UAD maintained a stable financial position, receiving $70.83 and spending $7.10 from June 7, 1912, to June 11, 1915. This demonstrates their commitment to responsible financial management and the sustainability of their organization.

Otto P. Farley proposed forming a committee to welcome and host the members of the National Association of the Deaf as they passed through Ogden, Utah, on their way to California on July 16, 1915.

Maud May Babcock @ National Communication Association

On Friday evening, there was entertainment in the gym, with the following program:

Song, America…………………...All
Pantomime……………………….Jack Waterhouse
Dialogue…………………………..Mary Woolslayer, Willie Cole
Suffrage Talk……………………..E. DeLong
Dialogue…………………………..K. Olsen, Otto Farley
Classic Dancing………………….Mary Woolslayer
Home Sweet Home……………...All (UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

1918 Convention Postponed - World War I

The fourth Convention, originally scheduled for 1918, was postponed until the end of World War I. Because of the war, the terms were extended until 1920 (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

Fourth Triennial Convention
June 3-5, 1920
Utah School for the Deaf, Ogden

The fourth triennial convention, a significant event in the history of the Utah School for the Deaf, was scheduled to be held in Ogden on June 3-5, 1920. President Paul Mark led the arrangements for the convention, which was not just a gathering but a unique blend of a reunion for former students and a convention. Recognizing the event's importance, the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind's Board of Trustees agreed to provide board and lodging for visitors for $1.00 per day.

Superintendent Frank M. Driggs of the Utah School for the Deaf, a key figure in the school's history, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the "History and Growth of the Utah School for the Deaf since 1884," in his engaging style. He recounted the history of the first school for the deaf in Hartford, Connecticut, and Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet's efforts to secure funds to establish the school, the challenges he encountered, and the eventual success of his efforts. Superintendent Driggs, who has played a significant role in the growth of the Utah School for the Deaf, also discussed the significance of the first deaf school, which began in a small manner in Utah in 1884 under the guidance of Dr. William Wood, the hearing father of a Deaf daughter named Eliza, who was the first student of the school. This event occurred 36 years ago. Superintendent Driggs captivated the audience by highlighting the humble beginning of the founders' struggles with a poorly equipped school with few students to its current standing as a leading institution for the deaf under his competent leadership and with educational opportunities.

Utah School for the Deaf at the University of Deseret in 1886. American School for the Deaf, 1817-1893

The convention provided the following entertainment on Friday evening:

Song –“Star Spangled Banner,” Mrs. Jacob Beck
Pantomime impersonations – “As They See Each Other,” Violet Taylor as a boy and Kenneth Murphy as a girl
Pantomime – “Looking for a Husband,” Mrs. Theresa R. Mark
Mocking Orchestra – Arthur Wenger
Patriotic Song – “The Charge of the Light Brigade,” Mary Woolslayer
Cake Walk – Carl Hertell
Recitation – Miss Gladys Burnham

Arthur Wenger, UAD President. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963

Miss Lamb performed "The Fan Dance," which was absolutely lovely. She did an excellent job portraying a sassy maid.

Under the direction of Arthur W. Wenger, he led the Mocking Orchestra. It was one-of-a-kind and entertaining. When he made his debut with an ensemble of professional musicians, his music was ten times louder than thunder.

Superintendent Driggs addressed the stage and gave UAD some practical advice on how to save money on clothing and other small items in the face of rising living costs (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

The 1920 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

Fifth Triennial Convention
June 11-13, 1923
Utah School for the Deaf, Ogden

On June 11–13, 1923, a significant event took place at the Utah School for the Deaf. It hosted an industrial session, which was a pivotal part of the fifth triennial convention, marking a milestone in the history of deaf education and associations.

John H. Clark, a civil engineer who graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1897 and Gallaudet College in 1902, presented on the topic of 'Professional Services.' The audience was very interested in Clark's presentation. His expertise in the field was evident, and his talk illuminated the challenges civil engineers face (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963). It is also worth noting that Clark was a cousin of Elizabeth DeLong.

John H. Clark @ FamilySearch

The 1923 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

Sixth Triennial Convention
June 3-5, 1926
Utah School for the Deaf, Ogden

On June 2–5, 1926, the Utah Association of the Deaf held its sixth triennial convention, which included an instructional session at the Utah School for the Deaf. Nephi Larson, Paul Mark, Alfred C. Keeley, Gilman Stebbins, Milo Cutler, Carlos Seegmiller, Gladys Jones, Rufus Elben, and Catherine Crawford were participants in a panel discussion. Each of these individuals brought their unique perspectives and experiences to the discussion, enriching the session with their insights (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

Alfred C. Keeley, UAD President. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963

Seventh Triennial Convention
May 29-31, 1929
Utah School for the Deaf, Ogden

The Utah Association of the Deaf held its seventh triennial convention from May 29 to May 31, 1929, at the Utah School for the Deaf. The convention featured a variety of workshops, panel discussions, and social events, all aimed at fostering a sense of community and addressing the needs of their members. In the school gymnasium, high school students performed The Collegians, a play that was a hit with the audience.
President Alfred C. Keeley, recognizing the importance of every member's voice, posed a thought-provoking question to the association. He inquired about their stance on non-members who attended the convention regularly but were unable to join due to membership fees (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

Joshua E. Wright, UAD President. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963

The 1929 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

Eighth Triennial Convention
September 2-6, 1931
Utah School for the Deaf, Ogden

The Utah Association of the Deaf hosted its ninth triennial convention from September 2 to 6, 1931, at the Utah School for the Deaf. Gus P. Beckman, general secretary of the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce, delivered the opening address titled "The Depression" (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

E. Ross Thurston, UAD President. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963

The program of the 8th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, September 2-6, 1931

The 1931 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

Constitution and By-Laws of the Utah Association of the Deaf, 1931

Ninth Triennial Convention
May 31-June 2, 1934
Utah School for the Deaf, Ogden

Mr. Howard Driggs, a distinguished professor from the University of New York and president of the Oregon Pioneer Trails, delivered a captivating speech on the first Pony Express. This memorable event took place during the ninth triennial convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, held at the Utah School for the Deaf from May 31 to June 2, 1934.

Step back in time as Gladys Burnham, George Laramie, Gilman Stebbins, and Kate Keeley, all prominent figures in the historical drama scene, starred in the period piece "Accidents Will Happen" (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

The 1934 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

The program of the 9th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, May 31-June 2, 1934

Tenth Triennial Convention
August 21-23, 1936
Newhouse Hotel, Salt Lake City

The Utah Association of the Deaf, a significant advocate for the Deaf community, held its tenth triennial convention outside of the Utah School for the Deaf for the first time in its history. This change in location marked a significant shift in the visibility and recognition of the Utah Deaf community, as it was a public declaration of their presence and their right to gather and discuss their issues openly. It was the most well-attended convention ever (Cole, The Salt Lake Tribune, 1936). The turnout was the greatest in the UAD's history, as proven by the fact that one hundred sixty-six people registered (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963, p. 5). Also, thirty-six tourists from other states were in attendance (Cole, The Ogden Standard Examiner, August 27, 1944).

The program of the 10th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, August 21-23, 1936

During the convention, then-president E. Ross Thurston passionately addressed the prevalent misconceptions about Deaf people. He challenged the popular perception that Deaf people are incapable of driving cars or competing for public posts with hearing people. His powerful words, 'We must fight to advance,' resonated with the audience, inspiring a collective call to action. 'We must fight unjust laws to our community and advocate for more recognition for deaf people in Utah,' he proclaimed (The Ogden-Standard Examiner, 1936).

Deaf Charge Laws Unfair. Ogden Standard-Examiner, 1936

The program of the 10th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, August 21-23, 1936

E. Ross Thurston of Murray was succeeded as president by George L. Laramie of Salt Lake City, Utah. This marks a significant change in the leadership of the Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, the convention approved several amendments to its constitution and bylaws (Telegram, August 22, 1936).

George L. Laramie, UAD President. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963

The question of whether the Utah Association of the Deaf should join the National Association of the Deaf was raised. This decision could have significant implications for the organization. No action was taken on this subject, and it was decided to postpone it until the next convention (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963, p. 5).

Over two-hundred members of the association, coming from various parts of the state, gathered in a show of unity and camaraderie. They convened in the theatre on Saturday night, filling the space with energy and enthusiasm for a memorable pantomime performance (The Salt Lake Tribune, August 23, 1936).

Announcing the Big UAD Convention, August 21-22, 1936

Leaders of ‘Eloquent Hands’ Convention. They supervise at 1936 UAD Convention...seated Fern Player, Eula Pusey and E. Ross Thurston. Standing, George L. Laramie, newly elected president, and Joseph Taylor Telegram, August 22, 1936

The annual meeting of leading health and education experts concluded with a Sunday picnic. E. Russ Thurston, present at the picnic, warned that the noisy world is endangering everyone's hearing. Scientists also agreed that modern man may eventually lose hearing, suggesting that those who can hear should learn sign language to communicate with those who cannot (Telegram, August 22, 1936). Unfortunately, USDB Superintendents Frank M. Driggs and USD Principal Max W. Woodbury were unable to attend the conference due to scheduling conflicts(Cole, The Ogden Standard-Examiner, 1936).

New Officers of State Unit. Newly elected officers of the Utah Association of the Deaf. Back row L-R: George Laramie, president, John Glassett, first president; Ferdinand T. Billeter, treasurer. Front Row L-R: Lillian Coles, second vice president, and Georgia Hendricks, secretary Salt Lake Tribune, August 23, 1936

Eleventh Biennial Convention
September 2-4, 1938
Newhouse Hotel, Salt Lake City

President George L. Laramie, in an interview with the Salt Lake Tribune, emphasized the significant role of Texans in the 1938 convention held in Salt Lake City. He mentioned that their participation was crucial in making it the most attended among the association's ten annual gatherings. He also issued a challenge for the upcoming event, stating, "We aim to surpass that record this year" (State Association for the Deaf launches annual meet today – Salt Lake Tribune, 1938). Secretary Georgia Hendricks, recalling the Texans' enthusiasm, expressed her hope that the convention would once again captivate their interest, as many of them had attended the tenth biannual convention two years ago and were eagerly anticipated to return (Hendricks, Modern Silents, 1938).

The program of the 11th Biennial of the Utah Association of the Deaf, September 2, 1938

One hundred members of the Utah Association of the Deaf, united in their mission, convened at the Newhouse Hotel in Salt Lake City for their eleventh biennial convention (Utah Security Chief Speaks at Deaf Meet – Salt Lake Tribune, September 3, 1938). The convention, a testament to their collective strength, aimed to eliminate discrimination against Deaf job seekers (Salt Lake Telegram, September 2, 1938).

The program of the 11th Biennial of the Utah Association of the Deaf, September 2-3, 1938

President Laramie, a shining example of resilience and determination as a successful and efficient Linotype at a local printing shop, called for an end to employment discrimination against Deaf people. "We aren't as incapacitated as people think," he remarked. "We must reduce the injustice and discrimination that prevents us from working and living as ordinary people," he added. "Many deaf persons grow discouraged by the constant refusal of employment," he said. We urge them to join us and regain their confidence." Finally, he emphasized that "we do not pity and we do not seek charity" (Salt Lake Telegram, September 2, 1938).

A Ribbon of the 11th Biennial of the Utah Association of the Deaf, September 2-4, 1938

Not a Word Spoken, but All Understood. Communicating through hands. L-R: LaRue Averett, Lorenz Downsy, and Anna Downsy. The Salt Lake Tribuen, September 2, 1938

Envoys Shape Program to Aid Deaf. September 4, 1938

When laws that prohibited Deaf people from driving were approved in several states, UAD officials expressed their intention to issue a warning to the state legislature. They were concerned that such regulations would limit the activities of the state's Deaf population (Salt Lake Tribune, September 4, 1938). Despite the potential challenges, they were determined to fight against future legislation that might make it illegal for Deaf people to drive cars (Salt Lake Telegram, September 3, 1938). As the president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, Mr. Laramie, a beacon of resilience, worked tirelessly to prevent such legislation that would prohibit Deaf individuals from driving cars (The Salt Lake Tribune, September 4, 1938).

President Laramie, in his advocacy for the rights of Deaf individuals, presented compelling statistics. He pointed out that in the past ten years, only two Deaf individuals had been involved in car accidents in Utah. This data raised the question of why Deaf people should be deprived of the enjoyment of driving when there is no real need for it. At that time, in Utah, there were three hundred Deaf individuals, sixty-five of whom drove cars, and twenty-eight of them lived in Salt Lake City. It seemed that the state of Utah had not passed a law prohibiting Deaf individuals from driving (Salt Lake Telegram, September 3, 1938).

Deaf Association Launches Drive to Block Legislation Prohibiting Driving of Cars. Telegram, September 3, 1938

The banquet ticket for the 11th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, September 3, 1938

During the convention on Friday morning, President Laramie offered a few words of greeting. He explained that because Salt Lake Metropolis was a wide-open city, he couldn't give the delegates the key to the city (UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963). Later that morning, Floyd Brower, president of the Idaho Association of the Deaf, spoke. The "Star-Spangled Banner" was sung by Dora B. Laramie, and the invocation was given by Elgin Jacobson (Salt Lake Tribune, 1938).

The first two days were filled with educational and business sessions (Hendricks, 1938). Throughout the convention, Pauline Humphries, the daughter of Paul Mark, the chair of the board of trustees, worked as an interpreter (Salt Lake Tribune, September 3, 1938).

Nimble Fingers Tell Meaning. Pauline Humphries serves as an interpreter throughout the 1938 UAD Convention. Salt Lake Tribune, September 3, 1938

In 1938, there was legislation that prohibited Deaf individuals from working and required companies to pay compensation insurance, which received attention as reported by the Salt Lake Telegram on September 3, 1938. Despite being capable and willing to work, Deaf individuals were employed in canneries and sugar mills but were unjustly refused employment in mines and other businesses because their accident insurance companies would not cover them (Salt Lake Telegram on September 3, 1938).

At the opening night of an event in 1938, Joseph B. Burnett, a recent graduate of Gallaudet College, directed a play, while Frank B. Muir, deputy collector and local leader of the federal Social Security Division, was a featured speaker on the first day (Salt Lake Tribune, 1938).

The 1938 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

The following day, the business session took place. William B. Hayward, the Utah manager of the Social Security Board, shared the findings of his three-year investigation into the Social Security Administration in the United States. He stated, "It's too early to evaluate all the outcomes of this American neighborliness adventure." He also mentioned, "It is not, however, too early to assess our progress." At the third-year milestone, over 30,000,000 men and women are building up insurance against financial insecurity in old age, 25,500,000 workers have earned credits towards insurance against temporary unemployment, and around 2,350,000 needy individuals are receiving assistance in their homes. Health and welfare services are reaching all parts of the country (Utah Security Chief Speaks at Deaf Meet – Salt Lake Tribune, September 3, 1938). President Laramie informed William Hayward that he believed approximately twenty-five UAD members had social security numbers, with the others working on farms or running their own businesses (Utah Security Chief Speaks at Deaf Meet – Salt Lake Tribune, September 3, 1938).

D. Hart Wenger, UAD President. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963

The convention served as a platform for discussing and addressing various issues faced by the Utah Deaf community. D. Hart Wenger, a young brother of Utah's famous twin team, Ray and Arthur Wenger, explained the controversy over Deaf workers on the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and why he opposed establishing a labor bureau for the deaf in Utah due to what seemed like few in need (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963). D. E. Nelson, the Works Progress Administration's Utah Safety Consultant, acknowledged accusations of discrimination against Deaf people in WPA employment. He clarified that the WPA program did not intend to discriminate against Deaf individuals (The Salt Lake Tribune, September 3, 1938). Superintendent Frank M. Driggs also urged lobbying the legislature to appoint a member of the state labor commission to address deaf employment issues and to create a state cooperative fund under the UAD to provide housing for Deaf elderly individuals who are homeless (The Salt Lake Tribune, September 3, 1938).

Arthur & Ray Wenger, the Utah’s famous twin team

D. Hart Wenger and Gladys (Burnham) Wenger

At a recent educational session, the Utah Association of the Deaf raised concerns about the slow academic progress of Deaf students and their tendency to receive low academic scores. They noted that some states require Deaf minors aged 3 to 18 who are enrolled in public schools to be placed in a suitable institution. The UAD was aware of the availability of lip-reading teaching in public schools for Deaf and hard of hearing students. They were working to address the challenges within the school system (The Salt Lake Tribune, September 2, 1938).

President Laramie discussed the potential for the Utah Association of the Deaf to join the National Association of the Deaf. Mr. D. Hart Wenger, the state representative of the National Association of the Deaf, outlined the benefits of membership. This led to a lively discussion, with a strong sense of unity and a majority in favor of affiliation (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

The community witnessed a significant shift in leadership as George L. Laramie was succeeded by D. Hart Wenger, who was elected president (The Salt Lake Tribune, September 4, 1938).

An exciting evening took place this past Saturday as Gladys Burnham led the meal and dance. The event featured a lineup of fantastic performances, with Max W. Woodbury acting as the lively toastmaster. Renowned magician Les Hunt from San Francisco, California, performed a captivating pantomime. Afton Burdett graced the audience with a song in sign language, while Shirley May Brown dazzled them with her dance. Joseph Burnett, who recently graduated from Gallaudet College, also entertained with his hilarious song (Salt Lake Telegram, September 3, 1938).

A Poem of "Remember?" Written by Lillian Cole

Twelfth Biennial Convention
August 30 - September 1, 1940
Newhouse Hotel, Salt Lake City

The twelfth biennial convention, a testament to the broad appeal of professions and road safety, drew a diverse crowd of more than one hundred fifty members and their visitors. This inclusive event was held at the Newhouse Hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah, providing a platform for various perspectives. The 18th Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hosted the engaging stage entertainment on Friday night (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

A diverse range of speakers, each representing a unique perspective, addressed the convention throughout the three-day event. O.F. McShane of the State Industrial Commission shared insights on worker's compensation, Social Security legislation, and employer-employee relations. A.D. Molohon of the United States Grazing Service brought his expertise on homesteading laws to the table, enriching the discussions (The Salt Lake Tribune, 1940).

Announcement of the 12th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, September 1, 1940

The program of the 12th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, August 20-21 & September 1, 1940

During a meeting, over a hundred members expressed concerns that the legislature might pass a law preventing Deaf individuals from driving. Similar legislation has already been approved in other states. However, Foster Kunz, a traffic safety engineer for the Utah State Road Commission, offered important safety advice at the meeting. He recommended that Deaf pedestrians, in particular, wear light-colored clothing, especially at night, to enhance their safety in potentially hazardous traffic situations. Hebert B. Simpson, executive secretary of the Governor's Traffic Safety Coordinating Committee, highlighted the most dangerous times for traffic accidents, which included 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. daily, as well as late Saturday nights and early Sunday mornings (Deaf warned to heed cars, August 31, 1940). Sergeant Rulon Bennion from the State Highway Patrol also contributed to the discussion (Deseret News, August 29, 1940).

Deaf Warned to Heed Cars. August 31, 1940. Publication Unknown

The Utah Association of the Deaf Presents Drama and Vaudeville, August 30, 1940

During the event, Hogle Investment Company, located at 132 South Main Street, showcased exhibits highlighting the various accomplishments of Deaf individuals (Deseret News, August 29, 1940). D. Hart Wenger, the president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, emphasized that with proper training, Deaf individuals can become skilled and efficient workers, and will play an increasingly important role in the association (Utah’s Deaf hold meeting in Salt Lake Today, August 30, 1940). He also stressed that although Deaf individuals lead normal lives under favorable conditions, it is important for both the state and the public to understand and support them. This is because Deaf individuals often face challenges finding employers who are willing to recognize their abilities and give them a chance. President Wenger emphasized that progress is being made and it is the collective responsibility of the community to ensure that this progress continues (Deseret News, August 29, 1940).

The Utah Association of the Deaf Convention Bulletin, 1940

Elmer W. Farrar, an instructor at the Iowa School for the Deaf, discussed the importance of selecting career paths. He emphasized the need to stay current with modern demands and strive to fulfill the prerequisites for focusing, perseverance, and consistent improvement of practical abilities (School head lauds deaf on education, August 31, 1940).

A Ribbon of the 12th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, August 20-21 & September 1, 1940

Superintendent Frank M. Driggs stated that the Utah School for the Deaf has the highest percentage of Deaf students with college or university education compared to any other state school for the deaf in the United States or worldwide. Since its establishment in 1884, the school had taught 800 students. Many graduates have pursued careers as teachers, chemists, designers, salespeople, linotype operators, printers, surveyors, and carpenters, among other professions (Salt Lake Tribune, August 31, 1940).

Work of Their Association Acclaimed as 12th Biennial Convention. Letters they form with their hands spell out 'Education,' theme of deaf convention. Publication Unknown. L-R: Mrs Coles, Ferdinand T. Billeter, Mrs. Stone, D. Hart Wenger, and Clara V. Martin

D. Hart Wenger gave a brief history of the Utah Association of the Deaf, which was founded in 1909 by the Utah School for the Deaf Alumni. He praised the organization for its dedicated efforts in building strong relationships between the school's members and the community, demonstrating the close-knit nature of the Utah Deaf community. He emphasized the organization's ability to operate independently as a sign of its success over the last six years, made possible through its members' collective efforts and support. The organization has been in existence for 31 years. President Wenger stated, "The goal of our organization is to achieve, through coordinated efforts, what would be challenging to accomplish individually, particularly in terms of public relations." (The Salt Lake Tribune, August 31, 1940).

Their Hands Converse Fluently. D. Hart Wenger and Dr. Frank M. Driggs in action at the 1940 UAD Convention. The Deseret News, August 30, 1940

After the afternoon business meeting, the members gathered for an evening meal on Saturday. Civil engineer John H. Clark of Panguitch, Utah, spoke on "Adventures in Contentment." He discussed how Deaf people can enjoy life, sharing personal anecdotes and insights. His speech resonated with the audience, sparking lively discussions and inspiring many. The events on Saturday attracted people from California, Arizona, Idaho, Tennessee, Wyoming, Montana, Kansas, and South Dakota, all eager to participate in these enriching conversations (The Salt Lake Tribune, September 1, 1940).

The 1940 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

The Utah Association of the Deaf elected Joseph B. Burnett of Ogden as its president. D. Hart Wenger of Salt Lake City was his predecessor (The Salt Lake Tribune, September 1, 1940).

Joseph B. Burnett, Utah Association of the Deaf President

Superintendent Frank M. Driggs retired from the Utah School for the Deaf in March 1941, on his 70th birthday. He was born to a Utah family in Pleasant Grove, Utah, on November 20, 1870. He graduated from Gallaudet College in Washington, D.C., after attending Brigham Young University and the University of Utah. He had spent 49 years working at the Utah School for the Deaf, which the school witnessed significant growth and development (Head of Utah School for Blind Retires). Under his leadership, the school expanded its curriculum, introduced innovative teaching methods, and established strong ties with the Utah Deaf community. His dedication and vision have left a lasting impact on the school and its students.

Head of Utah School for Blind Retires. Publication Unknown

Burton W. Driggs, the superintendent of the Idaho School for the Deaf sent a telegram message to USDB Superintendent Driggs.

1942 Convention Postponed - World War II

A convention scheduled for 1942 was postponed due to World War II (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

Benefits of the UAD Emergency Funds during World War II on May 3, 1941

Joseph B. Burnett's donation to the Victory Fund of the National Association of the Deaf during World War II in 1942

The Utah Association of the Deaf, a community organization dedicated to the welfare and advancement of the Deaf community, chose to host a Victory Party on May 9, 1942, at the Utah Power & Light Auditorium in Ogden, Utah, instead of holding a convention. The purpose of the Victory Party was to raise funds for the war against the Axis. Every Deaf person in the United States was asked to contribute $1 to the victory fund and to purchase defense stamps and bonds (The Ogden Standard Examiner, May 11, 1942).

The flyer of the Victory Party, organized under the auspices of the Utah Association of the Deaf, was distributed during World War II on May 9, 1942

About one hundred twenty Deaf people, representing the Utah Association of the Deaf, attended the event. California, Montana, Wyoming, Arizona, and Utah were among the states represented at the event. High school students and Utah School for the Deaf teachers were also in attendance. One of the students performed a patriotic program for the members, including songs and a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance (The Ogden Standard Examiner, May 11, 1942).

During that time, many Deaf parents had sons serving in the military. Their contribution was not just financial but also a demonstration of their deep patriotism toward Uncle Sam. They chose to give rather than wave flags, believing they had already received so much from their homeland (The Ogden Standard Examiner, May 11, 1942).

The combined contributions of everyone raised a significant amount of $158.00 at the time. Former superintendent Frank M. Driggs and head teacher Max Woodbury of the Utah School for the Deaf, along with members of the school's board of trustees and the Chamber of Commerce, played a crucial role in the growth of their organization. The National Association of the Deaf received this amount, demonstrating the impact of everyone's collective efforts (Cole, The Ogden Standard Examiner, August 27, 1944).

The flyer was created by the Victory Fund of the National Association of the Deaf during World War II in the 1940s

A letter from the Victory Fund of the National Association of the Deaf, written by its President Bryon B. Burnes, to Justina Keeley on September 16, 1942

Thirteenth Biennial Convention
September 2-3, 1944
Ben Lomond Hotel, Ogden

The Utah Association of the Deaf hosted its thirteenth biennial convention at the Ben Lomond Hotel. Three hundred thirty-one people attended the event, which aimed to unite the Utah Deaf community and address important issues. This event incurred higher costs than previous UAD events, with a per-participant cost of $2.25 (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

Ned C. Wheeler, UAD President

The gathering was primarily for conducting business. New officers needed to be elected because there was no convention in 1942. The election process was democratic, with each member having a say in the decision. In addition to the election, several important topics were discussed, including the living situations of Deaf people and the employer-employee relationship. Ned C. Wheeler of Ogden succeeded Joseph B. Burnett as president, bringing a new wave of hope and optimism to the Utah Deaf community. Ned aimed to improve Deaf people's living situations and the employer-employee relationship, promising a brighter future for the community (Ogden Standard Examiner, 1944). A large number of Deaf persons were engaged at various government war plants during that time (Cole, The Ogden Standard Examiner, August 27, 1944).

Deaf Leader Tells Association Aims. Ogden Standard-Examiner, 1944

George L. Laramie presented a reading on the post-war work conditions for Deaf people (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963, p. 13). The main focus of the presentation was the postwar employment of Deaf individuals in Utah (The Salt Lake Tribune, September 4, 1944). Superintendent Boyd E. Nelson of the Utah School for the Deaf delivered a speech on 'Deaf Employment' during the same time (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963, p. 13). He encouraged Deaf individuals to utilize their impressive productivity track record established during the war to secure jobs after the war. He referenced statistics from a US Civil Service survey, which showed that Deaf individuals have a low absenteeism rate, high productivity, and a consistent tendency to stay with the same company (Ogden Times, September 8, 1944).

The program of the 13th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, September 2, 1944

"The deaf in Utah are among the finest citizens," Superintendent Boyd Nelson proclaimed. "You must first establish a good reputation for yourself, then maintain good habits to satisfy an employer. It will greatly benefit you to interact with and understand people in order to hold a position" (The Ogden Standard Examiner, September 4, 1944).

"One of the most common challenges for deaf individuals is the improper use of the English language," stated Superintendent Boyd Nelson. "Therefore, it is important for the deaf community in Utah to have a good command of English in order to secure employment." Superintendent Nelson's statement highlighted the need for Deaf individuals to enhance their English language skills to improve their chances of finding and keeping jobs. Many Deaf individuals who are unable to understand a boss are forced to communicate in writing. Superintendent Nelson encouraged them to be disciplined and willing workers, ensuring they could find employment (The Ogden Standard Examiner, September 4, 1944).

Boyd Nelson, USDB Superintendent

Charles Buck, D. Hart Wenger, Kenneth C. Burdett, and Carlos Seegmiller, all notable figures in the history of the Utah Association of the Deaf, presented different perspectives on a particular topic (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

Joseph B. Burnett and Kenneth C. Burdett from Ogden showed their unwavering commitment to the UAD standing committee. They were responsible for studying postwar job options for the deaf in Utah and submitting recommendations to the UAD (The Ogden Standard Examiner, September 4, 1944; Ogden Times, September 8, 1944).

The banquet and dance took place at the Ben Lomond Hotel on a Saturday evening (UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963). Joseph B. Burnett served as the toastmaster during the banquet. The audience enjoyed the following program:

"Star Spangled Banner," performed by Irene Liddel and Mary Antonietti
"Employment of the Deaf," presented by Boyd E. Nelson from the Utah School for the Deaf
"The First UAD Convention," presented by Paul Mark
"Preparing for a Date, "Pantomime," performed by Robert Welsh (UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

A ribbon of the 13th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, September 2, 1944

Report of Treasurer Verl W. Thorup for the 1944 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

Fourteenth Biennial Convention
August 30-September 1, 1946
Newhouse Hotel, Salt Lake City

At the fourteenth biennial convention, President Ned C. Wheeler, a civil engineer, presented a report on promising activities aimed at establishing an Interstate High School for the Deaf. This initiative has the potential to significantly enhance the educational landscape for the Utah Deaf community, fostering a sense of hope and optimism for a brighter future (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

The program of the 14th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, August 30-September 1, 1946

In the Intermountain region, the Utah Association of the Deaf emphasized the urgent need for better educational facilities and more specialized vocational training for the deaf. They pointed out that current vocational courses in schools for the Deaf were not up to par and were falling far behind. The association urged for immediate action, requesting that Deaf students be given the same educational opportunities as hearing high schools. They firmly believed that vocational training for Deaf individuals is essential for them to compete in today's highly specialized industry (Deaf Seek Higher Education, Better Vocational Training, 1946).

A ribbon of the 14th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, August 30-September 1, 1946

A reminder of the 14th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf Banquet, August 30, 1946

The Utah Association of the Deaf proposed the establishment of a central high school for Deaf individuals in Utah and five other states as the optimal approach for deaf education in the future. The proposal was based on the belief that a centralized school would facilitate better resource allocation, access to more specialized teachers, and a larger peer group for social interaction. UAD put forth the following resolutions for the 14th Biennial Convention:

#1. WHEREAS, it has been proposed that an Inter-State High School for the Deaf be set up for the purpose of higher education and more specialized vocational training; and

WHEREAS, the Utah Association of the Deaf feels it is important that the deaf students be given the opportunity of acquiring an education on level with that of the hearing high-schools and to acquire vocational training which will enable them to compete in the highly specialized industry of today; and

WHEREAS, industrial progress has left present vocational courses in schools for the deaf behind; and

WHEREAS, be it resolved that we, the members of the Utah Association of the Deaf, in convention assembled this thirty-first day of August, 1946, that the future education of the deaf could best be provided for by,

A central High School for the Deaf people of Utah, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Nevada and Colorado,
That the state schools for the deaf now exist, retain the elementary grades of these schools,
That said proposed school be located in an industrial city of 50,000 or more populated; near a college or junior college of accredited standing near a medical center of good reputation; centrally located at a school with traditionally good standards.

The Proposes Resolution Handout was presented at the 14th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, which took place from August 30-September 1, 1946

#2. WHEREAS, the deaf children now in the Utah School for the Deaf will be the adult deaf of the future, and

WHEREAS, it appears the position of principal of the Utah School for the Deaf will soon be vacant, and

WHEREAS, there appears to be no duly qualified person in field with the State of Utah,

THEREFORE, be it resolved that the interest of the deaf students, as well as the adult deaf, requires a person of outstanding background in the field of education of the deaf, fluent in the use of the sign language, for this position, and

THEREFORE, be it resolved that we, the members of the Utah Association of the Deaf, in convention assembled this thirty-first day of August, 1946, support Superintendent Boyd E. Nelson in any move he may make to secure a well qualified person for this position and in his other efforts to improve the school we extend our full-hearted cooperation and support.

#3. Be it resolved that we feel the State of Utah should make a permanent practice of having at least one member of the School for the Deaf Advisory Committee chosen from the deaf population of Utah.

The Resolutions Committee

Ned C. Wheeler, Chairman
Joseph B. Burnett
George L. Laramie
Eugene Plumby
John W. Glassett
Earl L. Rogerson
(The Utah Association of the Deaf Proposed Resolutions Handout, Aug 30 – Sept 1, 1946).

The program of the 14th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, August 30-September 1, 1946

The proposed resolutions were unanimously approved by the UAD convention. President Wheeler requested that the UAD purchase a plaque to honor the outstanding academic achievement of the Utah School for the Deaf. The plaque will bear the winner's name, and the winner will be presented with a key or emblem in recognition of their accomplishment (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

E. Ross Thurston succeeded Ned C. Wheeler as president of the Utah Association of the Deaf. He continued advocating for Deaf people to take vocational courses, emphasizing the importance of these courses in equipping Deaf individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today's highly specialized industries ("Deaf Seek Higher Education, Better Vocational Training," 1946).

Deaf Seek Higher Education, Better Vocational Training. E. Ross Thurston advocates vocational courses for Deaf. Publication Unknown

The history of the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing traces back to 1946, when Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, also known as 'Sandie' and 'Bob' to his friends, proposed the idea of a gathering place for the Utah Deaf community. In his book 'A Brief History of the Origins of the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing,' Dr. Sanderson details how the Utah Association of the Deaf first discussed the idea of a Deaf meeting place at the 1946 convention. At that time, Dr. Sanderson, who lived in Nevada, attended a convention where he observed Deaf individuals debating the establishment of their own 'Club for the Deaf' to set their own rules and meet at their convenience. The Utah Deaf community, noting the presence of deaf clubs in most major cities, questioned why such a club did not exist in Utah, particularly in Salt Lake City and Ogden. The book's author, Bob, was unconcerned with their ideas because he was living in Nevada at the time (Sanderson, 2004, p. 1-2). Nonetheless, his book sheds light on these early discussions and the eventual realization of the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

It was not until 1962 that the Utah Association of the Deaf began to work with the legislature at the Utah State Capitol to get funds to create deaf services, which led to the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center. The Utah Association for the Deaf, comprised of dedicated members and officials, worked tirelessly for 40 years, from 1962 to 1992, to establish this community center. Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, W. David Mortensen, and the Utah Deaf community played vital roles in the political process to ensure that the center meets all our communication and accessibility needs. Despite facing challenges such as the 1977 mix-up bill and losing priority to the dairy barn in 1981, their perseverance led to the establishment of the Sanderson Community Center, a one-of-a-kind establishment, which is a valuable asset that we are fortunate to have.

Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, 1941

Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

W. David Mortensen, 1949

Fifteenth Biennial Convention
September 3-5, 1948
Newhouse Hotel, Salt Lake City

The fifteenth biennial convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf took place at the Newhouse Hotel from September 3-5. Members from all over the state gathered to address important issues. The convention included discussions on concerns such as Deaf peddlers, the poor conditions at the Utah School for the Deaf, and the association with the National Association of the Deaf. This gathering demonstrated their unified commitment to addressing everyday challenges (Salt Lake Tribune, 1948).

The tentative program of the 15th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, September 3-5, 1948

E. Ross Thurston, a proactive leader, addressed the concerns of Deaf peddlers who were seen as 'beggar-peddlers' or 'sympathy peddlers' at the convention. The Utah Association of the Deaf recognized that this issue could impact the career opportunities of Deaf individuals (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963). To address this, the UAD took immediate action to reassure its members and the public, instilling confidence in their community.

The program of the 15th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, September 3-5, 1948

President Thurston expressed concern that Deaf peddlers, who relied on public sympathy rather than their own ability to earn a living, were being unfairly labeled as harmful ("Association of Deaf Rap' Sympathy Peddlers," September 8, 1948).

"Even some hearing beggars are pretending to be Deaf to get sympathy because they know they can easily receive 'handouts," President Thurston stated ("Association of Deaf Rap' Sympathy Peddlers," September 8, 1948).

A ticket for the 15th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, September 3-5, 1948

During the convention, there was much talk about the condition of the Utah School for the Deaf. People were unhappy with the school because they felt that the teachers weren't qualified, received low salaries, and weren't taking good care of the children in the educational program. Superintendent Boyd E. Nelson of the Utah School for the Deaf was asked to address these concerns. Even though he was willing to answer questions, the outcome of the round-table discussion was considered unsatisfactory (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

Association of Deaf Rap 'Sympathy Peddlers.' E. Ross Thurston, president (left) of Utah Assocation of the Deaf, Gladys Hind, trustee (center) and Dora B. Laramie, treasurer (right) look over program plans of the UAD Convention, which open in the Newhouse Hotel. September 3, 1948 Publication Unknown

During a discussion, E. Ross Thurston claimed that conditions at the Utah School for the Deaf were "deplorable," and the school had "unqualified teachers" who were paid a low salary. The children were neglected in the educational program. Superintendent Nelson and Elizabeth Fruewald, president of the USD teachers' association, were rebuked (Ogden Standard Examiner, September 4, 1948). Superintendent Nelson refuted the claim that the USD's conditions were appalling. "We have one of the best-qualified and best-paid teaching staff in school for the deaf in America," he defended the school. "The record of our teachers' qualifications and pay is open for public review by any and all interested parties," he continued. Mr. Thurston did not conduct such an inspection" (Deaf School Head Denies Charge of 'Deplorable Conditions,' 1948).

A Ribbon of the 15th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, September 3-5, 1948

"The Utah institution ranks at the top compared to other similar schools nationwide," said Elizabeth Fruewald in response to Ross' claims. "We have one of the most qualified and highly-paid teaching staff in deaf schools in America," she added (Ogden Standard-Examiner, September 4, 1948). She invited anyone to come into their classes and observe how the children are taught for themselves. Furthermore, she stated that they had nothing to hide. "The school is open, as it always has been, to inspection by any party interested in the truth as it exists," Superintendent Nelson continued (The Ogden Standard Examiner, September 4, 1948).

During the business meeting, a proposal was made to end the Utah Association of the Deaf's affiliation with the National Association of the Deaf. However, despite the challenges and uncertainties, UAD remained steadfast in recognizing the affiliation as a form of insurance for their protection during difficult times related to the well-being of Deaf people. The motion was defeated, serving as a testament to their resilience and determination. This outcome inspired hope for the future of the association and its members (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

Newspaper articles concerning the Deaf peddlers

The convention was not just about serious discussions and debates. It also included opportunities for socializing and entertainment. Kenneth C. Burdett chaired the annual "get-acquainted" dance, which began Friday night. On Saturday evening, a banquet and a floor show were held, overseen by Georgia Walker and George L. Laramie, respectively. These activities helped foster a sense of community and camaraderie among the attendees (The Salt Tribune, 1948).

In the 1948 convention, Rodney W. Walker from Salt Lake City was elected president, succeeding E. Ross Thurston. In his first year as president, he had numerous issues with Deaf peddlers selling "Manual Alphabet" cards. These cards contained a message with "sad" phrases on the back. The peddlers would pass the cards to customers and then collect money from them, only to disappear afterward (Walker, 2006).

Rodney W. Walker, UAD President. The Utah Eagle, April 1955

According to President Walker, the "activities of the compassion peddlers" cause "difficulty for the honest and respected deaf people of Utah," and the "stuff they sell is sold for more than it is worth" (Salt Lake Telegram, March 31, 1949).

As a result, on April 5, 1949, UAD President Walker issued a warning in the Salt Lake Telegram article "Give Them a Helping Hand, Not a Handout" against "out-of-state" deaf peddlers and impostors who had been active recently in Salt Lake City, Ogden, and other Utah towns (Salt Lake Telegram, April 5, 1949). He argued that the money should be used to maintain the Utah School for the Deaf and Gallaudet College running so that Deaf people can be educated and become respectable citizens of Utah and the United States. Many Deaf people have lived up to the public's expectations, with good jobs, families, and homes (Bulletin, April 1, 1949; Deaf Peddlers and Impostors, 1949).

Utah Deaf Returns Leader to Office. Rodney W. Walker (left), Salt Lake City, and John Glassett, (right), Murray, exchange congratulations after being elected officers of the Utah Association of the Deaf. Walker is reelected president and Glassett is elected vice president Publication Unknown

The Utah Association of the Deaf found that many of its members worked in groups led by a "sergeant" or "king" and received a small portion of the money they collected from people. These groups of "peddlers" were present across the United States at the time, traveling from city to city and state to state in groups. Each peddler would give most of their earnings to the "sergeant," resulting in a significant sum. For example, one beggar made $4,600 in 16 weeks, and another street peddler made $75 daily. A different peddler managed to earn $40 in just three hours of work (Deseret News, April 5, 1949; Walker, 2006).

Deaf peddlers were not just a local issue but a national problem. They appeared in Salt Lake City and other towns in Utah, often pretending to be Deaf in order to gain sympathy and easy money. Exploiting public sympathy and misrepresenting the needs and abilities of deaf people deeply offended the Deaf community. President Walker and the Deaf Peddlers Association were united in their belief that Deaf people were physically capable of working and earning their own money without the aid of others, and they were determined to address this issue (Walker, 2006).

During President Walker's leadership, UAD initiated a campaign against professional panhandlers in April 1949. The Utah Division of the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf, in partnership with the UAD, organized a public awareness campaign to address the activities of professional Deaf panhandlers. The campaign included an article titled "Do Not Give Money to Deaf Panhandlers and Imposters," authored by Rodney W. Walker, president of UAD, John Palmer, president of the NFSD's Salt Lake Division No. 56, and Robert Welsh, president of the NFSD's Ogden Division No. 127 (Rodney, Palmer & Welsch, The Bulletin, April 15, 1949).

President Walker wrote an article about Deaf peddlers and sent a copy to every newspaper publisher in the state of Utah. Some newspapers responded to his request to publish the article. However, despite the publications, a few peddlers in the Salt Lake City area continued to beg for money. They avoided making contact with any Deaf people because they knew that the Utah Association of the Deaf was against their practice of soliciting easy money when they were capable of working (Walker, 2006).

Sixteenth Triennial Convention
May 25-26, 1951
Newhouse Hotel, Salt Lake City

From May 25-26, 1951, the Utah Association of the Deaf held its sixteenth Triennial Convention at the Geneva Steel Plant in Provo, Utah. This iconic location, known for its rich history and contributions to the state, served as a fitting backdrop for their gathering. Almost one hundred fifty members gathered at the Newhouse Hotel for registration the following day. They boarded buses for the afternoon group tour, showing their unity and shared purpose (Geneva Steel Tour Features Deaf Meet, 1951; Utah Deaf Society Opens Conclave, 1951).

A Ribbon of the 16th Triennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, May 25-26, 1951

The Utah Association of the Deaf Presents "The White Phantom" and Variety Program, May 26, 1951

Byron B. Burnes of Berkeley, California, a prominent figure as the president of the National Association of the Deaf, delivered a truly impactful keynote speech at the banquet. His words resonated with the attendees, leaving a lasting impression and shaping the discourse of the conference (Geneva Steel Tour Features Deaf Meet, 1951).

Justina W. Keeley, UAD secretary, delivered a thought-provoking speech on the theme "Know Your UAD." The speech not only highlighted the history of the Utah Association of the Deaf but also encouraged a deeper understanding of its mission and values (Geneva Steel Tour Features Deaf Meet, 1951).

Justina W. Keeley Golden Anniversary: Salt Lake City Division No. 56. October 15, 1966

Rodney W. Walker was re-elected as UAD president (Utah Deaf Return Leader to Office, May 26, 1951).

During the convention's business session, the Utah Association of the Deaf achieved a significant milestone. It was approved to join the National Association of the Deaf Century Club, which was a testament to its growing influence and recognition. The Century Club was set to receive $100 from the fundraising parties, a substantial contribution to further support the UAD's initiatives (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

The program of the 16th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, May 25-26, 1951

In 1951, Howard P. Leatham, director of the Driver's License Division at the Utah Public Safety Department, reported in the Salt Lake Tribune on July 15 that most Deaf drivers were better than average drivers. He mentioned that they compensated for their hearing loss more cautiously than usual. Leatham also stated that Deaf people can legally drive in Utah (Salt Lake Tribune, July 15, 1951). The newly elected UAD Secretary, Eugene W. Petersen, denounced the slur against Utah Deaf drivers in an outstanding commentary on Utah Driver License Law in The Tribune of July 15. He mentioned that the Ford Times had just published an article headlined "The Safest Drivers in the World." They were better drivers because they drove defensively and avoided distractions like radios or conversations while driving. Eugene Petersen stated that they were proud of their record and knew they had to maintain it in order to keep their license. "The deaf as a group is to be commended on their driving record. Hearing people smug in their personal assurance of superiority could learn much from them," he added (Petersen, The Public Forum).

A letter to Eugene W. Petersen from E.H. Linford of the Salt Lake Tribune concerning the "deaf, dumb, and blind" label on July 19, 1951

Did You Know? 

What Deaf People Want

The Deaf do not desire governmental aid.

They seek only these things:

Education to the point of self-support
Guidance in how to “do for themselves” from qualified instructors.
Opportunity to demonstrate that they can hold jobs on merit, not pity
The privilege of paying their way and providing for their loved ones
The privilege of sharing responsibilities for the cost of federal, state, municipal and county governments with all other Americans.

The Deaf can hold employment without a doubt. Aptitude tests have demonstrated that Deaf workers outperform non-deaf workers in numerous cases. For example, industries have inescapable noise levels; others require manual dexterity, which the Deaf seem to have in abundance. – NAD publishing (The Utah Eagle, October 1951, p. 8).

Seventeenth Triennial Convention
May 28-30, 1954
Murray B. Allen Center for the Blind, Salt Lake City

The seventeenth triennial convention took place from May 28 to 30, 1954, at the Murray B. Allen Center for the Blind. The Utah Association of the Deaf hosted a banquet at the Newhouse Hotel on Saturday night, followed by a picnic on Sunday (Salt Lake Tribune, May 19, 1954).

President Walker emphasized at the conference that the Utah Association of the Deaf sought equal social and vocational opportunities and recognition of their capabilities rather than special treatment (Society of Deaf Waits Parley, 1951).

During his welcome address, Eugene Petersen compared the Utah Association of the Deaf to a volunteer fire department (The UAD Bulletin, 1954).

Utah Deaf Association Plan S.L. Convention, May 19, 1954. Publication Unknown

Kenneth C. Burdett expressed his gratitude to the National Association of the Deaf for their help in overcoming a ban on Deaf teachers, which had been a significant barrier for the community. He encouraged the UAD to collaborate with the National Association of the Deaf in opposing a proposed measure that aimed to prevent Deaf teachers from teaching in state schools for the deaf. He stressed the importance of a resolution that would acknowledge the accomplishments of Deaf teachers at the Utah School for the Deaf and challenge the efforts of oralists to require normal hearing for teaching the deaf. The UAD actively countered this discriminatory practice (The UAD Bulletin, 1954).

Kenneth C. Burdett

Mrs. R.L. Nixon, Miss Mary Eyring, and Mr. Briggs were welcomed at the convention (The UAD Bulletin, 1954). The UAD acknowledged that the absence of many younger Deaf people at the convention reflected a dislike for the UAD. The UAD officers wanted to know why, so they asked everyone who didn't register during the convention to write a letter or visit them with their reasons and suggestions (The UAD Bulletin, 1954).

President Walker has announced that the UAD Award, a prestigious recognition of outstanding contributions to the Utah Deaf community, has been given to Peter Green and Donna Mae Dekker since the last convention. This award is a testament to the UAD's commitment to celebrating the achievements of the Utah Deaf community. President Walker also noted that no award had been granted since 1954, as no qualified candidates had previously won, highlighting the high standards and significance of the award (The UAD Bulletin, 1954).

Dr. E. Allen Bateman

President Walker commented on the UAD letter to Dr. E. Ellen Bateman, Superintendent of the State Board of Education, regarding the selection of the superintendent for the Utah School for the Deaf and his positive response (The UAD Bulletin, 1954).

Rodney W. Walker was succeeded by Joseph B. Burnett as president at the Utah Deaf Meet in 1954. The Utah Association for the Deaf officials aimed to engage every Deaf adult in Utah. They observed that some people disliked the UAD because they felt it did nothing for them. To address this, they asked individuals who didn't register during the convention to write or visit them with their reasons. They also questioned the registration fee and the program itself. The officials requested that the Utah Deaf community examine the UAD's history and experiences in other states to understand that, although they were not on duty every day, they were prepared to protect and defend Deaf people's rights and privileges when necessary. They reminded the Utah Deaf community that the UAD had previously prevented legislation that would have prohibited Deaf people from driving and had recently thwarted a similar effort. The UAD had also improved conditions at the Utah School for the Deaf. Moreover, they recently supported the National Association of the Deaf in its successful fight to protect Deaf teachers from ill-informed and unfair attempts to require that all Deaf teachers have normal hearing. The officials emphasized that all these efforts required funding, such as paying a lawyer to represent the UAD before the Utah State Legislature, as well as costs for stationery, postage, printing, and duplication. The officers urged members to invest in the UAD as the best protection for their current favorable status (The UAD Bulletin, 1954).

John W. Glassett

The UAD Bulletin was launched in 1954

John W. Glassett suggested that the Utah Association of the Deaf publish a small paper three times a year to maintain interest in the UAD. The proposal received approval, leading to the launch of the "UAD Bulletin" in 1954 (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963). Anyone, whether a member or not, can read the UAD Bulletin online at UAD.org. It contains articles about the lives of Deaf individuals, including obituaries, births, weddings, and much more.

'The U.A.D. Bulletin' published its first edition in 1954

Bryon B. Burnes, known as BBB, the President of the National Association of the Deaf, spoke at the business session (Salt Lake Tribune, May 19, 1954). According to Byron B. Burnes' personal secretary, Miss Rene Epding, the National Association of the Deaf was founded to protect all Deaf people from unjust, unfair, and misdirected national legislation or executive actions. As a result, NAD sought direct support from state and local deaf groups, as well as individual members (The UAD Bulletin, 1954).

Bryon Benton Burnes, President of the National Association of the Deaf. The Deaf American, October 1964

The Silent Worker Magazine. In courtesy of Gallaudet University

In response to René Epding's appeal, a few UAD members subscribed to "The Silent Worker," a popular deaf magazine at the time, and joined the NAD. The Silent Worker was written, edited, and published solely by Deaf individuals. It served as a voice for the Deaf community, informing the public about their challenges and successes (The UAD Bulletin, 1954). Harry Sanger Smith, also known as Bob White, was one of the authors who taught printing and linotyping at the Utah School for the Deaf in the 1920s (The Silent Worker, April 1925, p. 359).

Harry Sanger Smith. The Silent Worker, April 1925

President Rodney W. Walker proposed the following resolution. It passed unanimously and was echoed by the National Association of the Deaf and many other state organizations.

"Whereas, the Utah Association of the Deaf recognizes the value of oral training for those deaf children who are capable of mastering oral skills, and

Whereas, it is a known fact that not all deaf children can progress satisfactorily in an educational system where oral methods alone are employed, and

Whereas, deaf teachers of the deaf by their example and their interest and enthusiasm, as well as by their ability to teach, have been invaluable force of good in the education of the deaf, and

Whereas, the services of deaf teachers are indispensable to the proper progress of many of the children,

Therefore, be it resolved, that the Utah Association of the Deaf condemns and deplores efforts of certain minority factions in the field of the education of the deaf to install rigid oral methods as the sole means of educating the deaf, and

Be it further resolved that the Utah Association of the Deaf will vigorously oppose any and all efforts to eliminate deaf teachers and replace them with teachers capable only of using the inadequate single-approach oral method of instruction."

Rodney W. Walker, president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, writes a letter to Elmor Brown, chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Utah Schools for the Deaf and Blind, concerning the selection of the school's new superintendent on April 16, 1954

The Deaf community in Utah does not view
their deafness as a personal tragedy but embraces
it as a source of strength and resilience. They
have a positive outlook and see deafness as a blessing, which is a testament to their unwavering spirit. The Utah Association of the Deaf's publication,
"Count Your Blessings!"reminds us of the many blessings we all share in life.

Count Your Blessings! 

So you are deaf? Well, are you working and earning a living? Are you healthy? Are you married and raising a family? Have you a good roof over your head, and a warm fire in the stove? Do you have an automobile, a television receiver, a washing machine?

There are thousands – even millions – of people who, even with normal hearing, do not have our blessings, if we may call them that.

Yes, we are deaf - but deafness has its compensations. We cannot hear bad music, nor the sudden, irritating blast of an auto horn; we cannot hear the endless television and radio commercials, the roar of jet planes, nor the barking of dogs and screeching of cats in the middle of the night.

As many employers are finding out, the deaf make better workers than the hearing in certain jobs where noise is a nerve shaking experience.

So, Goodbye, 1954. We have not done so badly after all (UAD Bulletin, January 1955, p. 1).

Representative Oscar W. McConkie, Jr. headed a special sub-committee that presented a thirteen-page report with recommendations to the Utah State Board of Education on August 2, 1954 (Deseret News and Telegram, August 2, 1954). The report proposed that the University of Utah establish a day school for children who were hard of hearing and improve the state's educational program for the deaf. It also recommended that the university create suitable training facilities for teachers. Despite the ongoing debate over whether to use oralism or sign language to teach the deaf, the report suggested using oralism initially, with the introduction of sign language, if children did not progress quickly enough with the oral method. Additionally, the state director of special education was to oversee all special education programs in the state, coordinate with relevant agencies, and enhance the current education program by emphasizing oralist teaching, the use of hearing aids, and additional vocational education (Deseret News and Telegram, August 2, 1954).

Incorporation of the
Utah Association of the Deaf

Since its humble beginnings on June 10, 1909, the Utah Association of the Deaf has been a pillar of support and advocacy for the Utah Deaf community. On April 19, 1956, the Utah Association of the Deaf officially incorporated, marking a significant milestone in its journey of service and dedication to the Utah Deaf community.

Eighteenth Triennial Convention
May 24-26, 1957
Utah Power and Light Company, Ogden

The Utah Association of the Deaf, a pivotal organization in the history of deaf education and advocacy, hosted its eighteenth triennial convention on May 24-25, 1957, at the Utah Power and Light Company in Salt Lake City, Utah. This convention marked a significant milestone in the UAD's history, serving as a platform for key decisions and discussions that shaped the future of deaf education and advocacy in Utah (Utah Deaf Association Opens Annual Convention in Ogden, 1957).

Ned C. Wheeler, a respected figure in the Deaf community, was chosen as the conference chairman and delivered a compelling welcome address (Ogden Standard Examiner, May 29, 1957; The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

The membership cards of the Utah Association of the Deaf date back to 1957

The highlight of the convention for the Utah Association for the Deaf was a symbol of cooperation within the Utah Deaf community. This symbol demonstrated the UAD's ability to achieve tasks that were once thought to be impossible. It also represented the UAD's dedication to modernization and keeping pace with the changing landscape of deaf education and advocacy. Notably, the UAD's efforts to protect the rights and privileges of Deaf children were acknowledged and celebrated in The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963, underscoring the UAD's advocacy work.

The Utah Association of the Deaf has made a significant stride in supporting deaf education by approving and establishing the Arthur W. Wenger Scholarship Fund. This fund, the only award funded solely by the students of the Utah School for the Deaf at the time, stands as a testament to the UAD's unwavering commitment to the future of deaf education (The UAD Bulletin, April 1958). Our pride in this initiative gives us hope for deaf education's future.

John Glassett's advice to members to choose directors carefully and not to complain later (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963), which is of utmost importance. It serves as a guiding principle for the UAD's future actions and decisions.

The program of the 17th Triennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf, May 24-25, 1957

On June 9, 1957, Robert W. Tegeder, a 34-year-old Detroit educator, was appointed as the principal of the Utah School for the Deaf (The Ogden Standard Examiner, June 9, 1957).

Former Utah School for the Deaf Superintendent Frank Milton Driggs passed away on February 12, 1959, at the age of 88 (Former Deaf School Head Dies in 1959).

Robert W. Tegeder, USDB Superintendent

The Bear Lake Outing sponsored by the Utah Association of the Deaf and Idaho Association of the Deaf at Lakota Beach, July 4-6, 1958

Nineteenth Triennial Convention
May 20-21, 1960
Prudential Federal Savings and Loan Plaza,
Salt Lake City

The nineteenth triennial convention, a significant event in the history of the Utah Deaf community, was held on May 20-21, 1960, at the Prudential Federal Savings and Loan Association Auditorium (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

Dr. David Peikoff, a prominent figure in the Deaf community as the president of the Canadian Association of the Deaf and vice president of the National Association of the Deaf, delivered a powerful message. He stressed the importance of cooperation between state deaf associations and the NAD, captivating his audience with his inspiring speech and engaging them with his anecdotes and humor (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

Deaf Leader [David Peikoff] Coming for S.L. Forum. The Salt Lake Tribune, May 6, 1959

Robert G. Sanderson, also known as "Bob" or "Sandie," the newly elected president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, firmly opposed a proposal to petition for a $600 federal income tax exemption for individuals with hearing loss. He declared that the Deaf Utahns are self-sufficient and economically competitive with normal hearing individuals. He emphasized their commitment to equality by insisting on paying the same taxes as everyone else. Bob proudly stated that they rejected government assistance as it could be viewed as an unfair advantage or as reducing them to welfare recipients (The Ogden Standard Examiner, June 2, 1960; The Salt Lake Tribune, May 29, 1960).

According to Robert W. Tegeder, the newly appointed superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf, not a single Deaf person is unemployed in Utah. The one hundred sixty-three Deaf students would be great candidates for the relief rolls if it were not for the Utah School for the Deaf. The Utah Deaf community, a shining example of resilience, was proud of its self-sufficiency. Superintendent Tegeder said that Deaf people could find work if they were adequately trained (Ogden Standard Examiner, April 7, 1960).

Ogdenite Elected Head of Association of Deaf. Ogden Standard-Examiner, June 2, 1960

The Problems Facing the Deaf Population

In early 1961, the Utah Association of the Deaf, seeking unity and shared goals, considered inviting parents to join the association. The UAD believed the association could benefit the entire community, not just Deaf people and their families. The invitation aimed to highlight the necessity of establishing common ground and building on three key developments:

The quality of hearing aids was beginning to improve, offering Deaf individuals the chance to engage more easily with those who can hear.
The number of individuals who became deaf later in life began to decline, while the percentage of people who were born deaf started to rise. By 1961, half of the adventitiously deaf students at the Utah School for the Deaf had developed a solid language base before losing their hearing. However, the number of congenitally Deaf individuals was increasing, and their language development was being affected.
Furthermore, there was a growing proportion of Deaf individuals with multiple disabilities.

The Deaf population faced significant challenges. The Deaf leaders, who experienced discrimination and oppression, empowered the Utah Association of the Deaf to address ignorance, misrepresentation, and oversimplification issues.

In the past, the Utah Deaf community relied on individuals who were hard of hearing, who learned the language before using hearing aids, and those who became deaf later in life but were skilled in oral communication. The UAD anticipated a decrease in the number of Deaf people who lost their hearing later in life in the future, with more Deaf individuals expected to have multiple disabilities in the future (The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1961).

If they are willing, UAD officials can assist parents in gaining a better understanding of hearing loss and the challenges their Deaf children may face as adults (The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1961).

In similar situations, the Utah Association of the Deaf committed to setting aside differences in communication methods and instead focusing on the significance of communication rather than differences in communication methods. Regardless of the level of education of Deaf individuals, the issues they confront today will likely persist tomorrow. According to UAD, Deaf individuals can continue to be self-sufficient, well-adjusted members of society rather than being viewed as requiring rehabilitation" (The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1961).

During his time with the Utah Association of the Deaf, Robert G. Sanderson became a member of the executive board of the National Association of the Deaf in 1960, where he served for fourteen years, from 1960 to 1974. He was the sole representative from Utah at the national convention in Dallas, Texas. His supportive wife, Mary, was a constant presence by his side, even joining him at the convention, which took place from July 3 to July 9, 1960, as reported by The Sun Chronicle on August 18, 1960. Their partnership was a source of strength and inspiration for the Deaf community.

Robert G. Sanderson Elected to State Post. The Sun Chronicle, August 18, 1960

Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf

The Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf, founded in 1890, was a long-time member of the Utah Association of the Deaf. UAD eventually learned that the organization's members included teachers, speech-language pathologists, parents of deaf children, hard of hearing adults, hearing aid dealers, and manufacturers. The list did not include Deaf adults (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1961).

Deaf adults who were affiliated with the Alexander Graham Bell Association agreed with its objective of enhancing education in speech and lip-reading. However, some had reservations about the organization's methods and its strong emphasis on oralism. Their opinions varied; some expressed concern about the association's firm focus on oralism. They disagreed with schools that prioritize speech and lip-reading over subjects like math, geography, and science for Deaf students. They were worried that this approach could hinder intellectual development if a student's oral skills were not up to par.

The Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf cautioned that exposure to sign language could reduce motivation to learn oral speech. In contrast, Deaf adults stated that a strictly oral approach often decreased motivation to learn. Deaf adults agreed that oral speech and general education should be learned together. They believed that language, rather than speaking, was crucial. A lack of a strong language foundation leads to poor communication and academic delays, emphasizing the importance of effective communication methods for the Deaf community (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1961).

Alexander Graham Bell @ Wikipedia

In 1961, Utah Governor George D. Clyde proposed a budget cut for the Utah School for the Deaf, posing a significant challenge. However, the Utah Deaf community, known for its resilience and determination, stood firm. The potential funding loss threatened the school's efforts to prepare students for a competitive career landscape shaped by technological advances. Past graduates had shown that every dollar invested in deaf education would be repaid in taxes. The UAD warned that the proposed budget cut could worsen future problems, but the community remained steadfast (The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1961).

In the summer of 1962, President Robert G. Sanderson appointed W. Richard Brubaker as chairman of the UAD Traffic Safety Committee. Brubaker planned, organized, and executed an aggressive campaign to make Deaf drivers in Utah the safest in the world. "Our overall record may be good, but if one Deaf person is involved in or injured in a traffic accident, it reflects on us as drivers," said Richard Brubaker. He worked with the Utah Safety Council and the Salt Lake City and Ogden police departments. His goal was to maintain Deaf drivers' accident rate at zero. A zero-accident rate, he reasoned, may persuade insurance companies to insure Deaf people, something they refused to do at the time (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1962).

W. Richard Brubaker. The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1963

Robert Sanderson, president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, wrote an article titled "Community Service for the Deaf," in which he emphasized the importance of community service not just for the Deaf but for the entire community. His words resonated with the audience, instilling a sense of pride and belonging, as follows:

“The deaf ordinarily seldom have the opportunity to participate in community service of the type that we associate with the Jaycees, the Rotarians, the Kiwanis, and various other organizations such as the Community Chest, United Fund. Yet we owe our community some service, for it is only service that we give freely and voluntarily that counts on that last great scorecard.

I have personally tried community service with the Jaycees, and, even with fair speech, (and lousy lipreading) it was not easy. To be very frank, even though I participated in some projects, even to getting out and digging post holes for street signs in my town, the great fellowship with others that is a part of the service is something that I missed. The communication barrier is simply too great. But I valued the experience, and I learned much.

For the deaf, the greatest opportunity for community service is right within their own organizations: The UAD, the UACD, the Frat, the NAD and the U-O. Here, among our own kind, we plan and carry out ambitious projects; we fight and haggle, eventually compromise, and still remain friends while we work on behalf of the deaf. For some there is criticism, for others, praise. Yet the greatest reward of all goes to he who can, with clear conscience and calm heart, say, “I have done my part, and have done my best.”

The President’s Service Award was given to those members who completed an assigned task, which was, in the president’s opinion, helpful to the UAD. Other awards will follow from time to time, when earned.

The members of the board, many of whom worked very hard on our projects, receive no award. The reason? You members expect your elected officers to work and to do their best. They realized that in accepting their positions. But the rank and file who pitch in and help when asked – they are the salt of the earth and deserve recognition for their efforts. He who would serve quickly finds that it is a rough road. There are those who honestly differ with the leadership, and earn respect with their opposition; and there are those who criticize for the sake of criticism, or to hear themselves talk. All through the conflicts of personalities and idea, whoever, we must and do remain friends.” – R.G.S. (Sanderson, UAD Bulletin, Spring 1961, p. 6).

Robert Sanderson was actively involved in various organizations during his lifetime, including the Utah Association of the Deaf, the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf (Ogden Division No. 127), Ogden Elks Lodge #179, Ogden Engineers Club, and the United States Junior Chamber of Commerce (The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1964). His dedication and efforts led him to serve as the president of the National Association of the Deaf and as a member of the Gallaudet University Board of Trustees in his later years. His impact on the Utah Deaf Community has been significant and continues to be felt today.

'Deaf Persons in Utah Are Self-Supporting.' Ogden Standard-Examiner, April 7, 1960

Junior National Association
of the Deaf Launched

The Utah School for the Deaf made significant progress towards its goal of training Deaf students in leadership skills in the summer of 1962. The establishment of the Junior National Association of the Deaf was more than just a new undertaking; it represented a source of hope and positivity. It serves as evidence of the school's unwavering dedication to its students and the Deaf community as a whole, igniting a new wave of leaders and advocates with hope and inspiration (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1962).

The Dual-Track Program at the
Utah School for the Deaf has had an Impact
on the Utah Association for the Deaf

Robert G. Sanderson, a leader of great impact, first got involved with the Utah Association of the Deaf in 1954. He served as secretary for six years. He won the presidency in 1960 and remained in that role for three years, until 1963. His advocacy extended beyond deaf education to civil and accessibility rights. Bob was a pioneer in the deaf education field, advocating for it as early as 1955, marking a significant milestone in the history of this cause. His innovative ideas and unwavering commitment marked his pioneering role in the field, earning him recognition and respect. During his time on the board of the Utah Association of the Deaf, he engaged in conflicts with proponents of oral education, particularly Dr. Grant B. Bitter, who strongly advocated for oral and mainstream education. These conflicts, which often centered around the best educational methods for Deaf children, were a significant part of Bob Sanderson's advocacy work. The following section provides more details about this. Bob's dedication to the Utah Association of the Deaf, including his five-year role as president emeritus, remained steadfast for forty-five years, a testament to his deep commitment to the cause until his passing in 2012. Here's the story:

The Utah Association of the Deaf didn't learn about the changes at the Utah School for the Deaf until the first day of school, following the formation of the Junior National Association for the Deaf in the summer of 1962. Despite the lack of communication, the Jr. NAD persevered and provided leadership opportunities for the older sign language Deaf students at Ogden's residential campus. This is how the Utah School for the Deaf implemented the dual-track program without informing the Utah Association of the Deaf, a significant oversight that would profoundly shape their perspective and the future of deaf education.

In the fall of 1962, the Utah Deaf community was surprised by the revolutionary changes at the Utah School for the Deaf, which introduced the dual-track program, also commonly known as the "Y" system. The unexpected change had a profound impact on the education of Deaf children, evoking a sense of empathy within the community. The Utah Association of the Deaf, which advocated for sign language, was unaware that the Utah Council for the Deaf had spearheaded the change, advocating for speech-based instruction and successfully pushing for its implementation at the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah (The UAD Bulletin, Fall-Winter 1962). The dual-track program provided an oral program in one department and a simultaneous communication program in another department, which was later replaced by a combined system. However, the dual-track policy mandated that all Deaf children begin with the oral program (The Utah Eagle, February 1968; Gannon, 1981). The Utah State Board of Education, a key player in educational policy, approved this policy reform on June 14, 1962, with endorsement from the Special Study Committee on Deaf Education (The Ogden Standard-Examiner, June 14, 1962; Wight, The Ogden Standard-Examiner, October 19, 1970). The newly hired superintendent, Robert W. Tegeder, accepted the parents' proposals and initiated changes to the school system (The UAD Bulletin, Fall-Winter, 1962; Grant Bitter: Everett L. Cooley Oral History Project, March 17, 1987). This new program not only affected the lives of Deaf children but also their families.

The "Y" system, part of the dual-track program, imposed significant restrictions and challenges on students and their families. This system separated learning into two distinct channels: the oral department, which focused on speech, lipreading, amplified sound, and reading, and the simultaneous communication department, which emphasized instruction through the manual alphabet, signs, speech, and reading. Initially, all Deaf children were required to enroll in the oral program for the first six years of their schooling (The Utah Eagle, February 1968). Parents and Deaf students did not have the freedom to choose the program until the child entered 6th or 7th grade, at which point they could either continue in the oral department or transition to the simultaneous communication department (The Utah Eagle, February 1968; Dr. Grant B. Bitter's Paper, 1970s; Deanne Kinner Montgomery, personal communication, May 4, 2024).

During the 1962–63 school year, some changes were made at the Utah School for the Deaf without informing the Deaf students. When the students arrived at school in August, they were surprised to find out about the changes. These changes caused a lot of anger among older students, as well as many disagreements between veteran teachers and the Utah Deaf community. Barbara Schell Bass, a long-serving Deaf teacher at the Utah School for the Deaf, said that the students' physical and methodological separation had painful consequences. Many teachers lost their friendships due to philosophical disagreements, classmates isolated themselves from each other, and administrators struggled to divide their loyalties (Bass, 1982).

Following the 1962 protest against social segregation between oral and sign language students on Ogden's residential campus, Dr. Grant B. Bitter, a steadfast advocate for oral and mainstream education, and his oral supporters suspected that the Utah Association of the Deaf had organized the student strike. The Utah State Board of Education conducted an investigation but found no evidence of any connection between the students and the Utah Association for the Deaf (Sanderson, The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963; Kenneth L. Kinner, personal communication, May 14, 2011). In the face of societal segregation, the simultaneous communication students demonstrated their unwavering determination and courage by staging their own protests.

Dr. Grant B. Bitter. The Utah Eagle, October 1962

Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, who served as the president of the Utah Association of the Deaf from 1960 to 1963, denied any involvement in a strike during his tenure. He maintained that the strike was a spontaneous reaction by students who felt that the conditions, restrictions, and personalities at the Utah School for the Deaf had become intolerable (Sanderson, The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963). In the Fall-Winter 1962 issue of the UAD Bulletin, the Utah Association of the Deaf expressed its support for a classroom test of the dual-track program at the Utah School for the Deaf. However, they openly opposed complete social isolation, interference with religious activities, crippling the sports program, and intense pressure on children in the oral program to comply with the "no signing" rule (UAD Bulletin, Fall-Winter 1962, p. 2). The dual-track program's implementation marked a dark chapter in the history of deaf education in Utah.

The dual-track program also divided Ogden's residential campus into an oral department and a simultaneous communication department, each with its own classrooms, dining halls, dormitory facilities, recess periods, and extracurricular activities. The shift in focus and the hiring of more oral teachers had a significant impact on the school's learning environment, altering its dynamics and atmosphere.

Moreover, Utah took a different approach to deaf education compared to other states, where residential schools were the norm. Instead of having children attend school on campus, Utah prioritized mainstreaming. In 1959, the Utah School for the Deaf established its Extension Division in Salt Lake City, Utah, to promote mainstreaming. Throughout the 1960s, the movement grew steadily in school districts. Since then, with the support of parents who advocated for oral education and integration into mainstream schools, the school has been a leader in mainstreaming students who are deaf or hard of hearing into local school districts all over Utah. This collective effort, along with Dr. Bitter's mission, spearheaded the mainstreaming movement and led to a significant shift in deaf education. Since then, the battle for deaf education has continued. You will learn about several deaf education resolutions proposed by the Utah Association of the Deaf at the conventions.

Dr. Grant B. Bitter's advocacy for the oral and mainstreaming movements sparked a long-standing feud with the Utah Association for the Deaf, a group comprised mainly of graduates from the Utah School for the Deaf, particularly Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, a prominent Deaf community leader in Utah who became deaf at the age of 11 and was a staunch supporter of sign language and state schools for the deaf. The intense animosity between these two giants was due to the ongoing dispute over oral and sign language in Utah's deaf educational system. Their struggle was akin to a chess game, with each maneuvering politically to gain the upper hand in the deaf educational system. Dr. Bitter and Dr. Sanderson, as did the Utah Association for the Deaf, engaged in disagreements during the listening and speaking demonstration panels, picket protests, education committee meetings, and board meetings. The Utah Association for the Deaf demonstrated remarkable resilience when faced with Dr. Bitter's challenges, marking a significant turning point in our history and inspiring others with their strength and determination. They fought relentlessly, eventually passing on the task of continuing the struggle for deaf education equality in Utah to the next generation. The next generation rose to the challenge and established four ASL/English bilingual programs in four regions—Ogden, Salt Lake City, Springville, and St. George. They made significant progress, providing a glimpse of the bright future ahead.

WHODUNIT? Von Jones, as Detective Wimple, center, pacing the floor with hand to head, ponders the mystery as other members of the cast try to look innocent in this scene from "The Black Derby," a 3-act mystery comedy presented by the Utah Athletic Club of the Deaf at the Blind Center on December 1, 1962. From left to right are Keith Stewart as John, the caretaker; Bob Potter as Ted Bronson; Carol Weenig as Betty Kay, a social girl; Leon Curtis as Mickey, "nobody special"; Darlene Stewart as Cora Kipper, the maid; Helen Potter as Jane Bronson; Dian Todd as the housekeeper; and Roy Cochran as Tom Randall, a college boy. Rodney Walker was in charge of chores. Photo by Keith Nelson. The UAD Bulletin, Fall-Winter 1962

Twentieth Biennial Convention
Name changed from “of” to “for”
June 28-29, 1963
Hotel Utah, Salt Lake City

President Robert G. Sanderson convened a general meeting on January 12, 1963, before the June 1963 convention, where Deaf leaders discussed the distinction between 'of' and 'for.' Some people perceived the term 'of' as an exclusive social club that isolates Deaf individuals. However, the word 'for' suggested consideration for others, inviting hearing persons to join the association. This change was a significant step towards inclusivity, fostering a sense of community and belonging, and making everyone feel valued and part of a larger community (The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1963, p. 2).

The Utah Association of the Deaf votes name change. The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1963

The association voted to change its name to the Utah Association for the Deaf to allow individuals with normal hearing to become active members with the right to vote and hold office. The only exception is that members of the executive committee must be deaf. Hearing individuals like Gene Stewart and Beth Ann Stewart Campbell joined the UAD. Utah was the first to change the tradition by converting the name from "of" to "for." The State of Utah officially approved this name change on February 26, 1964.

Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, UAD Bulletin, Winter 1970

Gene Stewart, UAD Bulletin, Winter 1970

The Utah Association for the Deaf, like the National Association of the Deaf and other similar associations, voted to welcome hearing individuals as active members. However, Utah was the first to break tradition by changing the name from 'of' to 'for.' This bold move, which UAD felt was long overdue, was a testament to their unwavering courage and determination. James H. Galloway, superintendent of the Rochester School for the Deaf, stated, "To achieve effective social action, the deaf will... have to drop the deadly idea that the deaf person lives in his own world, for the deaf person does not, never has, and never will live in a world of his own" (The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1963, p. 2).

Robert G. Sanderson. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963

The members also voted to have conventions every two years instead of three (UAD Bulletin, Spring 1963). G. Leon Curtis played a key role in organizing the 20th triennial meeting. He led the planning of the event with the assistance of Gladys Wenger, Kenneth L. Kinner, and Richard Brubaker (UAD Bulletin, Spring 1963). This collaborative effort, a testament to the unity and shared vision within the Utah Association for the Deaf, further strengthened the sense of community among its members.

The twentieth biennial convention of the Utah Association for the Deaf, which began with registration at the hotel at 5 p.m. on June 28, 1963, was more than just about business. It was a time for members to gather, socialize, and have fun. The dinner and dancing, held in the Lafayette Ballroom, were a testament to the community spirit of the association. Tickets for the banquet and dance, which included entertainment by John Rock and his Royal Family of Magic during intermission, were $4 each and could be reserved through any convention committee member. The new board selected executive officers and established operating procedures, marking another step in the evolution of the Utah Association for the Deaf (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963).

G. Leon Curtis. UAD President The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1964

Among the speakers present at the gathering were:

Dr. David A. Dolowitz, an otologist at the University of Utah School of Medicine, spoke about the Deafness Research Foundation Temporal Bone Bank. The UAD helped promote the Temporal Bone Bank Program and was ready to assist individuals who wish to donate their temporal bones to medical research that may help others hear (The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1963, p. 4).

E. LaMar Buckner, the former president of the US Junior Chamber and owner of Buckner Insurance Counselors in Ogden, discussed insurance options for the deaf community. He specialized in providing life, accident, fire, and motor insurance and focused on addressing insurance coverage issues for deaf drivers (The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1963).

Gladys Burnham Wenger. The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1963

Robert G. Sanderson, former UAD president, noted in the Fall 1963 issue of the UAD Bulletin that UAD still faced numerous national and local unresolved challenges. He outlined the issues and urged the incoming board to take decisive action after much debate.

Social Services:
We are working toward the solution of some of our most vexing problems in the area of social work. The deaf have been excluded from services available to the hearing because of the communication barrier. Progress has been made, and we hope shortly to make some significant announcements.

Rehabilitation:
Nearly all of the deaf are acquainted with the efforts of the State of Utah to handle this problem; yet one of the most basic needs has been neglected: That of having in the state service someone who is trained in the psychology of deafness as well as in the art of communication with the deaf in the sign language. We must work continually to make the State see this and meet it.

Peddling:
Peddlers are a continuing problem. Our efforts should be not aimed merely at suppression, but at assisting them with those problems that led them into the peddling racket. This is a complex matter, and its solution awaits attack on many fronts. Discrimination against the deaf in employment:
There are still many employers who will not hire the deaf. They must be educated into understanding that the deaf are an asset to any business, not a liability; but that they are human, too.

Insurance:
We must continue our efforts to persuade large insurance companies to change their blanket industrial policies which discriminate against deaf people. Personnel managers will not hire deaf people when it means the liability insurance premiums will be increased to the point that what a deaf person produces will not pay the difference.
We must also continue ... to accept the deaf as normal risks.

Education:
Better education of the deaf is the only answer to the displacement of the deaf by automation. The slowness of oral methods of training is a double handicap nowadays, when deaf people must overcome both a time disadvantage in the beginning of their education, and the need to absorb vastly more knowledge and technology in order to compete effectively in today’s competitive labor market.

Industrial Surveys
There is a need for a survey of all industries in the Intermountain area to determine which ones will accept the qualified deaf person, and which ones are forbidden by insurance regulations from hiring the deaf people. Such a survey might have the effect of opening up hitherto unknown sources of employment.

Adult Education
Whether or not there is a demand for adult education classes, and whether the deaf adults will cooperate, is something that must be determined. We have another, and somewhat of a family problem. Many of our young deaf people show no interest at all in UAD. I believe that it is up to each one of the older folks to meet and challenge their young friends to do their share, and carry part of the load. You must stress that today’s youth will be tomorrow’s leaders (we hope), so they had better start learning the ropes right now. They can learn how by attending with their ears pinned back several times. And if they are not quitters or gutless wonders, maybe they can show the stuff it takes to become leaders (p. 5).

Kenneth L. Kinner. The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1963

Bob Sanderson advised young people to learn about community service and fully support their organizations. He bluntly stated that the youth had adopted a poor life philosophy. He mentioned that they received a free education, and Utah School provided meals and lodging for the Deaf. They often received a free college education. When they entered the real world, they may have thought they could get a free job and money through Vocational Rehabilitation. Dr. Sanderson theorized that they believed they got everything for free because they didn't pay their UAD membership dues rather than realizing they were in a "membership" organization (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1963, p. 5). He also emphasized the potential for personal growth and fulfillment in community service, inspiring the youth to take responsibility and contribute to their community.

Bob declared at the convention, "To avoid making difficult decisions is to stagnate." He encouraged the youth to prepare themselves, emphasizing that no one else could help them unless they were willing to give up their dependence (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1963, p. 5). He also stressed the importance of taking initiative, empowering the youth to take control of their future and make a positive impact on their community.

Robert G. Sanderson Becomes the 17th President
of the National Association of the Deaf

During his time with the Utah Association of the Deaf, Robert G. Sanderson also served on the Board of Directors of the National Association of the Deaf for fourteen years, from 1960 to 1974. He eventually rose by being elected the 17th president of the National Association of the Deaf, serving two terms from 1964 to 1968. His most notable achievement was successfully challenging Bryon B. Burnes' 18-year NAD presidency, a significant move considering Bryon's iconic status in the eyes of many Deaf people. His challenge earned him a reputation as a powerful and inspiring advocate for the Deaf community, also including his 44-year role as president emeritus (Scoggins, NADmag, Spring 2012, p. 1; Newman, 2006; National Association of the Deaf, March 5, 2012). His unwavering courage, strategic thinking, and deep understanding of the Deaf community's needs and aspirations made him a powerful advocate and a beloved leader. Under his leadership, he and his assistant, Frederick C. Schreiber, an executive director of NAD, relocated the NAD headquarters from Berkeley, California, to Washington, D.C., in 1965 and eventually relocated to Silver Spring, Maryland, in 1973, leaving a profound and lasting impact on the Deaf community. Here's the story:

Sanderson Bids for NAD Helm. The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1964

Robert G. Sanderson is running for president at the 1964 National Association of the Deaf Convention

Robert Sanderson's involvement in the twenty-seventh biennial convention of the National Association of the Deaf, held from July 5–11, 1964, at the Shoreham Hotel in Washington, D.C., marked a significant turning point. At this convention, Arthur W. Wenger, the Utah delegate, addressed and nominated Robert G. Sanderson as the new president of the national association (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1964; The Silent Worker, July–August 1964). Considered gutsy at the time, Bob, the former president of the Utah Association for the Deaf, successfully challenged Bryon B. Burnes' 18-year NAD presidency, a significant move given Bryon's iconic status in the eyes of many Deaf people. This 1964 convention, with its historic nomination and election, revolutionized the National Association of the Deaf and set the stage for significant changes in the organization's structure and operations, which made it famous (Schein, 1981). He outlined the national organization's challenges and proposed solutions, including the relocation of the NAD headquarters from Berkeley, California, to Washington, D.C. His strong leadership in the Utah Association for the Deaf and the National Association of the Deaf was evident. His words, "I have learned that no one stands alone," resonated with the audience, showcasing the unity and support within the Deaf community in a powerful way (UAD Bulletin, Summer 1964, p. 1). He sought support from state associations and individuals and addressed audience questions. As a result, the convention delegates unanimously voted to move the NAD headquarters from Berkeley, California, to Washington, D.C. (Turk, 2019). Also, due to his efforts, Robert Sanderson won the election with his wife, Mary Antoniett's' consideration, help, encouragement, and solid support.' He became the 17th president of the National Association of the Deaf, underscoring the significant impact of the Utah Association for the Deaf on the wider Deaf community—a testament to the strength and influence of the Deaf community (Newman, 2006, p. 203).

Bryon Benton Burnes, President of the National Association of the Deaf. The Deaf American, October 1964

Sanderson Takes NAD Helm. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1964

Robert Sanderson's election as president made history and brought recognition to Deaf Utahns. To mark this significant event, a dinner was arranged on July 30, 1964, at the Ramada Inn in Salt Lake City, Utah, to honor Robert and his wife, Mary. About seventy friends attended the event, demonstrating the respect and admiration they command. In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Robert Sanderson expressed his profound gratitude for the election, recognizing it as a significant honor (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1964).

Arthur W. Wenger, a respected Utah delegate, was Bob Sanderson's official representative at the National Association of the Deaf Convention. He expressed his pride in contributing to the efforts to strengthen and expand the National Association of the Deaf. Joseph B. Burnett also spoke at the convention, highlighting the impact of automation and social changes on the Deaf community, as well as the challenges facing the National Association of the Deaf. At dinner, Ned C. Wheeler captivatingly recounted Sandie's life. At the same time, G. Leon Curtis, the president of the Utah Association for the Deaf, emceed the event and read an editorial tribute to Bob Sanderson from the Ogden Standard-Examiner (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1964).

A dinner in the Ramada Inn on July 30, 1964 congratulated the new NAD President, Robert G. Sanderson, and his wife Mary (center). Kay (Kinner) and G. Leon Curtis on left. Arthur, Edith, and Ned Wheeler (right). The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1964

Before Robert G. Sanderson won the presidential election in 1964, the National Association of the Deaf Convention discussed the relocation of the NAD headquarters on July 1–7, 1962. There was a significant discussion about relocating the NAD headquarters to Washington, D.C. President Bryon B. Burnes opposed Sandie's proposal to move the NAD headquarters to Washington, D.C. He was concerned that moving to Washington, D.C., would result in them losing their identity as an independent organization and becoming pawns of government bureaucracy. He expressed his desire for full-time staffing at the NAD office in California (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1962; Lawrence, 2006). However, Robert Sanderson, who chaired the NAD's Ways and Means Committee to oversee financial planning and resource allocation since 1960, disagreed with President Burnes (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1962). Sandie was concerned about logistics, including distributing NAD messages to members and securing continued support. He thought the NAD headquarters in President Burnes' home office in Berkeley was too far away and impersonal for Deaf individuals living in remote areas. Despite their best efforts, the state associations struggled to retain their memberships due to lack of resources, communication barriers, or other factors, and many Deaf youths and adults across the country had little or no contact with the major organizations. From a sociological standpoint, Sandie saw no option except to persevere and maintain enthusiasm (Newman, 2006; Turk, 2019).

As expected, the 1962 National Association of the Deaf Convention rejected the relocation motion (Schein, 1981). However, this did not deter Sandie's determination to establish NAD headquarters in Washington, D.C. His strong commitment to the organization's future was evident in his decision to run for president in 1964. He won the election by successfully moving the NAD headquarters from Berkeley, California, to Washington, D.C., leveraging his relocation platform. This move aimed to strengthen the organization's support system for future challenges. Despite the initial rejection, Sandie and his Ways and Means Committee persisted in their efforts to relocate the NAD headquarters to Washington, D.C. (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1962). After his presidential election, Sandie created a full-time executive director position and tasked Frederick C. Schreiber with managing the office. He also organized ten filing cabinet drawers holding NAD correspondence and other materials (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1962; Newman, 2006, p. 200).

Roy Man Elected President of National Deaf Association. Ogden.Standard-Examiner, July 27, 1964

Bob Sanderson, who was in graduate school at the time and stepping into the role of NAD president, entrusted his task to his assistant, Frederick C. Schreiber, an executive director of NAD, to relocate the NAD headquarters from Berkeley, California, to Washington, D.C., by January 1, 1965. This move was a financial risk but a careful plan, which demonstrated Bob's commitment and received full support from officials, including Frederick, who campaigned vigorously for him for the presidency (The Silent Worker, July–August, 1964; Schein, 1981; UAD Bulletin, March 2000; Newman, 2006). Frederick mentioned that the advantage of having the NAD headquarters in Washington, D.C., was its proximity to government offices for future negotiations on grants and contracts (Schein, 1981). From 1964 to 1968, Bob lived and worked in Utah, serving as NAD president and advocating for the Deaf community on both a state and national level (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1964). The National Association of the Deaf eventually relocated its headquarters to Silver Spring, Maryland, in 1973, a significant location for both the organization and the Deaf community (Turk, 2019).

Home Office Move...Robert G. Sanderson Elected NAD President. The Silent Worker, July-August 1964

Bob advised any Deaf person considering running for office in the National Association of the Deaf to prepare for hard work, acknowledging that it was a demanding job (Newman, 2006; National Association of the Deaf, March 5, 2012). Significant achievements marked Bob's tenure as president of the National Association of the Deaf. These achievements include successfully increasing the association's two-year budget by $45,000, reaching a substantial $2 million every two years, and arranging the relocation of the NAD headquarters from Berkeley, California, to Silver Spring, Maryland (Kent, The Deaf American, 1982). This relocation symbolized the association's growth and expansion. His leadership also led to Frederick C. Schreiber being appointed the first NAD executive director, who founded programs for young people such as Junior NAD, Miss Deaf America, and Youth Leadership Camp (Newman, 2006).

During an interview with Lawrence R. Newman, Bob shared that his presidential election was the highlight of his life, an honor he still appreciated (Newman, 2006, p. 198). Dr. Sanderson also reflected, "Today, I believe the NAD is much stronger than when I took over as president." The changes are positive. Our long-term dream of having a permanent, stable Home Office came true. The NAD is financially viable" (Newman, 2006, p. 200). Bob credited his success to his wife and sons, who put up with his frequent absences due to NAD work, his regular jobs, and his studies (Newman, 2006).

Frederick C. Schreiber. A Rose for Tomorrow: Biography of Frederic C. Schreiber

In the Spring 2012 edition of NADmag, a publication that shares important updates and insights within the Deaf community, Dr. Bobbie Beth Scoggins, who was the president of the National Association of the Deaf at the time, stated that Dr. Sanderson, who received the title "President Emeritus" for forty-four years from 1968 to 2012, was recognized as one of the most powerful and inspiring advocates during his tenure as NAD president (Scoggins, NADmag, Spring 2012, p. 1).

Dr. Sanderson's deafness has proven to be both a blessing and a driving force behind his impactful work. His contributions to the Utah Association of the Deaf, the National Association of the Deaf, the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center, interpreting services, and deaf education have been significant. The Deaf community has greatly benefited from his work, and Utah has recognized his exceptional leadership, lifelong commitment, and services. His legacy lives on through the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, ensuring his name is forever appreciated and remembered.

Dr. Robert G. Sanderson delivered the following quote at the National Association of the Deaf Convention in Seattle, Washington, in June 1974.

"Accomplished leaders have the inclination to be strong builder of leaders. They make development of new leaders their lifestyle. They continue to do a lot more through other leaders that hey personally developed. They are people who have been given challenges and responsibilities to grow up with values and goals. People who live with optimism, growing up and thinking they were born to flu. Our Junior NAD program seeks, solicits, develops and promotes such leaders." Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, NAD Convention, Seattle, June 1974 (Turk, 2019, p. 145).

Dr. Frank R. Tuck, a Deaf community leader, recognized Dr. Robert R. Sanderson and Frederick C. Schreiber as two of their Deaf leaders who rank among the finest educators in history. His leadership, considered on par with outstanding achievers such as George Washington, Abigail Adams, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Frederick Douglass, Susan B. Anthony, and Thomas Edison, is a source of pride for us all (Turk, 2019). We are fortunate to have Dr. Sanderson as our local leader. His belief in the potential of the Deaf community has shaped and empowered us—a fact that we should all be proud and appreciative of, instilling a sense of pride and appreciation in all who have witnessed his impact.

NAD executive director Frederick C. Schreiber is featured at his desk in the Home Office. The secretary mentioned that the stack of papers on his desk is often taller than it appears in the photo. Louis Val of Washington, D.C., crafted the NAD emblem for the NAD convention in 1964. The Tri-State Association of the Deaf then presented it to the Home Office. Jacob Manoogian took the photo. The Deaf American, December 1965

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and
the Voting Rights Act of 1965 Promote Inclusivity
in the National Association of the Deaf

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a significant milestone as it was when the National Association of the Deaf granted Deaf women the right to vote in 1964. This coincided with the election of Dr. Robert G. Sanderson as the president of the National Association of the Deaf in July 1964, a prominent figure from Utah. In 1965, the National Association of the Deaf took a significant step towards inclusivity and equality by allowing Black Deaf individuals to join and vote. Prior to this, the organization did not permit female members to vote or provide Black individuals with membership privileges. This change came after the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Since the legislative reforms, the National Association of the Deaf has made tremendous progress in creating a more inclusive community for all Deaf people, regardless of ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation. The new move also represented a turning point in the NAD's history, signaling a push toward inclusivity and equality. It also highlighted the NAD's unity and collaboration, which played a crucial role in achieving these milestones, reflecting its members' teamwork and shared vision of a more inclusive future. Finally, this shared vision provides hope and optimism for our community's future.

The UAD Successfully Inaugurates
Adult Education Classes for the Deaf

In 1964, the Utah Association for the Deaf and its community not only persevered but also experienced significant growth, marking a year of resilience and progress. The Utah Association for the Deaf introduced adult deaf education classes by collaborating with SLC Adult Evening School, the Community Services Council of Salt Lake Area, and the Utah Association for the Deaf (UAD Bulletin, Winter 1964).

Under the leadership of Joseph B. Burnett, UAD chairman, a significant milestone was achieved. He conducted the first class on Family Legal Issues at Salt Lake City's West High School, marking the beginning of a new era. Inspired by his pioneering role, approximately forty students attended the class (The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1964). This historic event was a testament to the community's progress and the importance of representation

The adult education program, a testament to the community's dedication, received resoundingly positive feedback from educational leaders. Deaf instructors Edith Wheeler and Pat Stone, encouraged by this validation, added pilot classes in English for Deaf adults on Thursday evenings. Additionally, Patricia Francis at the University of Utah Speech and Hearing Department introduced a speech conversation program for Deaf individuals with functional but decreasing oral speech. The community's efforts were further validated with plans to develop a permanent program to meet their accessibility needs (The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1964).

The Utah Association for the Deaf, in its commitment to inclusivity, sponsored a range of deaf-friendly programs such as subtitled movies and culinary classes. It also continued to work with the United Organizations to coordinate the social calendar (The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1964).

Joseph B. Burnett, instructor, pause at start of lesson in family legal problems. Attendance has average nearly 40, with many making the 80-mile round trip from Ogden each week to participant. The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1964

In 1965, the Utah State Legislature funded UAD's creation of a counseling and referral office under the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1964). This office eventually became the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Taylorsville, Utah.

Over time, UAD's nature changed from being laid-back to actively campaigning for issues and providing services. Many Deaf people reportedly failed to pay their UAD dues. As a result, UAD became a "service" organization rather than a "membership" organization, aiming to serve all Deaf people in Utah to the best of their ability (The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1964).

The Utah Association for the Deaf proudly presents Bernard Bragg at the Moench Theater in Ogden, Utah, on March 7, 1964. The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1964

Why are you deaf or hard of hearing? Doctors do not know why...yet. The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1964

Twenty-First Biennial Convention
June 18-20, 1965
Ben Lomond Hotel, Ogden

The twenty-first Biennial Convention took place from June 18-20, 1965, at the Ben Lomond Hotel in Ogden, Utah, and it was a significant event. One of the highlights of the convention was the first-ever UAD Award ceremony, which recognized individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the Deaf community. Larry W. Blake was the deserving recipient of this honor. His unwavering dedication as the chairman of the Community Services Council study committee on Deaf adults resulted in a state appropriation for services for the "forgotten people." This pioneering research ultimately led to the establishment of the Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1965).

Larry W. Blake, left, accepts the first UAD Award from President G. Leon Curtis at the 21th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association of the Deaf. Dixie Lee Nasfell is an interpreter for the ceremony. The award, a beautifully engraved silver tray, is presented to Blake in appreciation for his efforts in behalf of the deaf people in Utah. The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1965

The best comedy presentation, a delightful highlight, followed a quiet business session on a Friday night in years. It was a moment of shared laughter and joy, a testament to their community's spirit of camaraderie. Celia May Laramie and Renee Hallett, with their hilarious portrayal of a girl canceling a date, and Celia May's witty pantomime "The Farmer and the Rooster" brought smiles to everyone's faces. Roy Cochran and Rodney Walker's crazy barber chair act and the farce "Mail Order Bride" had everyone in stitches. Kenneth Kinner, Leon Curtis, Joseph Burnett, Lavern Burnett, Jack Peterson, and Cleo Peterson were the stars of the show, uniting them all in laughter (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1965).

Jack Peterson, Joseph Burnett, Lavern Burnett, Kenneth Kinner (front), Leon Curtis, Gleo Peterson play as principals. The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1965

Celia May Laramie performs “The Farmer and the Rooster." The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1965

During Saturday's business meetings, members expressed general satisfaction with the UAD's progress. The only contentious issue was strongly condemning Deaf peddlers (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1965).

A presentation on the Leadership Training Program for the Deaf at San Fernando Valley State College was delivered at the Saturday luncheon by Dr. Ray L. Jones (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1965).

Larry W. Blake and Robert K. Ward received honors at the banquet on Saturday. Mr. Ward, from the Utah Community Services Council, discussed poverty, its causes, and its effects (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1965).

Colorado Association of the Deaf member Robert J. Welsh, a Utah School for the Deaf graduate and a teacher at the International Typographical Union Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado, presented a brief discussion on automation and its consequences (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1965).

Robert K. Ward of the Community Services Council discusses the problem of poverty. Dixie Lee Nasfell, interpreter. The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1965

G. Leon Curtis reflected on his two-year UAD presidency and highlighted the following six important UAD projects sponsored from 1963 to 1965:

First, the cooking school – the ladies learned a few more tricks for Christmas. Vida White won first prize in the cooking contest.

Second, with the help of the Utah Fish and Game Commission, they had a fishing derby at the Weber County Memorial Park on the South Fork of Ogden River.

Gathering at the Weber County Memorial Park. The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1965

Third, UAD was able to learn more about politics. A political seminar was set up and speakers from both parties pointed out their views.

Fourth, UAD set up adult education classes for the deaf. Joseph Burnett was the first instructor; then nine weeks later, it was continued with two classes in English with Edith Wheeler and Pat Stone as instructors. It was successful.

Fifth, UAD managed to get the State Legislature to put some money in the Department of Public Instruction for the benefit of the Deaf adults. With the cooperation of the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, a counselor who will know how to use sign language will assist the deaf adults who have some kinds of problems such as marriage, financial, personal, work or job problems and so forth [Robert G. Sanderson was hired for this position on November 16, 1965].

Sixth, the UAD Bulletin was going strong as ever. G. Leon Curtis said, “The Bulletin is our best weapon. As the saying goes: “The pen is mightier than the sword.” UAD faced two problems. One was automation, as some Deaf workers will be laid off. They had no chance to progress because of no skills. Some will work on low incomes. Due to these problems, peddling has increased and was getting worse. The second problem was to get a home for the aged deaf. The biggest problem was money.

The 1965 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

Leon Curtis mentioned that oral communication was another issue and shared his opinion that it was quite problematic. He stated, "All we can do for now is wait. Time will tell. But I can assure you that we are all closely monitoring for unfavorable developments, and we will advocate for what we believe is right." Furthermore, he stated, He also said, “With our new counselor, many problems can and will be solved. There will be a program to help the deaf meet automation. There will be more educational programs for the deaf. The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation can and will support sending select deaf adults to a school in Michigan where they have a special program under the direction of the Michigan Association for Better Hearing. And through the work of the National Association for the Deaf there will be more possibilities for the Deaf” (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1965, p. 2 & 6).

Leon Curtis also reminded the Utah Deaf community of the Utah Association for the Deaf's work and emphasized the importance of UAD continuing to address obstacles faced by the Utah Deaf community. As the state's Deaf representative, he highlighted that UAD was established to tackle challenges encountered by the Deaf population and urged the community to continue supporting UAD in any way possible. In addition, Leon advocated for backing the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) (Curtis, The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1965, p. 6).

Robert J. Welsh. The Utah Eagle, April 1955

Newly elected UAD President Eugene W. Petersen understood that many Deaf people had valid reasons not to join. In order to clarify the situation and explain the association's perspective, the UAD highlighted 20 frequently made statements. The UAD wanted to emphasize that it is a non-profit organization that helps all Deaf people in Utah (The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1965, p. 2 & 3). The article "20 Reasons for Not Belonging to the Utah Association for the Deaf" by Eugene W. Petersen is attached (Winter 1965 UAD Bulletin, p. 2 & 3).

In the article "Straight Answers To Pointed Questions," you can find more information about the challenges faced by the National Association of the Deaf and the Utah Association for the Deaf in obtaining support from the Deaf community in Utah. The article also highlights the impact of new services for Deaf adults, a significant development discussed by Robert G. Sanderson, president of the National Association of the Deaf and Utah State Coordinator of Service for Deaf Adults, and Eugene W. Petersen, president of the Utah Association for the Deaf and editor of the UAD Bulletin. These services have not only improved the quality of life for Deaf adults but also strengthened the advocacy and support efforts of both organizations.

Eugene W. Petersen, UAD President

Twenty-Second Biennial Convention
June 23-25, 1967
Ramada Inn, Salt Lake City

Richard Brubaker chaired the twenty-second biannual convention of the Utah Association for the Deaf, which took place from June 23 to 25, 1967, at the Ramada Inn in Salt Lake City, Utah (The UAD Bulletin, Spring-Summer 1967).

The convention provided a new setting for old friends to reconnect, debate, and relax. Attendees also received reports, made plans for the next two years, and enjoyed outstanding entertainment (The UAD Bulletin, Spring—Summer 1967).

The 1967 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

Victor H. Galloway, originally from Arizona, spoke at the banquet. Although he was new to Utah, he was well-known nationally. After graduating from Gallaudet College, he pursued a successful career as an engineer. He was actively involved in several organizations. In 1965, he left his job to enroll in the Leadership Training Program for the Deaf at San Fernando Valley State College. Despite having the opportunity to pursue numerous high-paying engineering positions, he chose to advocate for the rights of other Deaf individuals, believing it would be more personally fulfilling (The UAD Bulletin, Spring-Summer 1967).

The Deaf Research Foundation produced the captivating film "Silent World, Muffled World," which the Utah Association for the Deaf showcased. The film featured captions with Deaf characters, such as Robert G. Sanderson. Also, it provided a rare view inside a living human ear as a surgeon performed an operation using a microscope (The UAD Bulletin, Spring-Summer 1967).

Saturday's agenda included electing a new board of directors to represent the association's interests for the next two years (The UAD Bulletin, Spring-Summer 1967).

After the banquet, a dance was organized, allowing everyone to "feel" the music. Ronald Perkins' renowned parents concluded the event with joy (UAD Bulletin, Spring-Summer 1967).

Victor H. Galloway. The UAD Bulletin, Spring- Summer, 1967

President's Message...22nd Convention of the UAD. The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1967

Peddler Warning Blankets State of Utah

The Utah Association for the Deaf still disliked Deaf peddlers and imposters out of mistaken pity. They were still peddling worthless trinkets and alphabet cards in Utah. To defend the Utah Deaf community's reputation, the UAD intervened. Over the course of a year, the UAD sent over 1,000 warning letters about Deaf peddlers and imposters to every restaurant, drive-in café, tavern, bowling alley, drive-in theater, department store, drug store, chamber of commerce, newspaper, and police department in the Utah Deaf community. The students from the Utah School for the Deaf also made the posters, which the UAD covered (The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1967, p. 2).

UAD President Eugene W. Petersen's "22nd Convention of the UAD" article provides additional information about the association's services to the Utah Deaf Community (The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1967, p. 4).

The officials of the 1967-1969 Utah Association of the Deaf convention. Members of the UAD Board of Directors: L-R: Kenneth L. Kinner, G, Leon Curtis, Joseph B. Burnett, Priscilla Burdett, Dennis Platt. Back row L-R: Roy Cochran, George Laramie, W. Richard Brubaker, Robert G. Sanderson, Ned C. Wheeler, and Spencer C. Hind. The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1967

The Utah Association for the Deaf Wins
the Bid to Host the 1968 National
Associationof the Deaf Convention

The Utah Association for the Deaf won the bid to host the 1968 NAD convention. The UAD sponsored the event, which was directed by the NAD. Previously, the NAD had restricted the number of states that could attend by splitting the proceeds 50/50 between the state organizations hosting the event. The NAD Board wanted more control over the convention and found that Las Vegas had the best facilities. As a result, under this new arrangement, the UAD handed over responsibility for the convention to the NAD (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1966; The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1967).

Dr. Robert G. Sanderson. The UAD Bulletin, Winter 1965

The 29th National Association of the Deaf Convention, an important event in the association's history, took place in Las Vegas from June 17 to 22, 1968. The convention, led by Robert G. Sanderson, the president and chairman, and Ned C. Wheeler, the chairman, was a huge success (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1968).

The appointment of Robert Sanderson, the first National Association of the Deaf president emeritus, to the Board of Directors during the convention marked a historic moment. His full board rights and privileges were a significant step forward for our community (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1968).

Frederick C. Schreiber presenting gravel to new NAD president, Robert G. Sanderson, 1968. Photo courtesy of Jerome D. Schein

Twenty-Third Biennial Convention
June 27-28, 1969
Ramada Inn, Salt Lake City

Robert G. Sanderson, who completed his term as president of the National Association of the Deaf, chaired the convention, with assistance from Robert L. Bonnell of Salt Lake City and George L. Laramie of Bountiful (The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1969).

President G. Leon Curtis led the ceremonies, kicking off the impactful workshop talks that began on Friday night. These talks, a crucial aspect of the convention, offered a vital platform for participants to share their thoughts, ensuring their voices were heard and respected. A subtitled film was also available for those who preferred not to participate (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1969).

UAD Schedules '69 Convention. The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1969

George L. Laramie. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1969

Robert L. Bonnell. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1969

Welcome To 1969 UAD Convention. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1969

Dennis Platt & ____

Kennth Kinner is picking up his convention registration

UAD President G, Leon Curtis giving a talk

The association hosted a popular, groundbreaking session at the convention on Friday night, featuring roundtable discussions led by Robert Sanderson. This innovative format, a first in the history of UAD conventions, was designed to encourage communication among diverse groups and gather their unique perspectives (The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1969).

The workshops provided a platform for members to discuss various topics. A diverse crowd eagerly gathered to share their thoughts. The roundtable workshop, in particular, allowed members to discuss their feelings and ideas about the Utah Association for the Deaf and its programs for the deaf, adult education, the Utah School for the Deaf, sign language versus oralism, rehabilitation, welfare, financial needs, employment, peddling, auto insurance, and many other issues that were of significant concern to the Utah Deaf community at the time (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1969).

L-R: Rodney Walker, _____, _____

L-R: Kenneth Kinner, Keith Stewart, _______

L-R: Donna Mae, ___, ___

L-R: ___, Johnny Murray, Marlo Honey

L-R: Jack White & _______

L-R: _____, ______, Rodney Walker, Valarie Kinney Platt

The resolutions from the Friday evening workshop sparked lively discussions during the Saturday meeting, as reported in The UAD Bulletin in Fall 1969 by Dennis Platt. The roundtable session effectively allowed the "voice of the deaf" to be heard. According to the new UAD president, Dennis Platt, this successful experiment might lead to more workshops organized by local or state associations. The UAD expressed hope of organizing similar workshops in the future (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1969).

UAD Convention attendees at dinner. L-R: Rodney Walker, Georgia Walker, Jack Peterson, Carole Garvos, Ned Wheeler, Edith Wheeler, Karen Williams, Norman Williams, ___, ____, _____, _____, _____

The 1969 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention

President G. Leon Curtis mentioned that the Utah Association for the Deaf had been busy over the past two years and has been fortunate to have a great board of directors. They have worked hard to serve all Deaf people in Utah. President Curtis was pleased to mention that both Robert G. Sanderson, a Deaf counselor in vocational rehabilitation, and Ned C. Wheeler, a member of the Governor's Advisory Board on Deaf Education, were serving on the state level (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1969, p. 2).

By 1969, more insurance companies were willing to insure Deaf drivers (The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1969).

The officials of the 1969-1971 Utah Association of the Deaf. Front Row L-R: Richard Brubaker, Valerie Kinney Platt, Joseph Burnett, Dennis Platt, Ned Wheeler, Back Row L-R: Robert Bonnell, Lloyd Perkins, David Mortensen, Robert Sanderson. Absent: George Laramie and Gene Stewart. The UAD Bulletin, Fall 1969

Twenty-Fourth Biennial Convention
June 25-26, 1971
Tri-Arc Lodge, Salt Lake City

W. David Mortensen and Jerry Westberg demonstrated unity by co-chairing the twenty-fourth biennial convention, which took place at Tri-Arc Lodge in Salt Lake City, Utah, on June 25–26, 1971.

Site of the 1971 UAD Convention, Tri-Arc Travelodge, 161 West 600 South, Salt Lake City, Utah. UAD Bulletin, Spring 1971

Before the convention, UAD president Dennis Platt presented a thought-provoking challenge to the members. He encouraged them to contemplate UAD's future direction, exceed their current accomplishments, and discover new areas where they could impact. He specifically urged them to express their ideas at the convention, which would provide a platform for their voices to be heard (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1971).

Dennis Platt, UAD President. UAD Bulletin,Winter 1970

On the first night, a workshop allowed most Deaf participants to communicate in their groups. On Saturday morning and afternoon, there were meetings and elections, which was a significant moment in the convention. The elections were conducted democratically, with each member having a voice in the decision-making process. W. David Mortensen emerged as the new president, which demonstrated his leadership qualities and the trust he had garnered within the UAD. During the two-day event, Dr. Richard Brill, Superintendent of California School for the Deaf, Riverside, spoke during a buffet luncheon. He was a well-known educator who spoke on "Education for Today's Deaf." Over one hundred thirty people attended the event. The event also featured music and dance (The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1971; The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1971; The UAD Bulletin, October 1971).

Dr. Richard Brill, Superintendent of California School for the Deaf, Riverside. UAD Bulletin, Summer 1971

The convention's resolutions were as follows:

To thank Donald Jensen and Jerry Taylor for their guidance and counseling of the USD chapter of the Junior NAD;

To thank the Utah State Board of Education and the Office of Rehabilitation Services for hiring a female counselor, and to congratulate Beth Ann Stewart for her excellent job;

To go on record as supporting the total communication at all instructional levels;
To thank Dennis R. Platt, president, and his board of directors, W. David Mortensen, editor, and his UAD Bulletin staff, and Jerry Westberg, convention chairman, and his committee members, for giving their time and effort;
To congratulate Robert Sanderson, winner of the 1971 Dan Cloud Award, for his dedication to the deaf of Utah;

To express appreciation to the late Dr. Moroni Brown and his committee for the many hours of study put into setting up the dual system at Utah School for the Deaf;

To express appreciation to KCPX Channel 4 TV for its public service in providing an interpreter for its morning news, and to ask the station to add an interpreter on its afternoon and evening broadcasts;

To bring to the attention of the Governor its serious concern over the omission of deaf people from the Governor’s Advisory Committee for Handicapped adults and minority groups;
To recommend to the University of Utah Department of Special Education and to the Utah State University Department of Communicative Disorder that courses on psychology on deafness, manual communication and the cultural and social aspects of deafness be offered to future teachers of the deaf;

To recommend to the Governor that Ned Wheeler be appointed to the Governor’s Advisory Council on Schools for the Deaf and the Blind when his term expires;

To require all instructors, houseparents and others having responsibility or contact in the Total Communication Department be required to develop ability to communicate in methods to be used in that department (UAD Bulletin, October 1971, p. 2).

W. David Mortensen, UAD President. Photo by Robert L. Bonnell

W. David Mortensen, also known as Dave, was elected president of the Utah Association for the Deaf. Similar to Dr. Sanderson, Dave had a significant impact on Utah. He has been a long-time contributor to UAD, showcasing exceptional leadership skills and a strong commitment to the Deaf community. Serving as president from 1971 to 1985, 1987 to 1991, and 1993 to 1997, his tenure was marked by numerous achievements. Under his leadership, UAD transformed from a small home-run business into a prominent organization with multiple programs, significantly expanding its reach and influence. His contributions to the UAD remain unparalleled, and his legacy continues to inspire future leaders (Dave Mortensen, Renae M. White, Don M. Mortensen, and Kristi L. Mortensen, personal communication, April 17, 2009).

Officials of the 1971-1973 Utah Association for the Deaf. Front Row L-R: Jerry Taylor, treasurer, Beth Ann Campbell, secretary, Lloyd Perkins, vice president, David Mortensen, president, Ned Wheeler, chairman. Back Row L-R: Robert Welsh, Leon Curtis, Kenneth Burdett, Dennis Platt, Gene Stewart, Robert Sanderson

Twenty-Fifth Biennial Convention
June 14-16, 1973
Weber State College, Ogden

Kenneth L. Kinner, the convention chair, and his committee meticulously organized the 25th Biennial Convention, a testament to their collective efforts, at Weber State College on June 14–16, 1973. They thoughtfully planned a preliminary to the three days of entertainment, education, and business, setting the stage for a successful event (UAD Bulletin, June 1973).

The 1973 UAD Convention Committee. Front Row L-R: Mary Sanderson, Valerie Platt, Darlene Cochran, Priscilla Burdett. Back Row L-R: Jerry Taylor, Kenneth Kinner, Dennis Platt. UAD Bulletin, June 1973

The UAD 25th Biennial Convention Banquet, June 14-16, 1973

After a three-day event, a banquet marked the conclusion of the convention. Dr. Jay J. Campbell, Deputy Superintendent of the Utah State Office of Education, delivered a heartwarming keynote address at the banquet on Saturday, June 16th. He presented his entire "Humanizing Education" address in sign language, receiving enthusiastic applause (UAD Bulletin, November 1973).

Dr. Campbell was a crucial ally to the Utah Deaf community by advocating for their causes, attending the convention, and regularly participating in deaf meetings and social events. His wife, Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, a sign language interpreter and prominent community advocate, always accompanied him. A live band playing dance music further enhanced the atmosphere, adding a special touch to the event (UAD Bulletin, June 1973).

Dr. Jay J. Campbell. UAD Bulletin, June 1973

The UAD Bulletin from November 1973 states that the 1973 convention adopted the following resolutions:

To transfer the Utah Association for the Deaf Scholarship Fund to the Utah Scholarship Foundation for the Deaf, at such a time as the foundation is formally organized and constituted, and that the UAD Board of Directors be authorized and empowered to carry out the transaction in the proper legal manner.

To take the lead in organizing a youth workshop, to develop talent and leadership, by forming a committee consisting of a representative from each organization for or of the deaf.

To form a committee to investigate and report to the UAD Board of Directors the need for a buddy system for the mutli-handicapped, and to investigate how members of this group may be more fully brought into the deaf community.
To commend the television station KCPX for providing an interpreter on its morning news, and to support the extension of interpretation to late evening news for a larger segment of the deaf community – the employed.

To commend the Utah Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf members for volunteering their time and talent at meetings and events such as Operation TRIPOD, UNIPOD and UAD Amateur Night and others.

To send a letter of thanks to the superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf for the use of its facility.

To send a letter of thanks to the bishop of the Salt Lake Valley Ward for the Deaf for the use of its facility.
To set up a committee to investigate the possibility of obtaining matching Federal funds for interpreters in senior citizen classes, and to report to the UAD Board of Directors for possible implementation.

To send letters of commendation to Donald Jensen and Jerry Taylor for the time and guidance they have given to the young people in Junior NAD at the Utah School for the Deaf, and also letters of congratulations to Sharadee Opheikens and Barbara Jeppesen for their prize–winning skit given at the Junior NAD Regional Workshop at Faribault, Minnesota. To send a letter of commendation to Robert Sanderson, his counselors and secretaries for their continued services to the deaf community.

The Friendship Night of the UAD Convention took place on June 14, 1973

To send a letter of appreciation for the continuing services of the main interpreter, Beth Ann Stewart and substitutes Gene Stewart and Madelaine Burton, on KCPX.

To send a letter of commendation to Kenneth Kinner and his committee for their wonderful planning of the 1973 convention.

To send a letter of commendation to Arthur and Ray Wenger for their distinction of being awarded honorary doctor of science degree at Gallaudet College.

To send a letter of commendation to Lloyd Perkins expressing the appreciation of the deaf of Utah for his efforts on their behalf in championing the use of total communication in education and religious program for the deaf in Utah, and in establishing training program for interpreters for the deaf at the Salt Lake Valley Ward for the Deaf.

To send a letter of commendation to the editor of the UAD Bulletin, David Mortensen and his staff, for the devotion on their part in improving the quality of the Bulletin so that it won first place in the publications contest during the 1972 National Association of the Deaf convention.

To send a letter of thanks to Kenneth C. Burdett for his willingness to print various matters for the UAD.

To send a letter of thanks to all the lawyers, the bailiff and the interpreters who participated in the Mock Trails.

To express its appreciation to Mrs. Dora Laramie for spearheading the movement to award doctorates to Ray and Arthur Wenger.

To go on record as supporting the use of interpreters for the deaf in public schools.

To confer life membership on Arthur W. Wenger for his example and for his activity in behalf of deaf people, which for many years brought recognition to Utah deaf people and their abilities to compete in the hearing world (p. 3).

At the 1973 UAD Convention banquet, Dr. Jay J. Campbell signs his speech on "Humanizing Education," and Beth Ann Stewart signs her rendition of "I." There Be Peace on Earth. UAD Bulletin, November 1973

The Utah Association of the Deaf
Sponsors Booth at Utah State Fair

In September 1973, Dave Mortensen, President of the Utah Association for the Deaf, along with his team of volunteers, including Art Valdez, Bridget Laramie, Nellie Sausedo, Bobbie Gavros, George Laramie, Richard, and Joan Brubaker, set up and decorated a booth at the State Fair. Around 66 Deaf people and interpreters worked at the booth.

During the heated debate over communication methods, a booth was set up to raise public awareness about the Deaf community and their achievements. The booth had two tables, four chairs, and two TTYs.

Throughout the ten-day State Fair, sign language interpreters performed "Old Country Road," attracting audiences to the booth to observe their signing. The State Fair drew 375,000 visitors, with over half stopping by the exhibit. This booth provided a new perspective on deaf issues, helped the community make numerous friends, and created positive exposure to the public (UAD Bulletin, November 1973).

Crowds gathered to see the mechanical TTYs and interpreters signing songs with music. Another booth operator, a few steps away, asked them to stop handing out the 7,500 ABC Manual Alphabet cards. The people who received the cards were too busy studying them to notice the items displayed and sold at the other booth (UAD Bulletin, November 1973).
President Dave Mortensen and Secretary Beth Ann Stewart Campbell awarded the UAD a trophy for taking second place in September 1974. UAD received the trophy for its non-profit organization display at the Utah State Fair (UAD Bulletin, December 1974).

The Utah Association for the Deaf
Intervenes with Deaf Peddlers

In 1974, the number of Deaf peddlers operating in Salt Lake City, Utah, increased. The Utah Association for the Deaf banned this activity due to its negative impact on the Utah Deaf community's reputation. The UAD urged everyone who encountered these Deaf peddlers to discourage their behavior. At that time, Salt Lake City had an ordinance prohibiting sales in the downtown area. Additionally, another ordinance required a $25.00 license fee per day (UAD Bulletin, December 1974).

The 1973 UAD Convention: I.. Top Left: Floyd Underwood, Elise Preece, Frank Monk, Stanley O'Neil, Edward (Ed) Bell, Bill Billeter & his father Fredinard Billeter, Ethel Kirk, her mate Albert Bray, and Lillian & Cyril Wheelock. 2nd left row: Von & Betty Jones, Marlo Honey's wife Elaine, Kay Kinner, Lucy & Virgil Greenwood, Knola Christensen, _, and Zelma & Arnold Moon. 3rd left row. Arvel & Berdean Christensen, Roy & Ruth Smith, Marsha Thruston, Jack & Cleo Peterson, Bruce Kampen, and Lavern & Joesph Burnett. 4th left row: Lloyd & Vynola Perkins, Everlyn & Max Hardy, Georgie & Wayne Stewart, and Diane & Keith Stewart

The 1973 UAD Convention: II

Twenty-Sixth Biennial Convention
June 19-21, 1975
Ramada Inn, Salt Lake City

The Utah Association for the Deaf convention chairperson, Fay R. Young, organized the convention, which was held from June 19 to 21 at the Ramada Inn in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The program of the 26th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association for the Deaf, June 21, 1975

The convention's focal point was the business session, during which the Utah Association for the Deaf showcased its unified voice and participation. The association developed resolutions to address its concerns, make decisions, and show appreciation. These resolutions, which date back to the October 1975 UAD Bulletin, serve as evidence of the association's enduring dedication and involvement, as follows:

To require that the dean of students at the Utah School for the Deaf be proficient in the use of American Sign Language and of SEE signs, within two years of his/her employment; and that such proficiency be formally tested by a panel of deaf person selected by the superintendent of USD and the UAD by mutual agreement.

To support an increase in quota payments to the National Association of the Deaf, if the Deaf American magazine will be sent to each member of the cooperating state association who pay such quota as part of his/her membership fee or dues.

To formally transfer monies in the UAD Scholarship Fund to the Utah Scholarship Fund for the Deaf, now an independent organization.

To send a copy of the resolution stating the members’ support of the article, “Is Mainstreaming the Hearing Impaired Really Justified?” in the April 1975 issue of the Utah Eagle, written by Stephen Baldwin, to Robert Tegeder superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf and to Dr. Walter Talbot, superintendent of the Utah Board of Education.

To send a letter of appreciation to Mrs. Ivy Low, one of the original founders of the Utah Association for the Deaf when it was established in 1909.

To ask for information from Saul Moss of Milwaukee, Wisconsin about the use of rapid message apparatus which would apply in our state, and that the board of directors study the feasibility of a relay system.

To thank Fay Young and his committee for the hard work in planning the 1975 convention (p. 4).

The convention was a significant moment in history, as Utah Governor Calvin L. Rampton attended the banquet and acknowledged the importance of the deaf community. He expressed his support for a deaf community center. Despite having limited interaction with the Utah Deaf community, his presence at the banquet demonstrated his concern for their welfare, and it was a pleasure to have Governor Rampton in attendance (UAD Bulletin, June 1975).

Utah Governor Calvin L. Rampton and his wife. UAD Bulletin, June 1975

The convention was filled with delight when the previous superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf, Boyd Nelson, and his wife made a surprise appearance. Their unexpected presence brought back fond memories for many Deaf individuals, creating a sense of connection and community (UAD Bulletin, October 1975).

The UAD members enjoyed a captioned film, "Cheyenne Social Club," swimming in the Ramada pool, golfing, and visiting Timpanogos Cave in American Fork, Utah.

Governor Calvin L. Rampton speaking to the large UAD Convention banquet crowd with Doris Wastlund interpreting his remarks. UAD Bulletin, October 1975

The Utah Association of the Deaf
Sponsors Booth at Utah State Fair

In September 1975, the UAD sponsored another display at the Utah State Fair. The booth featured a television presenting sign language lessons in color, as well as two TTYs. The TV ran all day and night.

Several Deaf individuals and interpreters occupied the booth over ten days, drawing considerable attention. The booth provided visitors with free ABC manual alphabet cards. They also educated attendees about deaf-related topics, such as sign language, deaf social activities, and other aspects of deaf issues.

Out of 300 organizations, enterprises, and exhibitors, the UAD stood out with its public education message and earned a prestigious honorable mention blue ribbon. This recognition was a testament to the UAD's commitment to raising awareness about deaf issues and a source of pride for the entire community (UAD Bulletin, October 1975, p. 6).

W. David Mortensen's exhibitor season pass to the Utah State Fair on September 4-14, 1975

The Utah Association for the Deaf Gets a New Logo

On June 8, 1975, the Utah Association for the Deaf Board received a proposed logo design. The board unanimously passed the design and approved it as the official logo and seal (UAD Bulletin, June 1975, p. 3). Don Mortensen, Dave's brother, designed the logo.

The logo features wrap-around arrows that rotate, representing the ongoing continuation of UAD. The color of the 1950s Utah School for the Deaf and Blind appeared to have inspired the choice of blue for their logo. One arrow is a lighter shade of blue for better visibility. The beehive symbolizes the organization's and its members' hard work (2005 UAD General Conference Minutes).

The logo, like the Utah State seal, features a beehive with bees in the center.

Utah's Motto

"Industry" officially became the State Motto on March 4, 1959. "Industry is associated with the symbol of the beehive. The early pioneers had few material resources at their disposal and therefore had to rely on their own "industry" to survive. The word "industry" appears on both the State Seal and the State Flag.

Utah's Emblem

The beehive became the official state emblem on March 4, 1959. Utahans relate the beehive symbol to industry and the pioneer virtues of thrift and perseverance.

The 1975 logo of the Utah Association for the Deaf designed by Don Mortensen

Twenty-Seventh Biennial Convention
June 16-18, 1977
Salt Lake Hilton, Salt Lake City

Paul Harris Chamberlain chaired the 27th Biennial Convention, which took place at the Salt Lake Hilton in Salt Lake City, Utah, from June 16–18, 1977 (UAD Bulletin, June 1977).

The performance on Thursday night began at 6:00 p.m., followed by a captioned screening of "Auntie Mame" (UAD Bulletin, June 1977).

Friday evening consisted of a business session. Saturday afternoon activities included swimming at the Hilton Hotel, trips to Antelope Island and Snowbird, and a golf game (UAD Bulletin, June 1977).

The three-day convention concluded with a banquet, a magic show, and dancing to a live band. Dr. Jay J. Campbell served as the evening's master of ceremonies (UAD Bulletin, June 1977).

Twenty-Eighth Biennial Convention
June 21-23, 1979
Majestic Oaks Mobile Homes Park, Murray

Norman Williams and Jerry Westberg were chairmen of the 28th biennial convention at Majestic Oaks Mobile Homes Park in Murray from June 21 to 23. The convention was a significant event in the Utah Deaf community and included various sessions and workshops on topics such as deaf advocacy, education, and community building. They renamed the newsletter from "The Silent Spotlight" to "UAD Bulletin" during the convention. Board and trustee elections took place on Friday night, and vacancies were filled at the picnic the following morning. Dr. Jay J. Campbell brightened their day by introducing his boss, Dr. Walter Talbot, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, to discuss the efforts to establish the Utah Community Center for the Deaf through legislative funding (UAD Bulletin, July 1979).

Let's acknowledge the outstanding accomplishments of Dr. Robert G. Sanderson and W. David Mortensen, who are the first Deaf individuals to receive the esteemed Golden Hand Award (UAD Bulletin, July 1979). Their unwavering commitment to the Utah Deaf community, expressed through the Utah Association for the Deaf, is truly inspiring and reflects the strength and resilience of the Utah Deaf community.

Dr. Walter Talbot

Utah Association for the Deaf
Provides Services and Activities

The Utah Association for the Deaf was a United Way agency in the Salt Lake Valley, Utah that provided various services and activities to the Deaf community in Utah. For example, the UAD supplied oral and sign language interpreters for Deaf individuals in court hearings, hospitals, and instances where their civil rights were at stake. Additionally, the UAD offered the loan of TTYs, an important communication tool, to its members for use in hospitals and emergencies (UAD Bulletin, July 1979). These services have played a significant role in ensuring equal access and opportunities for Utah Deaf community.

The Utah Association for the Deaf also played a significant role in organizing educational and social activities for the Utah Deaf community. These events included UAD Friendship Day at Lagoon, seminars on the law and the deaf, the Miss Deaf Utah Pageant, and the Utah Deaf Women's Conference (UAD Bulletin, July 1979). These events provided opportunities for learning, networking, and celebration. They were not just events but platforms for their community to come together, share experiences, and foster a sense of unity.

Utah Deaf Women Conference. L-R: Darlene Stewart Cochran, Ilene Coles Kinner, Lois Jones, & Celia May Baldwin, 1979

Twenty-Ninth Biennial Convention
June 12-13, 1981
Salt Lake Airport Hilton, Salt Lake City

The twenty-ninth biennial convention of the Utah Association for the Deaf took place on June 12-13, 1981, at the Salt Lake Airport Hilton's Wright Room. The event was a celebration of the strength and unity of the Utah Deaf community, showcasing their shared values and achievements. During the Friday Appreciation Night, many association members received certificates of appreciation, acknowledging their important role in the community (UAD Bulletin, July 1981).

The program of the 29th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association for the Deaf, June 12-13, 1981

Saturday was full of business. Among the important resolutions:

Empower the Utah Association for the Deaf to print postcards with a message to the Federal Communications Commission to ask that they require CBS to close caption their programs,
Distribute the postcards for signatures and mail to FCC; that a committee be formed to look into and document close captioning problems, contact local TV stations to establish a liaison problems, and
Add a clause to the UAD interpreter policy to prevent interference with a deaf person’s full right to interpreting, and to prevent the management or counseling of a deaf person’s business by an interpreter (UAD Bulletin, July 1981, p. 1-3).

The 1981 convention committee, led by Alden Broomhead and Stanley O'Neal, played a crucial role in the success of the event. They are grateful to the Airport Hilton Hotel and local TV stations 2, 4, 7, and 11 for their commitment to accessibility by providing closed captions. Dave Mortensen and Robert Sanderson's dedication to representing the Utah Association for the Deaf at various civic and professional meetings was commendable. Sears' initiative in making TeleCaption decoders available for purchase and the Utah State Fair booth volunteers' selfless service was also acknowledged (UAD Bulletin, July 1981).

The banquet, which took place in the Lindberg room, was a delightful and engaging event. After a delicious meal, Dr. LeRay McAllister, the majority leader of the Utah House of Representatives, delivered a compelling speech advocating for the deaf community center. The lively question and answer session that followed, with many questions directed at Dr. McAllister, was a clear indication of the genuine interest and active participation of members of the Utah Deaf community (UAD Bulletin, July 1981).

Thirtieth Biennial Convention
October 7-8, 1983
Utah Community Center for the Deaf, Bountiful

Dennis Platt and his then-wife, Valerie Kinney Platt, played pivotal roles in the 30th Biennial Convention, a significant event in the history of the Utah Community Center for the Deaf and the Bookstore. This convention was hosted at the Utah Community Center for the Deaf in Bountiful, Utah, and it was a special occasion for all. Unfortunately, flooding in and around the center forced the convention's cancellation twice in 1983. Ongoing renovations further postponed the convention, underscoring the challenges faced by the community during this period.

First convention date: June 10-11, 1983; postponed
Second convention date: July 30-31, 1983; postponed
Third convention date: October 7-8, 1983

Dennis Platt. Photo by Robert L. Bonnell

The Utah Association for the Deaf passed the following resolution at their convention:

WHEREAS
many deaf people had donated time and skills to help improve the Utah Community Center for the Deaf, many deaf people and hearing people have donated useful items to the Center for the Deaf, organizations and individuals have donated money to help defray expenses of improving the Center for the Deaf,

BE IT RESOLVED that the UAD go on record as giving its thanks and appreciation to all who have so generously donated time, useful items and money.

(signed) Robert G. Sanderson, Secretary (Sanderson, UAD Bulletin, January 1984, p. 3)

UAD Membership Increased

The program of the 30th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association for the Deaf, October 7-8, 1983

The UAD convention saw a significant increase in attendance, reflecting the growing interest and engagement within the Utah Deaf community. Dave Mortensen, UAD President, expressed his satisfaction with the turnout: "It was gratifying to see so many people in attendance and joining the UAD. Now we have 183. That's a huge increase from the past few years" (Mortensen, UAD Bulletin, November 1983, p. 1-2). This rise in participation was a positive sign for the future of the Utah Deaf community and its events.

A ticket to the 30th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association for the Deaf, June 10–11, 1983, which was postponed to October 7-8, 1983

The Launch of the Utah Association
for the Deaf Bookstore

Initiated by the National Association of the Deaf and developed by Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, the Bookstore opened at the Utah Community Center for the Deaf in Bountiful, Utah, in 1983. While editing the UAD Bulletin, Valerie G. Kinney played a crucial role in managing both the UAD and the Bookstore. Peter Green also supervised other managers. Grace Watterson worked as a bookshop manager at the new Utah Community Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Taylorsville in 1992, and the bookstore continued to evolve. Peter Green took over the position after Grace left to work at the Deaf Center until his death in 2003. Valerie Kinney then took over the bookstore and recruited volunteers. After Valerie retired, Adele Sigoda managed the bookstore until 2018. Dan V. Mathis, assistant director of the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, closed it, including the Bookstore in St. George run by Faith Bassett, due to low consumer visitation and more accessible online ordering.

The Bookstore stands as a testament to the adaptability of the Utah Deaf community. Over the years, the store has seen changes in its offerings. It transitioned from selling portable TTYs, which once boosted its revenue, to the rise of videophones, which led to a decline in TTY sales. ASL sign language books and doorbell/phone signalers emerged as top sellers, reflecting the diverse needs and interests of the community.

Valarie Kinney Platt, the UAD Bulletin editor, wrote the history of the Utah Association for the Deaf in 1983

Thirty-First Biennial Convention
June 14-15, 1985
Utah Community Center for the Deaf, Bountiful

Charles Roy Cochran, known as Roy, a dedicated member of the Utah Association for the Deaf, chaired the 31st Biennial Convention on June 14–15, 1985, at the Utah Community Center for the Deaf in Bountiful, Utah. He was elected president of the Utah Association for the Deaf. In 1963, he was the youngest of 11 directors, having just married at the age of 21. This time, he took on his new role as UAD president (Cochran, UAD Bulletin, August 1985). During his tenure, Roy Cochran spearheaded several initiatives that significantly improved the organization's outreach and services to the Utah Deaf community.

Charles Roy Cochran

The convention chairman paid tribute to Dave Mortensen, recognizing his remarkable 14-year tenure as president of the Utah Association for the Deaf, a record that remains unsurpassed. Roy Cochran expressed his admiration for Dave's accomplishments and proposed his inclusion in the Guinness Book of Records or Who's Who in NAD/UAD. Roy commended Dave for his exceptional leadership that transformed UAD from a small home-run group to a sophisticated corporation overseeing multiple programs (Cochran, UAD Bulletin, August 1985, p. 2).

At the convention, Kirk Walker, resolutions chairperson, read resolutions from the October 1985 UAD Bulletin. Here is a list of passed resolutions:

Resolution 1: To show appreciation to Robert Sanderson for his service to deaf people for many years before his retirement.

Resolution 2: To show appreciation to Valerie (Platt) Kinney for her time as UAD business manager.

Resolution 3: To show appreciation to KTVX Channel 4 of Salt Lake City for closed captioning their news programs.

Resolution 4: To show appreciation to the UAD Achievement Award committee: Barbara Bass, Celia May Baldwin, and Kayleen Pugh.

Resolution 5: To show appreciation to the 1983-1985- UAD board of directors: David Mortensen, Dennis Platt, Robert DeSpain, Jerry Taylor, Roy Cochran, Alden Broomhead, George Laramie, Stanley O’Neal, Lloyd Perkins, Glen Ross & Robert Sanderson.

Resolution 6: To show appreciation for the closed captioning of the networks: PBS, ABC, NBC, CBS, and NCI.

Resolution 7: To show appreciation for the two UAD full time interpreters, Kirk Walker and Wilma Powell.

Resolution 8: To show appreciation for the job done by the chairman, Roy Cochran, and his committee: Bruce Van Kampen, Nellie Sausedo, Lynn Losee for the 1985 UAD biennial convention.

Resolution 9: To show appreciation to Beth Ann Campbell and the Utah Community Center for the Deaf staff for continuing the work at the deaf center (p. 2 – 4).

The program of the 31st Biennial Convention of the Utah Association for the Deaf, June 14-15, 1985

Utah Community Center for the Deaf in Bountiful Utah, 1983. Pencil drawing by Robert Winkelkotter

The Thirty-Eighth National Association
of the Deaf Convention
August 1986
Utah Community Center for the Deaf, Bountiful

After two years of planning, meetings, TTY calls, and driving to check out needs, the 1986 National Association of the Deaf Convention took place in August 1986. Bob and Mary Sanderson served as co-chairs for the thirty-eighth National Association of the Deaf Convention at the Utah Community Center for the Deaf in Bountiful, Utah. Their dedicated efforts over the two years resulted in a highly successful convention, with 1218 registered attendees from 49 states and the District of Columbia. This was a testament to their collective achievement (UAD Bulletin, August 1986, p. 1–3).

Mary & Robert Sanderson. UAD Bulletin, August 1986

The convention committee, a dedicated team of six husband-wife coordinator teams, each played a critical role in the event's success. Robert and Mary Sanderson, co-chairs, were in charge of general entertainment and public relations, ensuring a vibrant and engaging atmosphere. Dennis and Valerie Kinney Platt served as assistant co-chairs, coordinating registration and other activities as needed and ensuring a smooth and efficient operation. Jerry and Nancy Taylor handled the finances and organized fundraisers like the yard sale and candy sales, contributing to the convention's financial success. Dave and Shauna Mortensen scheduled visits to Wendover, the nearest gambling joint,' Temple Square, and the Utah Community Center for the Deaf, providing diverse and enjoyable activities for the attendees. Lastly, Barbara and Fred Bass managed the Miss Deaf America Pageant's local functions, ensuring a successful and memorable pageant (UAD Bulletin, August 1986, p. 1-3).

Dennis Platt

Valerie Kinney Platt. Photo by Robert L. Bonnell

A lot happened during the week. Several NAD supporters attended George and Dora Laramie's breakfast for the Order of Georges and Georgette on Tuesday. The President's Reception that evening was well attended, with Kenneth and Priscilla Burdett serving as the event's chairpersons. The finals of the Miss Deaf America Pageant took place on Friday evening at the Capitol Theatre. The California entertainment group Excerpts performed on Wednesday night. Robert and Mary Sanderson's son, Gary, managed the Wednesday night entertainment for Nancy Taylor (UAD Bulletin, August 1986, p. 1-3).

Peter and Sally Green organized the awards luncheon, which took place at noon on Friday at the nearby Hilton hotel. On Saturday night, New Frontier Dance, directed by George and Carola Gavros, featured the local group Hands Up in a song-and-dance performance (UAD Bulletin, August 1986, p. 1-3).

Jerry Taylor

Nancy Taylor. Photo by Robert L. Bonnell

The Beehive Caucus, the daily newsletter, featured convention news and interviews. The Casper Room was active all day, with interpreters assisting deaf individuals with voice calls and using the copy machine. The convention wasn't just an event; it felt like a family reunion. Gallaudetians held three sorority and fraternity luncheons on Wednesday, and held mini-reunions throughout the week, fostering a strong sense of community (UAD Bulletin, August 1986, p. 1-3).

Shanna & Dave Mortensen

Appreciation Dinner Climaxes
NAD Committee Work

The UAD sponsored an appreciation meal to thank the NAD convention staff for their dedication and enthusiasm. For some, this event marked the culmination of two years of meetings, design, planning, and execution for the convention. Charles Roy Cochran, president of the Utah Association for the Deaf, organized and attended the event (UAD Bulletin, August 1986, p. 1-3).

The UAD board of directors expressed its deep appreciation for Robert and Mary Sanderson's leadership and the invaluable contributions of over 100 committee workers. They emphasized that the convention's success was a collective effort (UAD Bulletin, August 1986, p. 1-3).

Dr. Sanderson stated, "Personal remarks and letters from people all over the United States suggested the convention was a success." He also received Associated Press clippings from as far as Florida, indicating extensive coverage of the convention and pageant. The convention not only brought the Deaf community together but also raised awareness about deaf culture and rights, making a significant impact on broader society (UAD Bulletin, August 1986, p. 1-3).

Pete Green. Photo by Robert L. Bonnell

Sally Green. Photo by Robert L. Bonnell

Awards Luncheon Honors Supporters

At a gathering of over 900 people, the National Association of the Deaf honored individuals and organizations who have supported or volunteered for the organization. The awards, such as the 'Knights of the Flying Fingers' and the 'Deaf Culture Advocate,' were given to recognize outstanding contributions to the deaf community and the NAD (UAD Bulletin, August 1986, p. 1-3).

Mary Sanderson from Utah was honored with the prestigious "Knights of the Flying Fingers" award for her relentless efforts in making the 1986 National Association of the Deaf convention a reality. The award, named after the sign language used by the Deaf community, serves as a symbol of honor and recognition for individuals who have made substantial contributions to the advancement of deaf culture and rights (UAD Bulletin, August 1986, p. 1-3).

Shutterbugs Capture NAD Spirit

The team of three photographers, Robert Welsh, Robert Bonnell, and Louise Saathoff, captured a total of 34 rolls of film. They diligently documented every moment leading up to, during, and after the convention, creating a comprehensive visual record of the event. Their primary responsibility was to fulfill requests for around 2,000 photos. Sorting through the photos to determine the quantity of each shot was quite challenging. They forwarded the original photos and negatives to the NAD Office for preservation and future use (UAD Bulletin, August 1986, p. 1-3).

Priscilla and Kenneth Burdett. Photo by Robert L. Bonnell

Thirty-Second Biennial Convention
June 12-13, 1987
Excelsior Hotel, Provo

The Utah Association for the Deaf held its thirty-second biennial convention in Provo for the first time under the leadership of co-chairs Ron Nelson and Kristi Mortensen. They selected the Excelsior Hotel to promote inclusivity, given the historical exclusion of Provo's Deaf community from the UAD and their political and social isolation from the larger Deaf community in Utah. The convention was a platform to invite them to learn more about UAD. Unfortunately, the turnout was not as expected, with only three Provo residents attending the convention (Nelson, UAD Bulletin, June 1989).

Ron Nelson & Kristi Mortensen

Jim Harper, according to Ron Nelson, was the most active member of Provo. His involvement was not just a contribution, but a testament to his dedication. His election to the UAD Board of Directors made him Provo's most valuable asset. During his two years on the board, he consistently attended practically every monthly board meeting in Bountiful, Utah. He informed them of Provo's efforts to obtain the required services and asked for their expertise. He kept Provo informed about the UAD's political efforts. He founded the Utah Valley Chapter, which joined the UAD during the convention (Nelson, UAD Bulletin, June 1989).

Jim Harper

The Miss Deaf Utah Pageant took place at Hillcrest High School on Friday, followed by a successful business meeting at the Excelsior Hotel the next day. Participants gathered in the McKay Room for a banquet and entertainment and warmly welcomed the new Miss Deaf Utah (UAD Bulletin, July 1987).

After the convention, more than ninety individuals participated in the banquet. Senator Darrel Renstrom, who sponsored Senate Bill 101 (Hearing Impaired Telecommunication Access Act) and the Utah Relay Services Bill for TDD distribution and message relay center, was a guest speaker at the event. He discussed the details of the bills. Numerous Deaf individuals expressed their gratitude by signing the "Joy of Signing" book to acknowledge his efforts on their behalf (UAD Bulletin, July 1987).

Celia May Laramie Baldwin, a dedicated member and supporter of the Utah Association for the Deaf, was honored with the Golden Hand Award. Despite being a single parent of two children, she went above and beyond in her involvement with the UAD and the local division of the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf and the St Mary Magdalene Club for the Deaf. Even though she had only moved to Fremont, California, a year before, her exceptional service was duly acknowledged with the Golden Hand Award for 1987 (UAD Bulletin, July 1987).

Outgoing president Charles Roy Cochran honored Tim Funk from the Committee on Consumer Services with the prestigious President's Award. The Utah Coalition for Deaf Access acknowledged and celebrated his significant contribution in helping to pass Senate Bill 101 during the 1987 legislative session (UAD Bulletin, July 1987).

Celia May Laramie Baldwin. Photo by Robert L. Bonnell

The following resolutions were developed at the convention:

Whereas deaf people and friends of the deaf turned out enmasse at the rally on January 30 at the Utah Capitol, many taking the day off work, and
Whereas interpreters volunteered their time to interpret at the rally, and at the Senate and House legislative sessions,
Whereas the rally was the formal start of Senate Bill 101 to provide TDD distribution and message relay center, which benefits both the deaf and the hearing alike,
Be it resolved that the Utah Association for the Deaf go on record as commending all those who gave their time that day to see the SB 101 off to a good start, which eventually culminated in a successful passage in the Senate and the House,
Be it further resolved that the UAD secretary be directed to place a copy of the resolution in a future issue of the UAD Bulletin (UAD Bulletin, September 1987, p. 2).

The program of the 32nd Biennial Convention of the Utah Association for the Deaf, June 13, 1987

Utah Relay Service

In 1987, the "Hearing Impaired Telecommunication Access Act" was passed to help Deaf individuals access regular phone services. On October 13, 1987, President W. David Mortensen signed a contract with the Public Service Commission to run the Utah Relay Service.

Utah Deaf Supporters with Utah Governor Norman H. Bangerter, 1987

The Utah Relay Service started operating on January 4, 1988. The UAD managed the Utah Relay Service under a 10-year contract with the Public Service Commission (Sanderson, UAD Bulletin, April 1999). Based on her work at the Utah Community Center for the Deaf, the UAD appointed Madelaine Perkins as the executive director of the Utah Relay System (Mortensen, UAD Bulletin, November 1987).

The UAD contract ended in 1999. In 2000, Sprint won a bid from the Public Service Commission for the Utah Relay Service. When Sorenson Communication, Inc. entered the picture in 2003, the TTY became obsolete over time.

Madelaine Perkins

Thirty-Third Biennial Convention
June 17-19, 1989
University Park Hotel, Salt Lake City

John Peebler, a respected figure in our community, chaired the highly significant thirty-third biennial convention in Salt Lake City, Utah. The convention served as a crucial platform for discussions. It included reports on the Utah Interpreter Service and Utah Relay Services, as well as insightful questions from the Utah Deaf community about these services and other pressing issues (Mortensen, UAD Bulletin, June 1989).

Let's take a moment to recognize a significant achievement. The Utah Association for the Deaf recently celebrated its 80th anniversary, showcasing our lasting dedication and advancements (Mortensen, UAD Bulletin, June 1989).

The 33rd Biennial Convention of the Utah Association for the Deaf in 1989 was a significant event. One of the highlights was screening a 16 mm film titled "A History of the Utah School for the Deaf: 1940-1965". This historical treasure, created by Kenneth C. Burdett, a 1929 graduate and teacher at the Utah School for the Deaf, portrayed the lives of Deaf students on the school's campus over several decades. It captured class trips, graduations, and other important campus events, serving as a poignant reminder of their shared history (Mortensen, UAD Bulletin, June 1989).

Kenneth C. Burdett

In 1990, W. David Mortensen, also known as Dave, then President of the Utah Association for the Deaf and a 1949 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf, shared his article in the UAD Bulletin of June 1990. He shared his fond memories and benefits of attending a school that inclusively served the needs of Deaf students. He believed that sending a Deaf child to such a school never harmed them and provided them with education, socialization, leadership training, discipline, drama, dance, public speaking, sports, entertainment, and more. Those were very, very happy times, he said. Dave acknowledged that times have changed and questioned if they have changed for the better or worse. He disagreed that mainstreaming was the answer despite it being considered a trend in modern times. He suggested that people speak to those who have spent time away from home at a deaf school and ask if they felt it was a mistake. Dave asked, "Have times changed for the better or worse?" and "Is mainstreaming the answer?" He answered that he believed it was not the solution. He emphasized the crucial importance of consulting with Deaf residential school alums before making the school placement decision (Mortensen, UAD Bulletin, June 1990, p. 1). The sentiments expressed by the attendees were diverse, reflecting a range of perspectives on the past, present, and future of deaf education.

Utah Association for the Deaf President W. David Mortensen's President's Message. UAD Bulletin, June 1990, p. 1

Thirty-Fourth Biennial Convention
June 13-15, 1991
Salt Lake Airport Hilton, Salt Lake City

Lynn Losee chaired the thirty-fourth biannual convention at the Salt Lake Airport Hilton Hotel, a renowned venue known for its excellent service and accessibility. Although there were only one hundred sixty-eight attendees, the UAD convention was a success. The attendees enjoyed three events: a picnic on Thursday, June 13, at Bountiful Park; a dinner and the Miss Deaf Utah pageant on Friday, June 14; and an awards banquet on Saturday, June 15. The food at each event was exceptional, showcasing the hotel's commitment to quality. The business meeting proceeded smoothly, with the review of eight by-law amendments leading to their approval, modification, or rejection. The sessions were well-received by the attendees, with engaging and informative content and delivery. The overall positive mood reflected the UAD's spirit and resilience (UAD Bulletin, July 1991).

Lynn Losee, chair of the UAD 1991 Convention

During the convention, attendees found all three workshops outstanding and worthwhile. The "HIV/AIDS" workshop, led by Christine Buchholz, provided crucial information about the disease, its impact on the Deaf community, and preventive measures. Jacqueline Roth's "Deaf Empowerment" workshop focused on strategies for self-advocacy and empowerment, inspiring many attendees. Minnie Mae Wilding Diaz's "ASL and Deaf Culture" workshop celebrated our unique language and culture, fostering a sense of pride and unity among the participants at the UAD (UAD Bulletin, July 1991).

John (Jack) White and Bob Welsh were elected as new UAD trustees immediately following the board members' election, as reported in the UAD Bulletin from July 1991 (UAD Bulletin, July 1991).

The plan was for people to meet again in two years, possibly at the new Utah Community Center of the Deaf in Taylorsville, Utah, instead of further locations (UAD Bulletin, July 1991).

The program of the 34th Biennial Convention of the Utah Association for the Deaf, June 13-15, 1991

Guests praised the relaxed atmosphere and excellent surroundings at the Airport Hilton Hotel, considering it a big hit (UAD Bulletin, July 1991).

The six young ladies who competed in the Miss Deaf Utah pageant were a delightful group. The pageant celebrated our community's beauty, talent, and resilience and was a highlight of the convention. Although only one of the girls was crowned state queen, each excelled in her own way, showcasing our community's diversity and strength (UAD Bulletin, July 1991).

The participants' diverse educational backgrounds captivated the audience. Heather Horman from Olympus, Melanie Mears from Brighton, Pamela Mower from Jordan, Christie Norton from Skyline, Kristi Waldvogel from Mountain View, and Shannon Warr from Bountiful are all graduates of public high schools in Salt Lake and Utah counties (UAD Bulletin, July 1991).

A total of four people from outside the state attended the UAD Convention in 1991. These attendees included Kathy Allen from Alaska, two Californians—Dora Laramie from Fremont and Beverly Nunn from Sun Valley—and a Nebraskan, Robert Taylor from Omaha (UAD Bulletin, July 1991).

When questioned about his decision to decline the UAD Board nomination, Dr. Robert G. Sanderson explained that he felt it was time to retire after thirty-six years of service. The UAD, understanding and respecting his decision, greatly appreciated his many years of service and dedication (UAD Bulletin, July 1991). The UAD's acceptance of his reasoning was a clear demonstration of its culture of respect and support. Despite his retirement, Bob's commitment to the UAD remained strong, and he later rejoined the board in 2003, serving alongside Dr. Lawrence H. Forestal, also a former NAD President. His dedication to the Utah Association of the Deaf, including his role as president emeritus, remained steadfast for forty-five years, a testament to his deep commitment to the cause until his passing in 2012.

The convention ended with an awards luncheon filled with surprises and excitement for the attendees. The room was brimming with applause and cheers as each award recipient was announced, celebrating their contributions to our community. The atmosphere was joyful and full of camaraderie, a true testament to the spirit of the UAD (UAD Bulletin, July 1991).

USDB Superintendent David West was a guest speaker at the convention, discussing trends in deaf education. His insights and expertise offered valuable perspectives, inspiring many and fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among the attendees (UAD Bulletin, July 1991).

The 1991 Utah Association for the Deaf Convention

The President’s Awards

Four outstanding individuals received the prestigious President's Award for their significant contributions to the Utah Deaf community. Madelaine Perkins was honored for her invaluable work with the Utah Relay Service; John (Jack) F. White was celebrated for his dedication to Utah sports; Rodney W. Walker was commended for his extensive service to various organizations; and Gene D. Stewart was lauded for his unwavering commitment to the Utah Deaf community through vocational rehabilitation. Their contributions have made a lasting impact on their Utah Deaf community, inspiring us all (UAD Bulletin, July 1991).

Dr. Robert Sanderson surprised W. David Mortensen by presenting him with a gavel emblazoned with the words "UAD Board thanks Dave Mortensen for 18 years of dedicated service" (UAD Bulletin, July 1991).

John (Jack) F. White

The Golden Hand Award

Peter Green was honored with the Golden Hand Award for his exceptional contributions to the Utah Deaf community. As the treasurer for the UAD, he maintained meticulous records for various accounts, including the UAD general fund, United Way, Miss Deaf Utah, and others. Moreover, he established a billing statement agency for up to 32 people, a first for freelance interpreters. Peter volunteered countless hours to compile financial records, doubling the general fund under his diligent oversight. He also diligently managed the UAD Bookstore merchandise, including TV decoders, TDDs, books, and other items. Furthermore, he served as the chairman for two reunions of the Utah School for the Deaf and was an active participant in meetings for the Salt Lake Frats, Utah Athletic Club for the Deaf, and Utah Association for the Deaf. Peter was highly esteemed as a dedicated and respected member of the Deaf community in Utah (UAD Bulletin, July 1991).

Pete Green. Photo by Robert L. Bonnell

Thirty-Fifth Biennial Convention
June 17-19, 1993
Utah Community Center for the Deaf, Taylorsville

Lynn Losee once again led the 35th biennial convention, a momentous occasion, at the Utah Community Center for the Deaf, a place that has finally become their home in Taylorsville, Utah. The convention's sessions delved into four crucial areas: grants, the National Safety Council on Defensive Driving, relay service, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (Mortensen, L.M., UAD Bulletin, July 1993).

The Utah Association for the Deaf, with its impeccable organizational skills, successfully hosted three events. These included a delightful potluck luncheon on Thursday at UCCD, a memorable dinner and the Miss Deaf Utah pageant on Friday, and a grand awards banquet on Saturday (UAD Bulletin, July 1993).

Ben Soukup, a prominent figure in the Deaf community, serving as the president of the National Association of the Deaf and the director of the South Dakota Association of the Deaf and Communication Services for the Deaf in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, delivered a compelling keynote speech at the luncheon held at the Salt Lake Hilton Hotel in downtown Salt Lake (UAD Bulletin, July 1993).

Ben Soukup. Deaf Person of the Month, October 2007

Upon the resumption of board meetings, the UAD board discussed several goals.

Work with Legislation to raise the surcharge on phone lines from 10 cents per line to 25–35 cents to enhance service quality and elevate Utah Relay Services' standards.
Provide workshops with the aim of "empowering the young deaf population and producing more leaders for the future."
Provide more workshops or seminars in the community to better understand social issues and the needs of the deaf.
Improve deaf education issues;
Support the Bi-Bi Deaf Mentor Project.
Advocate captioning on local news broadcasts;
Support is needed to get ASL accepted as a foreign language.

Looking ahead, the Utah Association for the Deaf was determined to achieve all the goals within two years, even though they may seem more complex and straightforward. This is a testament to their unwavering commitment and belief in a brighter future (UAD Bulletin, August 1993, p. 1).

The 1993 Utah Association for the Deaf Convention

The Golden Hand Award

Rodney W. Walker was honored with the Golden Hand Award in 1993 for his exceptional community service (UAD Bulletin, July 1993).

Rodney W. Walker

The Presidential Awards

The Presidential Awards were presented to individuals who had made significant contributions to various organizations. The Utah Association for the Deaf extended their heartfelt gratitude to the following individuals for their invaluable service:

Barbara Bass
Kenneth Kinner
Jane Bell
Lynn Losee
Dave Mortensen
Mary Sanderson
Robert Sanderson
Peter Green
Shirley Platt
Ann Thatcher
Patricia Walker
Lloyd Perkins (UAD Bulletin, July 1993, p. 3).

Robert & Mary Sanderson

Thirty-Sixth Biennial Convention
June 15-17, 1995
Utah School for the Deaf, Ogden

The Utah Association for the Deaf, under the leadership of UAD president Dave Mortensen, celebrated a significant achievement with its 36th biennial conference at the new campus of the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind. Dave, a dedicated advocate for the Utah Deaf community, reminisced about the early days of the association when all UAD conventions took place at the school in Ogden, Utah. Although they missed the old campus, the new one was equally impressive. Dave's leadership and unwavering commitment were crucial to the success of the convention (Mortensen, UAD Bulletin, June 1995).

Dave Mortensen, UAD President

The UAD convention began on Thursday, June 15, with a reception on the patio of the new USDB Administration Building. On Friday afternoon, June 16, two impactful workshops took place. Annette Tull, an interpreter for the Granite School District, shared valuable insights on how Deaf people can effectively use interpreters. Madelaine Perkins, the director of the Utah Relay Service, provided a comprehensive understanding of the relay service, explaining its capabilities and limitations for relay users. These workshops left the audience feeling informed and empowered, equipped with practical knowledge to apply in their daily lives (Kinney, UAD Bulletin, June 1995).

The Miss Deaf Utah Pageant took place in the auditorium that evening, with Kristi Mortensen serving as the state director and Katrina Pickett Lee as the pageant director (Kinney, UAD Bulletin, August 1995).

Dennis Platt hosted the event that evening. Margo Cienek, a former Miss Deaf America, discussed the past, present, and future of deaf culture, which was the highlight of the banquet program (Kinney, UAD Bulletin, June 1995).

Annette Tull. Photo by Robert L. Bonnell

The Utah Association for the Deaf
Chooses to be Different

Many members of different associations and clubs insisted on specific language when drafting their constitutions and by-laws to ensure that Deaf people would be in charge of their organizations. A significant debate revolved around the words 'Of' and 'For.' A large percentage of Deaf organizations used the word 'of' in their titles because they believed it conveyed a real sense of ownership. They saw the word 'for' implying that the organization could be run by either the deaf or the hearing, giving them less control. The debate, which showcased the audience's engagement and the value placed on their opinions, continued for quite some time (UAD Bulletin, November 1995, p. 1).

The same debate emerged at the convention regarding the use of 'for' in the Utah Association for the Deaf. Many messages received by the UAD favored the use of 'of.' After weighing the pros and cons, the members decided to keep the term 'for.' Consequently, the UAD became known as the Utah Association for the Deaf. "It won't hurt UAD to be different," added one member, emphasizing the importance of the association's unique identity (UAD Bulletin, November 1995, p. 1).

Dr. Lee Robinson,
USDB Superintendent Gives a Speech

During the business session, Dr. Lee Robinson, superintendent of the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, presented a short address. He focused on the school's mission and vision, providing the Utah Association for the Deaf with a clear picture of the institution's commitment to offering quality education and services to Deaf and blind students. Using an overhead projector, he displayed the number of Deaf and blind students in the state, highlighting the school's role in meeting their educational needs. As of December 1994, there were 953 students enrolled, which attested to the school's dedication (UAD Bulletin, September 1995, pp. 4-5).

The school recently built new, beautiful classrooms for the deaf and blind on campus. Dr. Robinson believed that this would attract more parents to send their kids to the program. The school was also looking to start a sports program by bringing together athletes from both the campus and extension programs for games. This program, scheduled to begin in the upcoming academic year, aimed to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship among the students. The school was considering a variety of sports, including basketball, volleyball, and track and field. In January 1995, Dr. Robinson attended the Western Classic basketball tournament in Fremont, California, and was impressed by the large number of Deaf high school students from across the West. This further fueled his enthusiasm for the new sports program (UAD Bulletin, September 1995).

Dr. Robinson encouraged deaf organizations to hold meetings at the USDB and was pleased that the Utah Association for the Deaf did so. He looked forward to meeting with the UAD to discuss ways to improve Deaf Education. He believed communication between the USDB and the Deaf community was crucial (UAD Bulletin, September 1995).

Dr. Lee Robinson

Thirty-Seventh Biennial Convention
June 13-14, 1997
Salt Lake Airport Hilton, Salt Lake City

The 37th biennial convention, a significant event for the Utah Association for the Deaf, took place in Salt Lake City on June 13–14, 1997, at the Salt Lake Airport Hilton. After the Friday workshops, the convention ended early in the evening, allowing everyone to watch Game 6 of the NBA Finals between the Utah Jazz and the Chicago Bulls from their homes (Mortensen, K., UAD Bulletin, July 1997).

The convention reconvened on Saturday, June 14. The convention business meeting discussed the significant motions from the July 1997 issue of the UAD Bulletin, which resulted from their valuable input.

Heartfelt thanks to Dave Mortensen and Shanna Mortensen for their 20-plus years of devotion to UAD, especially with Dave as president;
The suspension of the new Constitution and Bylaws proposals was a strategic move. It allows the UAD lawyer ample time to review the document and ensure it aligns with state laws. Once the lawyer has given his opinion, a general meeting will be held in late September or early October.
The establishment of a committee to study the feasibility and set a policy for a lending library of deaf-related materials;
The establishment of a one-day Bi-Bi conference to be held within a year. Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz was chosen as chair of the Bi Bi conference;
The decision was made to purchase a laptop computer, a crucial tool that the secretary will use to record all meeting minutes. Additionally, two modems will be installed, one on the UAD bookstore computer and one on the UAD Bulletin computer. These modems will enable the use of e-mail capabilities, a significant step towards improving communication within the organization.

Shanna & Dave Mortensen

The business meeting also passed resolutions. They included the following:

Thanks to David Samuelsen for his time and effort in following and reporting on legislative matters pertaining to the Deaf community.
Thanks to KJZZ for beginning the closed captioning effort on Jazz games and encouraging them to caption all games;
Thanks to KUTV Channel 2, KTVX Channel 4, and KSTU (Fox) Channel 13 for being sensitive to their deaf audiences by introducing real-time captioning and asking that they also caption 1–15 reconstruction bulletin segments;
Commendation to Carol Croyle, the director of Deaf Connections, and her staff, friends, and volunteers for their exceptional work;
Applaud and express deep appreciation to Dave Mortensen for his everlasting work making UAD a successful and prosperous organization (Kinney, UAD Bulletin, July 1997, p. 4).

Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz, JMS Co-founder

Bi-Bi Conference a Big Hit. UAD Bulletin, June 1997

The Creation of the Utah Deaf Bilingual
and Bicultural Conference Led to the Establishment
of the Jean Massiue School of the Deaf

The Jean Massiue School of the Deaf was established as a result of the 1997 Utah Deaf Bilingual and Bicultural Conference. This significant event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Utah Deaf community, led by Shirley Hortie Platt, a dedicated Deaf Mentor in the Parent Infant Program (PIP) of the Utah School for the Deaf, serving families of Deaf children. Shirley played a key role in leading the conference and serving families with Deaf children. Their unity and determination were a response to the dissatisfaction with the quality of deaf education at the Utah School for the Deaf, as Deaf students' academic achievement was limited at both the Utah School for the Deaf and mainstream school placements. Their concerns were echoed by Gene Stewart, a Child of Deaf Adults and vocational rehabilitation counselor for the deaf, who addressed the Utah State Board of Education in 1977, describing the condition as being in the 'Dark Ages' (The Ogden Standard-Examiner, March 26, 1977).

As a solution, Shirley proposed the creation of the Utah Deaf Bilingual and Bicultural Conference, which was approved by the Utah Association for the Deaf. The term' bilingual and bicultural' refers to the recognition and promotion of both American Sign Language (ASL) and English, as well as Deaf culture, in the education of Deaf children. The conference, chaired by Shirley and hosted by the Utah Association for the Deaf, took place over two days on April 25–26, 1997, at the Eccles Conference Center in Ogden, Utah. Dr. Petra M. Horn-Marsh, the director of the Deaf Mentor program, supervised the conference (UAD Bulletin, June 1997; Shirley Hortie Platt, personal communication, November 7, 2008). This event marked a significant moment in the community's history.

Shirley, fueled by her unwavering determination to make a change, led the conference. She was deeply troubled by the high number of Utah Deaf children who were unable to use their natural language, the lack of progress in the Parent Infant Program, and the complete disregard for input from Deaf Mentors. Despite facing paternalistic and patronizing attitudes from the USD teachers and administrators, most of whom were hearing, Shirley remained resolute. She was appalled by their ignorance and realized that if someone wanted to make a change, they had to do it themselves, so she did (Shirley Hortie Platt, personal communication, November 7, 2008).

The event was a testament to the success of the conference in bringing together a diverse range of presenters and attendees. Approximately four hundred people, many from out of state, graced the event with their presence. The conference was enriched by the insights of distinguished presenters. Dr. Lawrence "Larry" Fleischer, Department Chair of Deaf Studies at California State University-Northridge, discussed Deaf identity; Dr. Martina J. "MJ" Bienvenu, Director of the Language and Culture Center in Gaithersburg, Maryland, shed light on Deaf culture; Dr. Marlon "Lon" Kuntze from the University of California, Berkeley, delved into the topic of language; and Dr. Joseph "Jay" Innes from Gallaudet University shared his expertise on Deaf Education. Representatives from the Indiana School for the Deaf, including Diane Hazel Jones, David Geeslin, and Rebecca Pardee, shared their school's experience establishing a bilingual-bicultural program (UAD Bulletin, June 1997).

The conference was a big success, providing an unprecedented platform for people to shift their mindsets. It also aimed to foster a fresh perspective that appreciates the value of Deaf people. This paradigm change was more than just a goal; it was a hopeful vision of a more inclusive and understanding society. The conference also significantly contributed to this vision by influencing and changing the perceptions of Deaf individuals.

Shirley Hortie Platt

During the Utah Association for the Deaf conference on June 13–14, 1997, a significant event occurred when Dennis Platt, the husband of Shirlie Hortie Platt, who was the newly elected UAD president and a USDB Institutional Council member, established the Bilingual and Bicultural Committee. Also, David Samuelsen, a UAD member, proposed to appoint Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz, a highly respected figure in the Deaf community, a professionally qualified, passionate advocate for ASL/English bilingual education, and a Deaf parent of three Deaf children, as the chair of the committee (David Samuelsen, personal communication, July 26, 2016). The Utah Association for the Deaf approved David's proposal, marking a significant shift in the landscape of deaf education. The committee focused on advocating for ASL/English bilingual education, and its work has had a positive impact on the community, providing hope for a better future in deaf education.

Utah Deaf Bi-Bi Conference. UAD Bulletin, June 1997

Minnie Mae was inspired by the 1997 Utah Deaf Bilingual and Bicultural Conference and was eager to contribute when elected chair of the Bi-Bi Committee. In her 1990 paper, "Exciting Developments in Deaf Education," she shared her enthusiasm and admiration for the Indiana School for the Deaf for adopting a bilingual-bicultural approach. It's no surprise that she would eventually become a JMS co-founder. Her passion was evident from the start, paving the way to co-founding the successful Jean Massieu School of the Deaf in 1999.

Throughout the campaign, the UAD committee strategically used the term 'Bi-Bi,' a shorthand for 'bilingual-bicultural, 'to underscore their vision of incorporating both ASL and English in the education of Deaf children. They also aimed to highlight the importance of integrating Deaf culture into the educational experience of Deaf children (Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz, personal communication, March 29, 2010).

One of the main goals of the Bi-Bi Committee was to explore the potential of introducing bilingual-bicultural education to the Utah School for the Deaf, which at that time only offered oral and total communication options (UAD Bulletin, July 1999; Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz, personal communication, April 23, 2011). The committee's first attempt to integrate the Bi-Bi program into the school was unsuccessful. The Bi-Bi Committee did not anticipate that their decision would lead to the creation of a deaf day school (Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz, personal communication, April 23, 2011). Despite facing obstacles, their unwavering persistence and dedication led to the establishment of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf on August 29, 1999. This school later merged with the Utah School for the Deaf on June 3, 2005, to provide a bilingual and bicultural option called ASL/English bilingual. The Jean Massieu School of the Deaf continues to operate, providing Deaf students with access to both ASL and English on campus, empowering them to thrive and succeed. Thanks to Minnie Mae's dedication and steadfast leadership, JMS has been in operation since 1999. JMS has been in operation since 1999. This achievement marked a significant milestone in Utah's deaf education.

Today, the Utah School for the Deaf offers four ASL/English bilingual schools: Kenneth C. Burdett School for the Deaf in Ogden, Jean Massieu School for the Deaf in Salt Lake City, Elizabeth DeLong School for the Deaf in Springville, and Southern Utah School for the Deaf in St. George. These schools are named after three prominent Deaf individuals: Kenneth C. Burdett, Jean Massieu, and Elizabeth DeLong.

UAD Retains “For” In Its Name

On February 21, 1998, the UAD survived an attempt to change its name to the Utah Association of the Deaf. The general meeting failed to achieve the required 2/3 majority to pass this question during voting. As a result, the organization decided to keep the Utah Association for the Deaf as its name (UAD Bulletin, March 1998, p. 1).

Now It’s “Conference”

During the UAD general meeting in September 1997, a decision was made to change the word "convention" to "conference" in the UAD Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws. This change was specifically for references to the UAD convention (Kinney, UAD Bulletin, October 1998, p. 1).

Thirty-Eighth Biennial Conference
June 11-12, 1999
Provo Marriott, Provo

The thirty-eight biennial conference of the Utah Association for the Deaf concluded at the Provo Marriott in Provo. On Friday, June 11, 1999, at 1:00 p.m., Dr. Jess Freeman King from Utah State University in Logan, Utah, presented "A Look Ahead: Education of the Deaf in the Next Millennium." Dr. Carol Padden from the University of California-San Diego also presented on the "Future of Deaf People" (UAD Bulletin, July 1999; UAD Bulletin, September 1999).

Dr. J. King Freeman

The conference featured several significant events. Kelby Brick, a Deaf lawyer, led a crucial discussion on "Accessibility: The Law," addressing an important topic in the Deaf community. Additionally, Deafywood came to life through the performances of a group of Deaf entertainers. The event also featured presentations by Tom Humphries of the University of California-San Diego on "The Modern Deaf Self" and Kelby Brick on "Current Legal Issues and How to Influence Public Policy" (UAD Bulletin, July 1999).