Jean Massieu School of the Deaf's 20th Anniversary Celebration

Compiled & Written by Jodi Christel Becker

Published in 2019
Updated in 2025

Author's Note

I had a wonderful time working with the committee to plan the 20th anniversary celebration of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf. It truly felt like an honor. My two amazing adult children, Joshua and Danielle, have been part of this incredible school since they were just three years old, and they’ve made some of their happiest memories there. Being part of the celebration was a privilege, and I am really thankful for the opportunity. It was heartwarming to connect with the JMS community. What an exceptional experience!

Jodi Christel Becker

Acknowledgement

On August 29, 2019, Jean Massieu School of the Deaf celebrated its 20th anniversary. Former students, teachers, and staff members, as well as members of the Utah Deaf community, came to the event to celebrate this milestone. The celebration included a dinner, awards, and a play.

During the event, recognition awards were presented to JMS co-founders Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz and Jeff Allen and JMS leader Joe Zeidner. They were acknowledged for their hard work and dedication to establishing and operating JMS.

We are grateful to Joel Coleman, USDB Superintendent; Michelle Tanner, USD Associate Superintendent; and Aimee Breinholt, JMS Principal, for recognizing JMS's value and hosting the celebration event for the Deaf community.

Finally, a special mention goes to Amanda Tolle Wolfe, a Deaf individual, for her excellent work designing the JMS Historical Timeline!