Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz,
a Co-Founder of the
Jean Massieu School of the Deaf
Written By Jodi Christel Becker
Published in 2021
Updated in 2025
Published in 2021
Updated in 2025
Author's Note
Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz
Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz, also known as MM, is a highly respected figure in the Deaf community. She is married to Julio Diaz, who is also Deaf, and they are proud parents of three grown Deaf children: Briella, Julio "Tres," and Isabelle. Born into a Deaf family, Minnie's parents, Jerry Willing and Caldonia Della Williams, had a significant influence on her appreciation for Deaf culture and literacy. Their influence instilled in her a deep understanding of the importance of literacy within the community.
Minnie Mae has dedicated her life to promoting ASL/English bilingualism, ensuring that the voices of Deaf individuals are heard and valued in all aspects of society. Throughout her career, she has shared her knowledge and skills in American Sign Language (ASL) linguistics by teaching at various postsecondary institutions. In 1999, she co-founded the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf, a milestone that had a significant impact on the Utah Deaf community. In 2004, she co-established Utah Valley University's Deaf Studies program, now known as the Deaf Studies Today! Conference. This conference has become a vital platform for sharing research, resources, and best practices in Deaf education and advocacy.
Minnie Mae's dedication has inspired countless educators and students, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for Deaf culture and language. Additionally, her translation of The Book of Mormon into ASL stands as a testament to her commitment and the impact of her work. This groundbreaking translation made this religious text accessible to the Deaf community of Latter-day Saints, highlighting the importance of cultural representation in religious literature. Her work in promoting ASL/English bilingualism and Deaf literacy has influenced countless individuals, deepening their understanding and appreciation of Deaf culture.
Minnie Mae has dedicated her life to promoting ASL/English bilingualism, ensuring that the voices of Deaf individuals are heard and valued in all aspects of society. Throughout her career, she has shared her knowledge and skills in American Sign Language (ASL) linguistics by teaching at various postsecondary institutions. In 1999, she co-founded the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf, a milestone that had a significant impact on the Utah Deaf community. In 2004, she co-established Utah Valley University's Deaf Studies program, now known as the Deaf Studies Today! Conference. This conference has become a vital platform for sharing research, resources, and best practices in Deaf education and advocacy.
Minnie Mae's dedication has inspired countless educators and students, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for Deaf culture and language. Additionally, her translation of The Book of Mormon into ASL stands as a testament to her commitment and the impact of her work. This groundbreaking translation made this religious text accessible to the Deaf community of Latter-day Saints, highlighting the importance of cultural representation in religious literature. Her work in promoting ASL/English bilingualism and Deaf literacy has influenced countless individuals, deepening their understanding and appreciation of Deaf culture.
Bronwyn O'Hara
During her graduate studies at Brigham Young University, Minnie Mae demonstrated relentless commitment by authoring two influential papers titled "Why the Deaf Can't Read: Answers and Solutions" and "Exciting Developments in Deaf Education." These papers, a testament to her dedication, have significantly shaped the discussions surrounding Deaf education. They were presented to Bronwyn O'Hara, a parent of three Deaf children and an advocate for Deaf education, in recognition of her commitment to preserving this vital research.
Thanks to Bronwyn's efforts, Minnie Mae's impactful papers, which are an essential part of our historical research, were eventually made available to me for further review and preservation. Without her advocacy, I might not have had the opportunity to access them.
Bronwyn has not only highlighted the importance of these works but has also fostered ongoing discussions and collaboration among teachers, parents, and advocates. This emphasis on cooperation highlights the importance of each individual's contribution and fosters a sense of community and shared purpose. By sharing this research, Bronwyn has successfully disseminated these materials to interested individuals, especially those at the Utah School for the Deaf, who can significantly benefit from the insights and solutions proposed by Minnie Mae.
Thanks to Bronwyn's efforts, Minnie Mae's impactful papers, which are an essential part of our historical research, were eventually made available to me for further review and preservation. Without her advocacy, I might not have had the opportunity to access them.
Bronwyn has not only highlighted the importance of these works but has also fostered ongoing discussions and collaboration among teachers, parents, and advocates. This emphasis on cooperation highlights the importance of each individual's contribution and fosters a sense of community and shared purpose. By sharing this research, Bronwyn has successfully disseminated these materials to interested individuals, especially those at the Utah School for the Deaf, who can significantly benefit from the insights and solutions proposed by Minnie Mae.
- Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz. Why the Deaf Can’t Read: Answers and Solutions. Brigham Young University. May 8, 1990.
- Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz. Exciting Developments in Deaf Education. Summer 1990.
The photos of Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz
and her family are shown below:
and her family are shown below:
The Wilding Family. Top (L-R): Minnie Mae, Doris, Lisa Lili, Cami and Ida. Bottom (L-R): Alan, Don, Della, Jerry, Terry and Sammy, 2011
Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz teaching a class Utah Valley State College, mid 2000s
Working alongside Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz, a fervent advocate for ASL/English bilingual education, has been a privilege. As a parent of Deaf children, I've seen her manage the leadership of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf, parent three small Deaf children, work full-time, and cope with her declining health. These were not just ordinary challenges; they were significant hurdles that she overcame with steadfast dedication. Despite the demanding nature of her roles, Minnie Mae's dedication to the Deaf community never wavered. In 2005, she played a pivotal role in the merger of the Utah School for the Deaf and the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf. This process was challenging, time-consuming, and required extensive planning; however, her commitment and careful consideration ultimately contributed to its success.
In addition, Minnie Mae's efforts not only improved the educational landscape for Deaf children in Utah but also fostered a greater sense of community and collaboration among families, educators, and advocates. Her legacy stands as an enduring example for those dedicated to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in education. Minnie Mae has also made an exceptional impact on the lives of Deaf and hard-of-hearing students through her collaboration with the school board, administration, teachers, and the wider community. Thanks to their dedicated efforts, the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf now provides these students with an accessible educational experience. This allows them to engage in direct communication and learn ASL from both their teachers and peers. Her work has not only improved the academic outcomes of these students but also instilled a sense of pride and empowerment in the Deaf community.
This collaborative approach has created a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for the students, which has significantly improved their educational outcomes. Minnie Mae's commitment goes beyond just academic success; she believes that success is also measured by students' sense of belonging and community. Her dedication to fostering such an environment ensures that every student feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential.
Minnie Mae was inspired by the 1997 Utah Deaf Bilingual and Bicultural Conference and was eager to contribute when she was elected chair of the Bi-Bi Committee. In her 1990 paper, "Exciting Developments in Deaf Education," she expressed her enthusiasm and admiration for the Indiana School for the Deaf for adopting a bilingual-bicultural approach. It's no surprise that she eventually became a co-founder of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf. Minnie Mae's unwavering passion was evident from the beginning, leading to the successful establishment of JMS in 1999. JMS continues to operate today, 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 its founding. Under her guidance, the school has fostered a vibrant community where students not only excel academically but also develop their cultural identity and social skills. Minnie Mae's commitment to inclusivity and excellence has inspired countless educators and students, ensuring that the legacy of JMS will endure for years to come.
I had the pleasure of working with Minnie Mae and her spouse, Julio, as we navigated the complexities of Deaf education in Utah. I will always be grateful for her mentorship during my early years in this field. She guided and supported me through the intricacies of the political system, inspiring me to be a better advocate for education. Her contributions to Deaf education have been invaluable, and her legacy continues to motivate and empower others today. Her fierce dedication to advocacy and her innovative teaching approaches have inspired countless educators and students alike. Her work has changed lives and established a standard of excellence in Deaf education that will resonate for generations.
Moreover, her commitment to inclusivity and accessibility has paved the way for more equitable educational practices, ensuring that every student receives the support they need to thrive. As new challenges arise in the field, Minnie Mae's influence remains a guiding light for advocates who strive to uphold her vision of a world where all learners can succeed. Her work has changed lives and established a standard of excellence in Deaf education that will resonate for generations, instilling hope for the future of Deaf education.
Thank you, Minnie Mae, for all that you do for the Jean Massieu School community, where Deaf and hard-of-hearing students can thrive through the ASL/English bilingual progrThrough this unique program, students gain proficiency in both languages and develop a strong sense of identity and empowerment.ent. Your dedication and support play a vital role in creating an inclusive environment where every student can succeed and reach their full potential. Once again, thank you!
Jodi Christel Becker
In addition, Minnie Mae's efforts not only improved the educational landscape for Deaf children in Utah but also fostered a greater sense of community and collaboration among families, educators, and advocates. Her legacy stands as an enduring example for those dedicated to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in education. Minnie Mae has also made an exceptional impact on the lives of Deaf and hard-of-hearing students through her collaboration with the school board, administration, teachers, and the wider community. Thanks to their dedicated efforts, the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf now provides these students with an accessible educational experience. This allows them to engage in direct communication and learn ASL from both their teachers and peers. Her work has not only improved the academic outcomes of these students but also instilled a sense of pride and empowerment in the Deaf community.
This collaborative approach has created a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for the students, which has significantly improved their educational outcomes. Minnie Mae's commitment goes beyond just academic success; she believes that success is also measured by students' sense of belonging and community. Her dedication to fostering such an environment ensures that every student feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential.
Minnie Mae was inspired by the 1997 Utah Deaf Bilingual and Bicultural Conference and was eager to contribute when she was elected chair of the Bi-Bi Committee. In her 1990 paper, "Exciting Developments in Deaf Education," she expressed her enthusiasm and admiration for the Indiana School for the Deaf for adopting a bilingual-bicultural approach. It's no surprise that she eventually became a co-founder of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf. Minnie Mae's unwavering passion was evident from the beginning, leading to the successful establishment of JMS in 1999. JMS continues to operate today, 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 its founding. Under her guidance, the school has fostered a vibrant community where students not only excel academically but also develop their cultural identity and social skills. Minnie Mae's commitment to inclusivity and excellence has inspired countless educators and students, ensuring that the legacy of JMS will endure for years to come.
I had the pleasure of working with Minnie Mae and her spouse, Julio, as we navigated the complexities of Deaf education in Utah. I will always be grateful for her mentorship during my early years in this field. She guided and supported me through the intricacies of the political system, inspiring me to be a better advocate for education. Her contributions to Deaf education have been invaluable, and her legacy continues to motivate and empower others today. Her fierce dedication to advocacy and her innovative teaching approaches have inspired countless educators and students alike. Her work has changed lives and established a standard of excellence in Deaf education that will resonate for generations.
Moreover, her commitment to inclusivity and accessibility has paved the way for more equitable educational practices, ensuring that every student receives the support they need to thrive. As new challenges arise in the field, Minnie Mae's influence remains a guiding light for advocates who strive to uphold her vision of a world where all learners can succeed. Her work has changed lives and established a standard of excellence in Deaf education that will resonate for generations, instilling hope for the future of Deaf education.
Thank you, Minnie Mae, for all that you do for the Jean Massieu School community, where Deaf and hard-of-hearing students can thrive through the ASL/English bilingual progrThrough this unique program, students gain proficiency in both languages and develop a strong sense of identity and empowerment.ent. Your dedication and support play a vital role in creating an inclusive environment where every student can succeed and reach their full potential. Once again, thank you!
Jodi Christel Becker
Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz' Family. Front Row L-R: Julio Diaz, Jr., Minnie Mae, Isabelle, Briella. Back Row: Tres, 2012
