Ronald C. Burdett, a Utah Native
and Gallaudet Graduate of 1970, Honors at the Sorenson Communication, Inc. Naming Ceremony
and Gallaudet Graduate of 1970, Honors at the Sorenson Communication, Inc. Naming Ceremony
Written by Jodi Becker Kinner
Published in 2016
Updated in 2024
Published in 2016
Updated in 2024
Ronald C. Burdett, who is commonly known as Ron, was born in Ogden, Utah. His parents, Kenneth C. Burdett and Afton Curtis, were deaf, and they both graduated from and taught at the Utah School for the Deaf. Ron also attended this school, but he left during his senior year in 1965 due to the declining quality of education and the growing emphasis on oralism in the deaf educational system. He then went on to attend Gallaudet College, where he earned his bachelor's degree in computer studies and accounting in 1970, as well as a master's degree in special education and rehabilitation from California State University, Northridge. Ron was successful in various professions, including serving as Vice President of Community Relations at Sorenson Communications. In recognition of his many contributions to the Deaf community, the Ron Burdett '70 Seminar Room on the second level of the Sorenson Language and Communication Center building was named after him on September 29, 2016.
On September 29, 2016, Gallaudet University honored Ron Burdett, a graduate from the class of '70, by naming a seminar room after him. Burdett has made significant contributions to the Deaf community, and his name now graces the Ron Burdett, '70, Seminar Room on the second floor of the Sorenson Language and Communication Center building. At the ceremony, Ron thanked Gallaudet for providing many opportunities to learn, lead, and pursue his goals. He credited his time at Gallaudet as a pivotal starting point for his leadership and success. He also emphasized that his academic experience at Gallaudet prepared him for his career and extracurricular activities, where he met diverse people. Ron realized this was great preparation for his future community relations work at Sorenson Communications, where he met thousands of Deaf people (Greenman, Gallaudet: On The Green, October 3, 2016).
Since Ron graduated from Gallaudet in 1970, he has made significant contributions to the Deaf community, both professionally and personally. His role as an educator and administrator has left an indelible mark in the workplace. However, his contributions extend beyond his professional life. Ron is a living embodiment of advocacy, equality, and inclusion, serving as a role model for emerging deaf and hard of hearing leaders. His work ethic and leadership abilities are a source of inspiration for the Deaf community. Utah takes pride in Ron's achievements, considering him an outstanding Deaf individual who has not only succeeded but thrived in all his endeavors, making a significant impact on the Deaf community.
Furthermore, the ASL/English Bilingual Program at the Utah School for the Deaf (USD) in Ogden, Utah, is a testament to the selfless service of Ron's father, Kenneth C. Burdett. From 1934 to 1974, Kenneth dedicated his life to the school, serving in various roles such as student, boy's supervisor, head basketball coach, athletic director, teacher, printing instructor, and curriculum coordinator. The recognition of Kenneth's service not only honors his contributions but also highlights the Burdett family's deep-rooted legacy and significant contributions to the Deaf community.
Furthermore, the ASL/English Bilingual Program at the Utah School for the Deaf (USD) in Ogden, Utah, is a testament to the selfless service of Ron's father, Kenneth C. Burdett. From 1934 to 1974, Kenneth dedicated his life to the school, serving in various roles such as student, boy's supervisor, head basketball coach, athletic director, teacher, printing instructor, and curriculum coordinator. The recognition of Kenneth's service not only honors his contributions but also highlights the Burdett family's deep-rooted legacy and significant contributions to the Deaf community.
In the early 1990s, I was a former oral and mainstreaming student who attended Ohlone College in Fremont, California. During my time there, I had the opportunity to learn American Sign Language and Deaf culture. Ron was the Dean of the Deaf Program at the college at that time. I remember him as being very welcoming and friendly, introducing me to the Deaf World. It was a privilege to get to know him, and he deserves recognition for his contributions. I am sure his parents, through Rainbow, would be proud of his accomplishments. Lastly, please feel free to watch the video below.
Enjoy!
Jodi Becker Kinner
Enjoy!
Jodi Becker Kinner
A Legacy of Connections
Honoring Ron Burdett
Honoring Ron Burdett
Reference
Greenname, Andrew. “Ron Burdett, ’70, honored at Sorenson naming ceremony.” Gallaudet: On The Green, October 3, 2016.