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 Christel Becker
Published in 2016
Updated in 2025
Published in 2016
Updated in 2025
Author's Note
In the early 1990s, I had the wonderful opportunity to be a student at Ohlone College in Fremont, California. During that time, I embraced American Sign Language and immersed myself in Deaf Culture as both an oral and mainstream student. One of my most memorable experiences was with Ronald C. Burdett, the dean of the college's Deaf Program. He was always welcoming and friendly, which made my introduction to the vibrant and inclusive Deaf community truly special. The warmth and acceptance I felt from this community —a feeling of being truly included and valued —were incredibly meaningful to me, and I am deeply grateful for their kindness. Ronald C. Burdett deserves recognition for his outstanding work, and I can only imagine how proud his parents must be of all he has accomplished with Rainbow! Additionally, be sure to check out the video below; it's a great addition to this journey!
Thank you, Ron!
Jodi Christel Becker
Thank you, Ron!
Jodi Christel Becker
A Short Biography of Ronald C. Burdett
Ronald C. Burdett, commonly known as Ron, was born in Ogden, Utah. His parents, Kenneth C. Burdett and Afton Curtis, were Deaf, and both graduated from, as well as taught at, the Utah School for the Deaf. Ron also attended this school but left during his senior year in 1965 due to the declining quality of education and the increasing emphasis on oralism in the Deaf educational system. He then went on to attend Gallaudet College, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Computer Studies and Accounting in 1970, followed by a Master's degree in Special Education and Rehabilitation from California State University, Northridge.
Ron's journey was marked by successes in various professions, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. He served as the Vice President of Community Relations at Sorenson Communications, among other roles. His significant contributions to the Deaf community, including the naming of the Ron Burdett '70 Seminar Room in his honor, have left a lasting impact that is greatly appreciated.
Ron's journey was marked by successes in various professions, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. He served as the Vice President of Community Relations at Sorenson Communications, among other roles. His significant contributions to the Deaf community, including the naming of the Ron Burdett '70 Seminar Room in his honor, have left a lasting impact that is greatly appreciated.
Ronald C. Burdett. Photo courtesy of Sorenson Communications Inc.
On September 29, 2016, Gallaudet University honored Ron Burdett, a distinguished graduate from the class of 1970, by naming a seminar room after him. Ron's significant contributions to the Deaf community have been recognized, and his name now graces the Ron Burdett, '70, Seminar Room on the second floor of the Sorenson Language and Communication Center building. Ron expressed his gratitude to Gallaudet for the numerous opportunities it provided him to learn, lead, and pursue his goals. He credited his time at Gallaudet as the pivotal starting point for his leadership and success. He highlighted how his academic journey at Gallaudet, where he interacted with a diverse range of individuals, prepared him for his career and extracurricular activities.
The inclusive and diverse community at Gallaudet served as an ideal training ground for his future work in community relations at Sorenson Communications, where he connected with thousands of Deaf individuals. Ron's success story illustrates the transformative power of Gallaudet. This transformation not only shaped his professional skills but also deepened his commitment to advocating for the Deaf community. As he reflects on his experiences at Gallaudet, Ron emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and understanding in fostering meaningful connections and driving positive change.
The inclusive and diverse community at Gallaudet served as an ideal training ground for his future work in community relations at Sorenson Communications, where he connected with thousands of Deaf individuals. Ron's success story illustrates the transformative power of Gallaudet. This transformation not only shaped his professional skills but also deepened his commitment to advocating for the Deaf community. As he reflects on his experiences at Gallaudet, Ron emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and understanding in fostering meaningful connections and driving positive change.
Ron Burdett, ’70, poses next to his honorary plaque.
Gallaudet News. Photo by Zhee Chatmon.
Since Ron graduated from Gallaudet University in 1970, he has made significant contributions to the Deaf community, both professionally and personally. His work as an educator and administrator has had a lasting and enduring impact in the workplace. However, his contributions extend beyond his professional life. His strong work ethic and leadership abilities have served as a great source of inspiration for the Deaf community, and his influence has been felt throughout the state of Utah. Ron's achievements exemplify the potential of Deaf individuals, demonstrating that they can not only succeed but also thrive in their endeavors and make a meaningful impact on the Deaf community.
The ASL/English Bilingual Program at the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah, stands as 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, including student, boys' supervisor, head basketball coach, athletic director, teacher, printing instructor, and curriculum coordinator. Kenneth's unwavering dedication and selfless service, often going above and beyond his duties, honor his contributions while highlighting the Burdett family's deep-rooted legacy and significant impact on the Deaf community.
The ASL/English Bilingual Program at the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah, stands as 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, including student, boys' supervisor, head basketball coach, athletic director, teacher, printing instructor, and curriculum coordinator. Kenneth's unwavering dedication and selfless service, often going above and beyond his duties, honor his contributions while highlighting the Burdett family's deep-rooted legacy and significant impact on the Deaf community.
Kennth C. Burdett
A Legacy of Connections:
Honoring Ron Burdett
Honoring Ron Burdett
Enclosed is a video of "A Legacy of Connections: Honoring Ron Burdett," produced by Gallaudet University. Please watch it at your convenience for your entertainment and a glimpse into his life and contributions to the Deaf community. His dedication to advocacy and education has left a profound impact, inspiring countless individuals within and beyond the Deaf community. We hope you enjoy this tribute to his remarkable journey and the connections he fostered throughout his life and appreciate the significant impact of his work. Enjoy!
Reference
Greenname, Andrew. “Ron Burdett, ’70, honored at Sorenson naming ceremony.” Gallaudet: On The Green, October 3, 2016.
