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 attend Ohlone College in Fremont, California. During that period, 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, affectionately known as "Ron," who was the dean of the college's Deaf Program. He was always welcoming and friendly, making my introduction to the vibrant and inclusive Deaf community truly special. Ron deserves recognition for his outstanding work, and I can only imagine how proud his parents, who have passed away, must be of all he has accomplished.
Additionally, be sure to check out the video below; it's an excellent addition to this journey!
Thank you, Ron!
Jodi Christel Becker
Additionally, be sure to check out the video below; it's an excellent addition to this journey!
Thank you, Ron!
Jodi Christel Becker
A Short Biography of Ronald C. Burdett
Ronald C. Burdett was born on September 20, 1947, in Ogden, Utah, to Kenneth Charles Burdett and Afton Curtis. He married Joyanne Kay Rasmus on June 20, 1970, in Lafayette, California. Together, they had two children: Reginald Scott Burdett and Jonalda Kay Burdett.
Growing up in a unique environment, both of Ron's parents were Deaf and graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf, where they also dedicated their careers as educators. Ron attended this school for much of his early education but left during his senior year in 1965 due to a decline in educational quality and a shift towards oral and mainstreaming approaches. He then enrolled at 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 significant success in various career paths. He served as a professor and dean of Deaf Studies and Special Services at Ohlone College. He held prestigious positions, including president of the California Association for Postsecondary Education and Disability, division director of the Southern Utah Deaf and Hard of Hearing Division, and vice president of community relations at Sorenson Communications, Inc. (UAD Bulletin, March 2006).
Growing up in a unique environment, both of Ron's parents were Deaf and graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf, where they also dedicated their careers as educators. Ron attended this school for much of his early education but left during his senior year in 1965 due to a decline in educational quality and a shift towards oral and mainstreaming approaches. He then enrolled at 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 significant success in various career paths. He served as a professor and dean of Deaf Studies and Special Services at Ohlone College. He held prestigious positions, including president of the California Association for Postsecondary Education and Disability, division director of the Southern Utah Deaf and Hard of Hearing Division, and vice president of community relations at Sorenson Communications, Inc. (UAD Bulletin, March 2006).
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 'The Ron Burdett, '70, Seminar Room' in the Sorenson Language and Communication Center. This recognition acknowledged his profound contributions to the Deaf community and his role in inspiring future leaders.
During the ceremony, Ron reflected on his time at Gallaudet, stating, "Like so many students before and after me, Gallaudet offered me many opportunities to learn, lead, and pursue my goals... Being immersed in the academic environment prepared me for my career and for extracurricular activities, where I met a diverse group of people. I didn't know it then, but this really prepared me for my future community relations work at Sorenson Communications, through which I have met thousands of Deaf people" (Greenman, Gallaudet: On The Green, October 3, 2016).
Since graduating from Gallaudet in 1970, Ron has achieved much as an educator and workplace supervisor. Gallaudet President Roberta J. Cordano remarked, "Ron represents advocacy, equality, and inclusion and is a role model for our emerging deaf and hard of hearing leaders" (Greenman, Gallaudet: On The Green, October 3, 2016). His strong work ethic and leadership skills serve as an excellent example for the Deaf community. Utah is fortunate to have a Deaf individual like Ron, who has demonstrated success in every endeavor. His achievements exemplify the potential of Deaf individuals, illustrating that they can not only succeed but also thrive in their pursuits and make a meaningful impact on the Deaf community.
His contributions extend beyond his professional life; his strong work ethic and leadership abilities have inspired many within the Deaf community, with his influence felt throughout Utah. Ron's achievements exemplify the potential of Deaf individuals, showing that they can not only succeed but also thrive in their endeavors, making a meaningful impact. Through his efforts, he has encouraged others to recognize their potential to bring about substantial change.
During the ceremony, Ron reflected on his time at Gallaudet, stating, "Like so many students before and after me, Gallaudet offered me many opportunities to learn, lead, and pursue my goals... Being immersed in the academic environment prepared me for my career and for extracurricular activities, where I met a diverse group of people. I didn't know it then, but this really prepared me for my future community relations work at Sorenson Communications, through which I have met thousands of Deaf people" (Greenman, Gallaudet: On The Green, October 3, 2016).
Since graduating from Gallaudet in 1970, Ron has achieved much as an educator and workplace supervisor. Gallaudet President Roberta J. Cordano remarked, "Ron represents advocacy, equality, and inclusion and is a role model for our emerging deaf and hard of hearing leaders" (Greenman, Gallaudet: On The Green, October 3, 2016). His strong work ethic and leadership skills serve as an excellent example for the Deaf community. Utah is fortunate to have a Deaf individual like Ron, who has demonstrated success in every endeavor. His achievements exemplify the potential of Deaf individuals, illustrating that they can not only succeed but also thrive in their pursuits and make a meaningful impact on the Deaf community.
His contributions extend beyond his professional life; his strong work ethic and leadership abilities have inspired many within the Deaf community, with his influence felt throughout Utah. Ron's achievements exemplify the potential of Deaf individuals, showing that they can not only succeed but also thrive in their endeavors, making a meaningful impact. Through his efforts, he has encouraged others to recognize their potential to bring about substantial change.
Ron Burdett, ’70, poses next to his honorary plaque.
Gallaudet News. Photo by Zhee Chatmon.
Ron passed away at the age of 78 on November 14, 2025, in St. George, Utah. His legacy continues through the countless individuals he inspired and the initiatives he championed. Friends and family remember him not only for his achievements but also for his unwavering belief in the power of community and the importance of uplifting others.
The Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah, honors Ron's father, Kenneth C. Burdett, with the ASL/English bilingual program. Known as the Kenneth C. Burdett School of the Deaf, it recognizes Kenneth's dedication to the school from 1934 to 1974, where he served in various roles, including student, boys' supervisor, head basketball coach, athletic director, teacher, printing instructor, and curriculum coordinator. Kenneth's passionate commitment and selfless service to the school not only honored his contributions but also highlighted the Burdett family's deep-rooted legacy and significant impact on the Utah Deaf community.
The Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah, honors Ron's father, Kenneth C. Burdett, with the ASL/English bilingual program. Known as the Kenneth C. Burdett School of the Deaf, it recognizes Kenneth's dedication to the school from 1934 to 1974, where he served in various roles, including student, boys' supervisor, head basketball coach, athletic director, teacher, printing instructor, and curriculum coordinator. Kenneth's passionate commitment and selfless service to the school not only honored his contributions but also highlighted the Burdett family's deep-rooted legacy and significant impact on the Utah 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.
"Ron Burdett Begins New Job at Sorenson." UAD Bulletin, Vol. 29.10 (March 2006): 5-6.
"Ron Burdett Begins New Job at Sorenson." UAD Bulletin, Vol. 29.10 (March 2006): 5-6.
