NADmag Spring 2016 | Volume 16, Issue 1
A Publication of the National Association of the Deaf NADmag | Spring 2016
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ABOUT THE Š 2016, is published by the NAD (USA), and is sent as a national membership benefit. For membership information, contact Member/Donor Relations at nad.info@nad.org or complete the contact form at: www.nad.org/contactus. Subscriptions: Libraries, schools, and similar institutions may subscribe to NADmag. For more information, complete the contact form at www.nad. org/contactus. Requests for Permission: Materials in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without written permission. Complete the contact form at www.nad. org/contactus or email nad.info@nad.org. Advertise in NADmag: For more information, go to www.nad.org/ advertise or email nad.info@nad.org.
8630 Fenton Street, Ste. 820, Silver Spring MD 20910 301.587.1788 / 301.587.1789 TTY nad.info@nad.org / CFC Number: 10356 MISSION STATEMENT
To preserve, protect, and promote the civil, human, and linguistic rights of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States of America. CONTACT / LEARN MORE
To contact the Board of Directors, complete the contact form at nad.org/contactus. For information about the Board, visit nad.org/board.
Publication of an advertisement in the NADmag does not imply NAD endorsement of a product or service. The NADmag is not responsible for advertisement contents. The National Association of the Deaf and the NADmag do not endorse or recommend any article, product, service, opinion, advice, statement, or other information or content expressed by third party authors. The views and opinions of such third party authors who have submitted articles to the NADmag belong to them and do not reflect the views of the National Association of the Deaf.
THE BOARD
ABOUT THE NAD The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) was established in 1880 by deaf leaders who believed in the right of the American deaf community to use sign language, to congregate on issues important to them, and to have its interests represented at the national level. These beliefs remain true to this day, with American Sign Language as a core value. As a nonprofit federation, the mission of the NAD is to preserve, protect, and promote the civil, human, and linguistic rights of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States of America. The advocacy scope of the NAD is broad, covering the breadth of a lifetime and impacting future generations in the areas of early intervention, education, employment, health care, technology, telecommunications, youth leadership, and more.
Secretary Joshua Beckman
For more information, visit www.nad.org.
Publisher NAD
ABOUT DESCRIBED & CAPTIONED MEDIA PROGRAM Described and Captioned Media Program 1447 E. Main Street, Spartanburg, SC 29307 800.237.6213 / 800.237.6819 TTY 800.538.5636 F info@dcmp.org / www.dcmp.org The DCMP is funded by the U.S. Department of Education and administered by the NAD.
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NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF THE DEAF
President Chris Wagner Vice President Melissa Draganac-Hawk
Region I Michelle Cline Steve Lovi Region II Jenny Buechner Richard McCowin
Treasurer Philippe Montalette
Region III Holly Ketchum Jerry Nelson
Appointed Members Alicia Lane-Outlaw Pamela Lloyd-Ogoke
Region IV Sherri Collins David Reynolds
EDITORIAL TEAM
Editor in Chief Lizzie Sorkin Editor Anita Farb Advertising / Sales Donna Morris
Guest Writers Michael Argenyi, Sarah Hein, & Amber Kimball Jody Cripps, Sheryl B. Cooper, & Elizabeth N. Austin Melissa Malzkuhn Trudy Suggs Rosa Lee Timm Designer Jess Thurber jathurber@gmail.com
COLOR THE COVER! Sharpen your pencils, get your crayons out, and have at it! When you’re done, Facebook or Instagram your masterpiece and tag @NAD1880. We’ll share some of your submissions, you may find yours in one of our posts or in the next NADmag issue! NADmag | Spring 2016
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RECURRING 6 8 11 13 14 17 35 48 51
Youth Leadership Camp and Me Rosa Lee Timm
From the President // Chris Wagner From the CEO // Howard A. Rosenblum Regional News // NAD Board Members The Deaf Side Spotlight
// NAD Staff and Board Members
#NADHandwave Deaf Culture Today // Lizzie Sorkin Donor List In Memoriam
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Isabella Graves & Ahmed Mohammad
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Breaking Down Barriers: Professionals & Students in Health Care
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Meet the Jr. NAD Ambassadors
// Maureen Klusza
FEATURES
Michael Argenyi, Sarah Hein, & Amber Kimball
The Role of the NAD during the American Eugenics Movement
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Melissa Malzkuhn
A Quick Look at Everyday Disempowerment of Deaf People
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Trudy Suggs
Whole Community & Deaf People: Emergency Prepardedness with People Who Sign Jody H. Cripps, Sheryl B. Cooper, & Elizabeth N. Austin
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NADmag Fall 2015 Error The NADmag printed the wrong disclosure for the Understanding Investment article in Fall 2015, Volume 15, Issue 2, pages 20-23: Correct disclosure: Securities offered through FSC Securities Corporation, member INRA/SIPC. Lee Kramer, Danny Lacey, and Stephanie Summers offer advisory services through FSC Securities Corporation, a Registered Investment Adviser. Traditional/fixed insurance products offered through Kramer|Wealth NADmag Spring 2016 Managers, which is not affiliated with FSC Securities Corporation.
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FROM THE PRESIDENT
A Farewell Letter BY CHRIS WAGNER NAD President Wagner reads a book to students at the Kinzie Elementary School during the Board’s visit in Chicago, April 2015.
So many wonderful memories pass through my mind as I write this article, my last as president of the NAD. The past 12 years with the NAD have been an incredible experience for me. My journey began in 2004 with my service as the Membership subcommittee chair on the Fulton 3 (F3) committee, which refocused the strategy and vision of the NAD with the Vision 2020 plan. After the F3 committee completed its work, I served as vice president under President Bobbie Beth Scoggins from 2006-2012. I have had the pleasure of serving as the NAD president for the past four years. Leaving the NAD Board will be bittersweet, as I will no longer be directly involved, but Staci and I will always be a part of this great organization and the many volunteers and supporters who are critical to its success. I love the NAD and am committed to its mission. My journey in leading the NAD wasn’t made alone. Throughout my service on the Board, I have been surrounded by so many dynamic people who share the same dedication to the NAD and helped ensure its many accomplishments. I have learned so much from all of the people that I have met through my time with the NAD that will carry me forward. Working with a diverse Board of Directors has been a rewarding experience and I would not change any of it. I owe so much to those people who stood behind me and supported me throughout some extraordinary challenges within our community. 6
In particular, I would like to express my deep appreciation to the members of the Board of Directors that worked with me during the past two terms when I served as President: Vice President Melissa Draganac-Hawk (2012-2016), Secretaries Kirsten Poston (2012-2014) and Joshua Beckman (2014-2016), Treasurer Philippe Montalette (20122016), Region 1 Board members Margie English (2010-2014), Steve Lovi (2012-2016) and Michelle Cline (2014-2018); Region 2 Board members Michael Berger (2012-2013), Jenny Beuchner (20132016) and Richard McCowin (2012-2016); Region 3 Board members Christopher Patterson (2010-2014), Larry Evans (2012-2015), Jerry Nelson (2014-2018) and Holly Ketchum (2015-2016); and Region 4 Board members Julie Rems Smario (2010-2014), David Reynolds (2012-2016) and Sherri Collins (2014-20180; and Appointed Board members Tawny Holmes (2012-2014), Joshua Beckman (2012-2014), Pamela Lloyd-Ogoke (2014-2016), and Alicia LaneOutlaw (2014-2016). All of them volunteered and gave up their valuable time to provide their energy, ideas, and wisdom in their service to the NAD. The NAD faced different challenges in each term, but nevertheless has accomplished so much through 33 presidents and seven executive directors/CEOs. I am proud of what we have accomplished in the past four years including: • Achieved full access to internet streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon; • Revitalized our education advocacy efforts including through development of our network
FROM THE PRESIDENT
of Education Advocates, implementation of the Education Strategy Team, and arranging a new tradition of Board meetings coinciding with visits to schools and programs for deaf children; • Compelled medical schools across the country to admit qualified deaf students seeking to become doctors and nurses; • Mandated numerous hospitals to provide appropriate and effective communications with deaf and hard of hearing patients, including imposing standards for limiting the use of Video Remote Interpreting (VRI); • Improved communications between the NAD and state associations as well as affiliates including restructured responsibilities for regional board members and affiliate representative; • Restoration of the State Legislative Affairs Coordinator position, which has assisted in monitoring state legislation as well as provided legislative advocacy training to deaf community members; • Ensured that deaf and hard of hearing people have the right to live together in affordable housing designed to meet their needs; • Advocated for deaf and hard of hearing truckers to get appropriate waivers for Commercial Drivers Licenses from the US Department of Transportation; • Developed strong position statements on a wide variety of issues including but not limited to education, employment, hospital access, mental health services, emergency management, technology, and more; and • Expanded the NAD Law and Advocacy Center to address the growing need for ongoing advocacy and litigation. I would be remiss if I did not recognize the true heroes – those who volunteered their time and served as chairs and members of our many committees. There are not enough words to express the thanks and appreciation of these great leaders. Without their passion and commitment, we would not have reached our achievements over the past 136 years. One of
the most difficult challenges among us is embracing change, but we have not and will not give up, as that is not an option for us. My sincerest thanks to our headquarters staff under the leadership of CEO Howard Rosenblum. Their tireless work and dedication to our community is immeasurable. I am grateful and certain that we can count on them in the years to come to take on the work that is needed to develop our leaders and advance our civil rights. But most importantly, my appreciation goes out to you, members of the NAD, for all your support. Without you, the NAD would not exist. Thank you for the opportunity to lead as I grew with the NAD. This is definitely one experience I will never forget. My life has been enriched beyond measure through my service with the NAD. I was one of those deaf children who grew up without a sense of belonging, and it has been wonderful to capture this belonging during my involvement with the NAD. We must all remember that we are here for all deaf children and recognize that we have the opportunity to nurture each deaf child to reach their full potential including through our example as role models. In closing, I ask each of you to please continue your support to the NAD and help all of us continue our journey to achieve the success we deserve. Our job is not done, but we can only do this together. — Chris Wagner
Chris Wagner has served as the NAD President since 2012.
NADmag | Spring 2016
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FROM THE CEO
BY HOWARD A. ROSENBLUM
NAD CEO Howard A. Rosenblum sits during one of the Council of Representatives meeting in Atlanta, July 2014.
The National Association of the Deaf has endured and thrived for 136 years, under the leadership of 33 presidents. For much of its history, the NAD did not have a home office or staff. This changed in 1966, when the NAD hired Frederick Schreiber as its first executive director and he went on to establish a home office and hire staff. Since then, there have been seven executive directors (which became chief executive officer during Nancy Bloch’s term). This year marks my fifth anniversary as the CEO, and it has been a wonderful privilege and honor to serve the NAD in this capacity. While we have had many accomplishments over the years, we have much more work to do to achieve equality. Even in 2016, deaf and hard of hearing individuals still experience paternalism, inaccessibility, scorn, and discrimination. Too often, language is denied to deaf and hard of hearing babies during their most precious initial years. Employers continue to overlook qualified and talented deaf and hard of hearing people seeking to contribute their skills. The media constantly misrepresents deaf and hard of hearing people either as pathetically needing charity or as majestically overcoming adversity. So-called justice systems across the country routinely deprive accused deaf and hard of hearing individuals of accessible legal representation and comprehensible 8
trials. Too many deaf and hard of hearing inmates languish in prisons isolated and unable to receive access to rehabilitation, medical services, work opportunities, or communication with the outside world. Cuts to mental health services are devastating to many but especially decimates already meager services for those who are deaf and hard of hearing needing help in this area. Hospitals have stopped bringing in qualified sign language interpreters for patients who need them and have begun providing Video Remote Interpreting that often fails to deliver effective communication for various reasons. Schools for the deaf face numerous challenges in many states including budget cuts, misguided attempts to remove ASL, a shortage of trained and skilled superintendents to replace many of those who are retiring, and threats to close schools. The NAD, with its small staff, endeavors to change many systems to better benefit all deaf and hard of hearing people. Our work focuses on influencing federal policies, litigating against discriminatory entities, collaborating with corporations, urging employers to increase hiring, developing best practice guidelines, promoting public dialogue, and much more. While our efforts have had significant effect, society will not change without the involvement of everyone.
FROM THE CEO
Every day, deaf and hard of hearing people experience injustice, discrimination, and oppression. Your stories are needed to help illustrate to the world why our work is important. The NAD depends on your stories to determine the work that we must focus on every year. At our biennial conferences, representatives from every corner of the USA come together and help the NAD decide on our top priorities for our staff to work on for the next two
all of these collective conferences, there will be a wide variety of interesting workshops for everyone to choose from and attend! Every night, the conference will provide a “NAD@ Night” event that will entertain everyone! Be sure to join us on July 5th as we begin with the Opening Ceremony that is sure to make you welcome! Participate as part of our Community Forum on July
Your stories are needed to help illustrate to the world why our work is important. years. Delegates also have the opportunity to elect a new Board of Directors and vote on changes to the Bylaws at the biennial conferences. The 2016 NAD Conference will take place in Phoenix, Arizona on July 5-9, 2016. Every person who comes will have the opportunity to participate in our General Forum, where the most important issues of the day are brought up and discussed. After all of the challenges and issues are submitted, the delegates will review all of them to determine which of these will be chosen as our highest priorities. Your participation is important to us, and we invite you to be part of the solution to these challenges. The week-long conference also offers everyone enjoyable opportunities to feel as part of a strong, close community. This exciting conference will mark a first in that three other conferences will take place at the same time and be incorporated in the NAD Conference! These conferences will be hosted by: Region V of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID); the first-ever National Deaf Education Conference; and Deaf in Government (DIG). Each of these will add workshops in their respective areas: interpreting; deaf education; and government employment. With
6th, as we include everyone in a full discussion about the main issues affecting our entire community. Then stay riveted for three straight nights of competition from July 7th to 9th – first, watch competing college teams battle for the trophy during the stimulating College Bowl; then, second, view young talented men and women match wits and skills as they vie in our Youth Ambassador Program (YAP) to become our ambassadors; and third, enjoy teams compete in our new “pulseTHAT” contest where contestants guess top answers to survey questions! Equality is our goal, towards which we must all work. The 2016 NAD Conference is an ideal place for all of us to come together, bond as one community, and achieve our goal. I look forward to seeing you in Phoenix!
Howard A. Rosenblum, Esq. has served as the NAD Chief Executive Officer since 2011.
NADmag | Spring 2016 2015
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REGIONAL NEWS
Region I
BY MICHELLE CLINE & STEVE LOVI
Michelle and Steve have had video conference meetings with the leaders from Region I state associations to discuss ongoing issues. Discussions have focused on efforts to pass state laws benefiting deaf and hard of hearing people. Maryland (MDAD) has two Town Hall/Symposiums planned for this Spring as well as a statewide Legislative Awareness Day to be held in March. MDAD received recognition from the National Alliance of Black Interpreters (NAOBI) DC Chapter for their advocacy efforts. Massachusetts (MSAD) has organized a statewide Call to Action event at the Statehouse to oppose proposed budget cuts to the state commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH). New Hampshire (NHAD) is working on introducing a state bill for early intervention, modeled after the LEAD-K bill. New Jersey (NJAD) is advocating for the state legislature to introduce a bill that will improve the New Jersey School for the Deaf.
Region II
New York (ESAD) has added several new committees focusing on education, legislative advocacy, mental health, and community needs, with a goal of increasing awareness of these issues and sharing concerns with state government agencies responsible. Pennsylvania (PSAD) selected Dr. Harvey Corson, past NAD Board Member, to be PSAD’s Executive Director. PSAD is planning its Youth Day on May 5th in King of Prussia, PA. Vermont (VTAD) successfully advocated for the creation of a new State Council for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services after the recent closure of major Deaf School program in the state. VTAD also held a Deaf Awareness Legislative Day at the statehouse to foster improved relationships with legislators. West Virginia (WVAD) is advocating with state legislature officials to pass a Deaf Child Bill of Rights law.
BY JENNY BUECHNER & RICHARD MCCOWIN
Many people from Region II attended the NAD Leadership Training Conference (NLTC) in Birmingham, Alabama. Jenny and Richard were ecstatic to see many old and new faces there! Those who attended were pleased with NLTC and brought many tools and resources back to their home states. Since then, many state associations have been busy
preparing for the current legislative session. Some states are focused on ensuring deaf children have access to language, pursuing the LEAD-K proposal, while other states are focused on other areas important to their communities.
NADmag | Spring 2016
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REGIONAL NEWS
Region II (cont’d)
BY JENNY BUECHNER & RICHARD MCCOWIN
Illinois (IAD), in partnership with the NAD, hosted its first Thanksgiving eve event, a tradition formerly hosted by the Midwest Center on Law and Deafness (which has closed). The evening was a great success! Jenny, Steve Lovi (Region I Representative), and Howard A. Rosenblum (NAD CEO) were able to attend on behalf of the NAD. Local talent provided entertainment. Recognition was given to local leaders for their hard work through volunteerism. It was a great way to bring together the community for a cause, give thanks to our leaders and volunteers, and have a grand time. We look forward to seeing that tradition continue for years to come! Kansas (KAD) continues to build and strengthen its Kansas Community Action Plan (K-CAP). The K-CAP members worked closely with a legislator in getting a bill “A Language Assessment Program for Children who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing” successfully introduced into the Senate and assigned as Senate Bill 444! This is the success they had hoped after training from NAD state legislative affairs coordinator, Kim Bianco Majeri. The community in Michigan is addressing concerns about the water situation in Flint, Michigan that many have heard about and how the Michigan
Region III
Iowa (IAD) has been busy dealing with the closure of an Interpreter Training Program (ITP) at the Iowa Western Community College. It will be closing down after current students complete their degree, which will have a tremendous impact on the community. The IAD is working to persuade the board overseeing the community college to retain the ITP. IAD will keep an eye on Eastern Iowa Community Colleges’ ITP in Davenport, Iowa, which will be the only ITP in the entire state of Iowa! All of Region II states are busy with their unique priorities for a better tomorrow!
BY JERRY NELSON & HOLLY KETCHUM
Holly and Jerry have been meeting with state association leaders via video conference meetings. Arkansas (AAD) hosted a workshop, “VRS and VRI Services: The Current State of Affairs” during their Conference in September 2015, with Holly and Jerry as the presenters.
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School for the Deaf is doing as it is based in that city. Michigan Deaf Association reports that the school is managing okay, and the students and staff are being provided with clean water. Many different individuals, organizations, and businesses that donated water, and monies to the school helping them work though the water crisis. There was a public town hall about the water crisis held specifically for the deaf community in Flint at Flint Association of the Deaf. The same town hall was held at MSD for parents, staff and kids at MSD.
Florida (FAD) are involved in advocating for Senate Bill 916 and House Bill 705, which are bipartisan efforts to improving educational services to K-12 students who are deaf and hard of hearing. This legislation will establish professional standards for all K-12 educational interpreters.
REGIONAL NEWS
Louisiana (LAD) is working with the Eisenberg and Baum law firm. This law firm has and will continue to provide training and advocacy information, as well as legal advice, to the deaf and hard of hearing community throughout the state. North Carolina (NCAD) is working with the deaf community and the deaf schools regarding concerns about two deaf schools with total enrollment of 150 deaf students. The legislators are taking closer look at both schools, especially the staff-to-student ratio. NCAD advocates are also concerned about public schools not informing parents and students about other options such as deaf schools. South Carolina (SCAD) is advocating with state legislators to support an interpreting bill and a dual relay bill. However, there is a possibility that all submitted bills may be set aside as the legislators are preoccupied with addressing road damage due to the floods in October 2015. Tennessee (TAD) is seeking, with cooperation of the Tennessee Department of Education, to establish a state agency that would oversee an educational interpreter licensure program. After such a program is established, TAD plans to advocate for legislators to pass an interpreter licensure bill. TAD is also working with the state, Tennessee School for the Deaf, and deaf community to find a replacement for the school’s Superintendent who retired in January 2016. The plan is to begin the interview process by May 2016. Texas (TAD) is taking steps to increase membership, hosted a board retreat, and participated in numerous exhibits and meetings throughout the state. TAD established a committee (TADACT) to function as a “legislative watchdog” and engage in more advocacy efforts. TAD is also working with University of Texas Law School to develop and submit to state legislators a LEAD-K bill for Texas. The legislature will not convene until 2017.
Region IV BY SHERRI COLLINS & DAVID REYNOLDS Twelve western State Association representatives have been meeting with Sherri and David monthly via videoconference. State Associations share concerns regarding the lack of interpreting services in their states. Many are working to develop legislative bills. Over the last four years, there have been changes in leadership with new presidents and board members in some states such as Hawaii, Washington, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Alaska, Montana, and California. The new leadership represents a great sign for the future of our state associations. There must be collaboration and empowerment at the state and local levels. Sherri and David are looking forward to the western region to host the NAD Conference this summer in Phoenix, Arizona! We look forward to seeing other state associations from other regions to join us!
The Deaf Side
By: Maureen “moe” Klusza
This is bob. Bob registered for the 53rd Biennial NAD Convention at Phoenix, Arizona. Bob announced it on his Facebook status. be like bob.
www.moeart.com
NADmag | Spring 2016
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SPOTLIGHT NAD Board and Staff Members answer:
Describe the Deaf & HoH community in one word.
ZAINAB ALKEBSI
JOSHUA BECKMAN
ANNA BITENCOURT, ESQ.
Diverse.
Beautiful.
Ambitious.
JENNY BUECHNER
MARC CHARMATZ STAFF ATTORNEY
REGION II REPRESENTATIVE
Embracing.
Happy.
Pride.
SHERI COLLINS
MELISSA DRAGANAC-HAWK VICE PRESIDENT
CONFERENCE COORDINATOR
CommUNITY.
Unique.
Dynamic.
TAWNY HOLMES
CAROLINE JACKSON STAFF ATTORNEY
COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST
Connected.
Phenomenal.
Versatile.
POLICY COUNSEL
REGION II REPRESENTATIVE
REGION IV REPRESENTATIVE
EDUCATION POLICY COUNSEL
HOLLY KETCHUM
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BOARD SECRETARY
ALICIA LANE-OUTLAW
STAFF ATTORNEY
MICHELLE CLINE
ANGELA ELLMAN
JAZZY JONES
PAMELA LLOYD-OGOKE
REGION III REPRESENTATIVE
APPOINTED BOARD MEMBER
APPOINTED BOARD MEMBER
Possible.
Interconnected.
Diversified.
STEVE LOVI
KIM BIANCO MAJERI
MICHAEL MICHNER
REGION I REPRESENTATIVE
STATE LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS COORDINATOR
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Creative.
Intertwined.
Enthusiastic.
PHILIPPE MONTALETTE
DONNA MORRIS
JERRY NELSON
BOARD TREASURER
MEMBER & DONOR RELATIONS SPECIALIST
REGION III REPRESENTATIVE
Passion.
Amazing.
Fluid.
RON NOMELAND
DEBRA PATKIN
DAVID REYNOLDS
MEMBER & DONOR RELATIONS ASSISTANT
STAFF ATTORNEY
REGION IV REPRESENTATIVE
Brainpower.
Vibrant.
Life.
ALLIE RICE
HOWARD A. ROSENBLUM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Synergy.
Powerful.
Ubuntu.
JASON STARK
CHRISTOPHER WAGNER
Strong.
Adventurous.
YOUTH LEADERSHIP COORDINATOR
DIRECTOR OF DCMP
LIZZIE SORKIN
PRESIDENT
NADmag | Spring 2016
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#NADHANDWAVE At any gathering, one will either see a wave of hands in the air from the audience or hear applause when an individual is recognized for his or her work. The #NADhandwave is a community initiative to recognize people in the deaf and hard of hearing community. The NAD belives advocacy lies at the heart of the deaf and hard of hearing community, and people’s efforts
should not go unnoticed. The #NADhandwave will go to any person who embodies the true spirit of the NAD, and has contribute valuable efforts to today’s society. If you know someone who deserves a #NADhandwave, submit your suggestion at www.nad.org/forms/ contact-NAD (select “#NADhandwave” as the area of interest).
October 2015 Peter John Rozynski
November 2015 Lauren Maucere
December 2015 Darlene Ewan
January 2016 Lauren Searls
February 2016 Victoria Monroe
March 2016 Carol Nemeck-Kowalski
#NADHANDWAVE
2015 NADmag | Spring 2016
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FEATURE
Rosa Lee stands in the third row, among other 60 campers. Rosa Lee credits Mark Wood, who can be seen on the top row (far right), for challenging her.
Youth Leadership Camp and Me BY ROSA LEE TIMM
Truth to be told, I would not be who I am today if it was not for Youth Leadership Camp (YLC). My year was 1991 in Stayton, Oregon and I had just turned 14 years old. I applied for the camp simply because of peer pressure and to, well, follow my parents footsteps as they were former YLC campers. In fact, my dad was one of the first campers (1969), whereas my mom followed suit the year after. She loved it so much that she went there again for a second time. After hearing all of their rave reviews, I decided that since I had no other plans that summer, that I ought to go, too.
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When Mark Wood (aka my YLC drama instructor) performed a story called “Dummy” on stage at YLC, I was thoroughly impressed—so impressed that he challenged me to get on the stage and recite his story to my fellow campers. I remember wanting to crawl out of my skin and disappear because I was painfully shy at that time. After some back-and-forth banter between Mark and me, I finally caved in and dragged myself on stage. Out of all the feelings that came crashing unto me as I walked on stage, safe was a feeling that stood out the most. I felt oddly safe. It was as if the stage had opened its arms towards me and so there I was, trying to remember how the story
YOUTH LEADERSHIP CAMP AND ME
Rosa Lee and her roommates—left to right: Tara (Duboski) Finkle, Amy Hoshina, Rosa Lee (Gallimore) Timm, Myra Yanke, Tanya Perry, Melody (Tsai) Stein, and Sara Lee Herzig.
YLC campers were divided into groups, Rosa Lee’s group was called “Blender.”
It will be enough for me to push myself, knowing that my stage will always welcome me back home. went. As I went along, I saw that I had begun to tell the story the same way Mark did through facial expressions and mannerisms. I saw that I was slowly turning into him and from that point on, I was completely inspired. While we all know that YLC is a leadership camp, not an acting camp, it was still a camp that taught me how to deliver my voice. It was a camp that gave me opportunities to fail. It was a camp that introduced me to who I really am. Fast forward twenty years later, Mark called me on my videophone out of blue. I think he decided that I was getting too comfortable performing on stage and that I needed another push, so he offered me a lead role in a feature film called Versa Effect with ASL Films. He wanted me to act with Russell Harvard whom I have never met and there I was… petrified again. At that time, I had no experience in film, but he had faith in me and as usual, he did not really give me much choice. So I said yes and dragged myself from Massachusetts to Austin, Texas with my 10 month old son in tow for nearly three months. You
can bet that my time with the Versa Effect crew was the most memorable and challenging experience I have ever had. I left with even more tools in my bag and a much greater sense of worth. As I wrote this article, I realized that this year marks my 25th year as a performing artist. Wow (and yes, I am that old)! What a journey it has been and I am proud to say that the stage and I have become good friends and that anytime I need to get myself out of my funk, I know I can count on my stage to be there for me. There were times when I felt bogged down with nervous jitters and self-doubt before a performance, then I would just simply transfer myself back to that Camp Taloali wooden stage. It was enough for me to push myself, knowing that my stage will always welcome me back home.
Rosa Lee is a mother of two young children and a Toddler Class teacher at California School for the Deaf, Fremont.
NADmag | Spring 2016
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FEATURE
Meet the Jr. NAD Ambassadors Editor’s Note: The 25th Biennial Jr. NAD Conference was held in Orlando, Florida, November 17-22, 2015. Isabella Graves and Ahmed Mahmoud attended as delegates from their schools. During the conference, they participated in the Jr. NAD Ambassador competition and were chosen as the finalists. We hope you enjoy getting to know them!
Isabella Graves My name is Isabella Graves and I am a junior at a mainstream school in Nebraska. I attended mainstream schools my entire life. Currently, I am involved in quite a few activities at my school including the Drama Club and the Speech Team. Other than school, I have two jobs and I am an active member of Jr. NAD. I recently became the secretary of my chapter, which led me to serve as a delegate at the Jr. NAD National Conference in Orlando, Florida. This experience expanded my knowledge of deaf culture, but also gave me a different perspective in life. I met so many beautiful, creative people that I truly consider as friends because we are all passionate about the same thing and we were able to connect over that. And to be honest, I haven’t been able to connect with kids my age in a real long time! It was truly an amazing experience to get together and not judge one another. I felt like I was treated as an equal and I never wanted to leave. The workshops were astonishing! I found myself really focused on what the presenter was saying and I lost touch with reality. I was THAT focused. As an ambassador contestant, I felt highly motivated to carry out my platform which was pointing out 20
the importance of Jr. NAD with those who are hard of hearing or deaf in mainstream schools that have no access to it. I remember the days when I had no clue about Jr. NAD and how I struggled. It was a dark time in my life and I had no hope due to years of bullying and loneliness in mainstreamed schools, because they didn’t understand me. Just when I was about to end my life for good, I was saved by Jr. NAD. This is why I want students who felt like I did to have the opportunity to join before it’s too late. But how? This is what I hope to accomplish as an ambassador. I want to give mainstreamed students who are like me an opportunity to join Jr. NAD. So far, I have set up meetings with hearing parents who are curious about what to do with their deaf/hard of hearing children. I use this opportunity to encourage their children to join, to learn what it’s like to be successful, confident, and determined to stand strong. We deserve to have a voice!
... I want students who felt like I did to have the opportunity to join before it’s too late.
Isabella Graves is a Junior at Seward High School in Seward, Nebraska.
MEET THE JUNIOR NAD AMBASSADORS
Ahmed Mahmoud My name is Ahmed Mahmoud and I am a junior at the Rochester School for the Deaf (RSD). I joined RSD Jr. NAD chapter in the fall of 2015. I serve as the Sergeant-at-Arms for my chapter. It gave me an opportunity to attend the Jr. NAD Conference as a delegate this past fall. I moved to Rochester, NY from Egypt when I was 9 years old. I’m the only deaf person in my family. Sometimes I had difficulty communicating with my family and I felt isolated. My family tried their best to stand up for me and to communicate with me in any way they could. I was frustrated throughout my years in mainstreamed schools as the only deaf
so many beautiful things, such as meeting new friends who have different strengths, interests and are so diverse. Meeting each other has made us grow stronger and smarter. I really enjoyed learning a lot from the workshop about how to find ways to solve problems when we are out in the world and becoming a better leader in the future. This also helped me build my selfconfidence and motivate me to participate a lot of activities. The reason why we were selected to be the Jr. NAD Ambassadors was because of our presentation on a social issue that we feel is important to the Deaf and
Don’t hesitate to ask questions; when it comes to your money, the only dumb question is the one you don’t ask. person. It was difficult to participate in the classes and sports I enjoyed. As a very shy person, I had a hard time socializing with the hearing students and felt embarrassed because of being the only deaf student. I had no friends and I was alone for five years, and it created a bad habit of not participating due to lack of encouragement and confidence in myself. I’m so lucky to have my mother who encouraged me to visit the Rochester School for the Deaf. I felt nervous socializing because it was the first time in my life meeting with deaf students, due to my lack of knowledge of deaf culture. This moment changed my life and I developed my American Sign Language (ASL) skills and knowledge of deaf culture, as well. RSD is my second home, full of fun, friends and learning. My friends and advisors convinced me to join Jr. NAD. This led me to new opportunities attending as a delegate to the Biennial Jr. NAD National Conference in Florida! This event that has impacted me the most in my life. I have experienced
hard of hearing community. I presented on language access for deaf foreigners in deaf schools. My solution was to be a mentor and to create a mentorship program. This was based on my own experiences coming to school in the United States from another country. This is what I hope to accomplish as a Jr. NAD Ambassador. I want to share with the deaf and hard of hearing students and bring my own experiences and ideas to them. Knowing my experience may help make them feel more welcome in their schools and to be successful in the future as well. I truly believe that they can do as they desire, and stand up for the deaf and hard of hearing community.
Ahmed Mahmoud is a Junior at the Rochester School for the Deaf in Rochester, New York.
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FEATURE
#JrNAD2015 Photo Collage
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JUNIOR NAD COLLAGE
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FEATURE
Breaking Down Barriers: Professionals & Students in Health Care Dr. Chris Moreland and certified interpreter Keri Richardson in the hospital. Photo credit: Mark C. Greenberg.
BY MICHAEL ARGENYI, MSW, SARAH HEIN, MS, BSN, RN, and AMBER KIMBALL, BSN, RN In 1978, Dr. Philip Zazove became one of the nation’s first deaf physicians. Following in his footsteps, veterinarian Danielle Rastetter quickly recognized that health care students and professionals with hearing loss face unique challenges. No resources existed to answer common questions. For example, how do I listen to a dog’s heart? What stethoscope works with my cochlear implant or hearing aid model? How do I understand what’s happening in the operating room when everyone has on surgical masks? Can I be a deaf EMT or nurse? Am I good enough? To establish definitive answers, Rastetter founded the Association of Medical Professionals with Hearing Losses (AMPHL) as an inclusive community in 1999. Participants flocked to the forums on the organization’s first website and AMPHL grew to host its first conference in 2001. Fourteen years later, AMPHL continues to play a pivotal role connecting deaf and hard of hearing health care professionals across the globe. Our conference in 2015 featured 24
150 attendees from several countries. By a wide margin, our conference highlight was Dr. Chris Moreland’s workshop on running an effective “Code Blue” with an interpreter. In June 2017, AMPHL will host its eighth conference in Rochester, New York, featuring simulation workshops set in the operating room, presentations geared to interpreters working with deaf health care professionals, and vendors demonstrating the latest amplified stethoscope models. AMPHL also monitors legal and political developments relevant to disability access. For instance, in 2012, AMPHL participated in a legal case on behalf of Michael Argenyi, a medical student at Creighton University. AMPHL’s legal brief contributed to his successful appeal for the provision of CART and interpreters, and has returned to complete medical school. More recently, in January 2016, our website broke precedent-setting legal news concerning deaf nurse Lauren Searls. The US Federal Court ruled that the need for an interpreter on the
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Registration
PACKAGES
Note: AzAD July 4th Bash and Attendance Verification are not included in any packages NAD@Night Adult (Opening Ceremony, Community Forum, COBO Final, YAP, pulseTHAT!) $180 before March 31 / $200 April 1 - May 31 NAD@Night Youth 18-30 (Opening Ceremony, Community Forum, COBO Final, YAP, pulseTHAT!) $170 before March 31 / $190 April 1 - May 31 NAD Youth (NAD@Night events, Youth Luncheon, and COBO Preliminary) $225 before March 31 / $245 April 1 - May 31 NAD Senior (NAD@Night events and Senior Citizen Luncheon) $225 before March 31 / $245 April 1 - May 31 NAD LGBT (NAD@Night events and LGBT Luncheon) $225 before March 31 / $245 April 1 - May 31 Full Combo (All events except AzAD July 4th Bash) $355 before March 31 / $375 April 1 - May 31
WORKSHOPS
ADD MORE TO YOUR REGISTRATION Y3-17 EVENTS
NAD Member Workshops $0.00 RID/NDEC Workshops $40.00 *Attendance Verification $100 *(Check ‘Attendance Verification’ box on the other side)
Opening Ceremony $0.00 College Bowl Preliminaries $0.00 College Bowl $0.00 Youth Ambassador Program Finals $0.00 pulseThat! $0.00
INDIVIDUAL EVENTS
PROGRAMS & MEAL EVENTS
Exhibit Hall $0.00 Opening Ceremony $40.00 Community Forum $0.00 College Bowl Preliminaries $10.00 College Bowl Finals $60.00 Youth Ambassador Program Finals $60.00 pulseThat! $60.00
AzAD's July 4th Bash $30.00 OGG Breakfast $30.00 LGBT Deaf Equality Luncheon $45.00 Youth Luncheon $45.00 Senior Citizens Luncheon $45.00
First Name: __________________________ Middle Name: _________ Last Name: __________________________ Total Number of Events Purchased: _________ Final Total: $__________ Billing Information I am paying by:
Check (to the ‘National Association of the Deaf’)
Credit Card
Visa
MasterCard
Name shown on the Card: __________________________________________ 16 Digit Card Account Number: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Three Digit CCV Code (back of the card): _ _ _ Expiration Date (MM/YYYY): _ _ / _ _ _ _ Same address as shown on the other side
My billing address is different, see below:
First Name: _________________________________ Middle Name: _________ Last Name: _________________________________
Postal Address: ________________________________________City: ___________________ State/Province: ______ Zip Code:_______ Country: ___________
Reminders
• By filling out and submitting this form, you acknowledge that you must be a NAD member at the time of your arrival. • You can add other optional events not listed in the packages above. If so, you will need to add these optional events and pay for them. • Please allow 4 weeks for processing. E-mail confreg@nad.org after 26 you submit your form via fax or mail to receive confirmation. • If this form is not complete, your registration will not be processed.
Mail/Fax Registration Use certified mail to: National Association of the Deaf 2016 NAD Conference Registration 8630 Fenton St, Suite 820 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Fax: 301-587-1791
Cancellation Policy
The registration refund schedule below is applicable in the event of cancellations, except for medical emergencies or death in family with required written documentation: Before March 31, 2016; 75% refund April 1-30, 2016; 50% refund May 1-31, 2016; 25% refund After May 31, 2016; 0% refund
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BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS
Current and past AMPHL board working on strategic planning for the organization at the May 2015 AMPHL conference board meeting in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Deaf veterinarian Kimi Ross examines a patient during an ICU shift at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of Washington State University. She will graduate in May 2016 and return home to rural Alaska where she will operate a mixed animal practice.
job cannot be denied based on cost; Searls’ job offer should not have been rescinded. Each of us carves out an answer on how to succeed in our field, and AMPHL provides a platform for crowdsourcing our ingenuity and adaptability. We strive to eliminate remaining obstacles for deaf and hard of hearing people in health care. AMPHL is bursting at the seams with members who were well supported and who have succeeded in different tracks of life. A small sample features a Deaf athletic trainer at Gallaudet, a bilaterally implanted otolaryngology surgical resident in Indianapolis, and an audiologist in Little Rock. Their stories can be found at: www. amphl.org. Our growing resource center also includes a blog with spotlight feature articles, information on surviving healthcare training programs, utilizing medical interpreters, and being a successful professional regardless of the type of hearing loss one has. We also provide a Facebook Page for events and updates, and a Facebook Group for questions, discussion, and support. Our Executive Committee
Tom McKnight, an athletic trainer, working with an athlete during a football game.
and Board of Directors are dedicated to paving the way for a diverse and representative workforce that is accessible. Our goal is simple — to be your go-to resource and enable anyone to persevere in becoming the best health care professional possible.
Michael completed his MSW at Boston University and will graduate this May with his MD from Creighton University. He is entering residency in Family Medicine at Northwestern University in Chicago this June.
Sarah is a hard of hearing nurse at Beaumont Health System in the Detroit area, and is very passionate about giving back to the deaf community.
Amber currently works at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital and will be starting her Nursing Ph.D. program at UNC-Chapel Hill this fall with a focus on improving communication in healthcare settings for people with disabilities.
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FEATURE
The Role of the NAD during the
American Eugenics Movement BY MELISSA MALZKUHN
In 1920, the NAD announced its disapproval of deaf marriages. As eugenic ideologies gained popularity and momentum in the United States, Deaf marriages were becoming a controversial topic. Since the NAD’s inception in 1880, they sought to represent and protect the interests and rights of deaf people as citizens. This article explores the role of the NAD during the eugenics movement. Francis Galton, an English scientist, first coined the term Eugenics in 1883 (cousin of evolutionary biologist Charles Darwin). Eugenics is a systemic idea of improving the human race by selective breeding. It gained traction and popularity in the late nineteenth century, as there was a huge influx of immigrants of nearly twenty five million people. 28
Americans began to define a desirable citizen as: able-bodied, intelligent, and of Anglo-Saxon descent, automatically making other races and ethnic backgrounds inferior. Eugenicists encouraged careful selection of marriage partners and pushed for governmental interventions, which led to sterilization laws in many states. By the mid-thirties, over twenty thousand sterilizations had been legally performed. Sterilization laws required classification of the “undesired”–among those on list included gypsies, alcoholics, the poor, and the disabled. To be classified was a considerable threat to the deaf community; mainstream America viewed deaf people as disabled, deaf people viewed themselves as ablebodied and functioning citizens. As eugenic ideology spread across America, and prominent eugenicists
AMERICAN EUGENICS MOVEMENT
“Statistics and observation have shown that the liability to deaf offspring is increased to a marked extent by (1) intermarriage of the congenitally deaf, and (2) marriage of the congenitally deaf into families having deaf relatives. Resolved, that the National Association of the Deaf go on record viewing such marriages with disapproval and earnestly urge the deaf to avoid such unions if possible.” —1920 National Association of the Deaf (NAD) Convention
lectured at colleges and universities on careful marriage selection, deaf people found their personal lives becoming public concern. From 1880 to 1940, the NAD was led by a succession of fourteen different presidents. Each administration had their focus and priorities, which was outlined through conference proceedings, and through their activities. The NAD sought to defend and show deaf people as productive and participating citizens in every aspect; the deaf community also adopted mainstream America’s concept on “good citizenship”, which meant marrying fit partners and that having deaf children was undesirable. The deaf community was in agreement at the time that no one should want or desire to have a deaf offspring, but choosing whom to marry was a personal right in their pursuit of happiness. The NAD acted as a watchdog on legislation concerning sterilization and any time a state brought up legislation, the NAD would act to ensure that deaf people were not classified as unfit.
Deaf marriages were discussed frequently, often debated as the “right to choose and to pursue happiness” versus “good citizenship.” Alexander Graham Bell was an ardent eugenicist and advocate of the oral method. He advocated for the oral method instead of sign language because he believed that through speaking and lip-reading, deaf people could best assimilate into hearing society and would be able to marry hearing partners. He viewed sign language as a way for deaf people to become clannish and by nature, they would marry one other, and give birth to deaf children. In 1883, he presented at the National Academy of Sciences in Connecticut on “Memoir Upon the Formation of a Deaf Variety of the Human Race.” Bell himself had a deaf mother, married a deaf woman, and had conversational knowledge of sign language. He came to Gallaudet College in 1891, to speak against deaf marriages, arguing that a deaf child was a burden. Edward Miner Gallaudet, who disagreed with Bell publicly on the method of deaf education, shared the same views when it came to marriage. NADmag | Spring 2016
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Gallaudet himself encouraged deaf people to choose hearing partners, “it is generally better for a deaf person to marry one who hears, rather than to take a deaf partner.” The Silent Worker, a significant deaf newspaper of the time, discussed Gallaudet’s advising against the congenitally deaf to intermarry. At the NAD convention in 1893, there were two papers presented on deaf marriage, with the same title, “Should the Deaf Marry the Deaf?” One was by Jean Olivier, from France, and one was by Dudley
He stated that, “the deaf have no more desire to see their children deaf than hearing parents, but should any of them happen to have a deaf child, they would know what to do with him.” Both papers emphasized the right to pursue happiness and that it is rare for deaf marriages to result in deaf offspring. Bell commissioned Edward Allen Fay, then editor of American Annals of the Deaf, to compile an extensive analysis on deaf marriages in America. Fay’s report, delivered in 1898, was 528 pages long
Gallaudet himself encouraged deaf people to choose hearing partners, “it is generally better for a deaf person to marry one who hears, rather than to take a deaf partner.” W. George, NAD President, who had a deaf father and married a deaf woman. He argued that the liberty of choice and happiness were important.
Dudley W. George argued that the liberty of choice and happiness were important on the issue of Eugenics.
detailing marriages and statistics of 4,471 deaf individuals. Fay concluded “marriages of the deaf are far more likely to result in hearing offspring than in deaf offspring.” This report discredited Bell’s theory, but eugenic ideology still took hold of America and the controversy on deaf marriages continued. There was no mention of deaf marriages in the NAD proceedings from 1896 and 1899, but the topic appeared in St. Louis at the 7th NAD convention in 1904. The NAD released a statement advocating deaf marriages: “The deaf often marry the deaf. Such marriages are generally more happy than when the deaf marry hearing partners.” George W. Veditz was elected President in 1904, and continued to serve two consecutive terms, the first to do so. Veditz is known for his campaign on the preservation of American Sign Language and the NAD films. At the 1907 NAD convention, during his Presidential address, Veditz warned about the negative implications of eugenics, “I refer to the old spectre of the greatest menace yet offered to the happiness of the adult deaf – the proposition
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AMERICAN EUGENICS MOVEMENT
“As deaf-mutes among the other inhabitants of this country, we have interests peculiar to ourselves, and which can be taken care of by ourselves.” — Theodore A. Froehlich to forbid or restrict their intermarriage.” Veditz warned about the plans of the American Breeders Association (ABA) to restrict marriages. Veditz explained that ABA, in the previous year, 1906, established a division on eugenics and a “Committee on Eugenics,” which Bell served on. Veditz asked for an end to “humiliating and unjust classification” and cautioned that even “so far, on paper and is merely a threat still I would call upon this convention to express itself in indignant protest.” The NAD formed a committee, also called Committee on Eugenics to investigate ABA’s actions. At the next convention, in 1910, the NAD Committee on Eugenics delivered their report. Led by James L. Smith, he reported that the committee corresponded with Bell and David Starr Jordan (then President of Stanford University) and learned that there were no plans of including the deaf on their proposed bill to restrict marriages. Based on this information, the NAD Committee on Eugenics disbanded. In 1908, Bell published an article in Volta Bureau’s Association Review, which also appeared in National Geographic, (to which Bell’s family has made significant funding donations) called “A Few Thoughts Concerning Eugenics.” In this article Bell affirmed his position that he was not in favor of deaf marriages, but marriage was a matter of choice between the two concerned individuals. Bell believed that legislation restricting marriages would not make a difference; but that it is better to educate people about hereditary defects, as it would help them choose the right partners. James L. Smith, member of the NAD Committee of Eugenics, wrote in his editorial for The Companion, that he believed deaf adults should “take a strong stand in opposition
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James L. Smith led the NAD Committee on Eugenics.
to mating of deaf persons who have the hereditary tendency on both sides.” James L. Smith was President of NAD from 1900-1904. Despite the apparent division of the deaf community on deaf marriages, the desire for agency, or free will, remained consistent. The strategy appointed by the NAD to remain true to its mission and protect the rights of deaf citizens was most evident through Clayton McLaughlin’s paper presented at the 1917 NAD convention in Hartford. In his paper, “The Intermarriage of the Deaf,” McLaughlin stated that offspring with hereditary deafness was increasing and that it posed a risk of being classified with feeblemindness. He encouraged the prevention of marriage between two congenitally deaf adults, and said “unless we take our own initiative in this matter,
AMERICAN EUGENICS MOVEMENT
society will get after us.” He recommended that the NAD “should declare itself against the intermarriage of the congenitally deaf, and begin a propaganda of education with the view of discouraging intermarriage between persons possessed of hereditary deafness.” In his paper, McLaughlin stressed again that the NAD should inform eugenicists, organizations, and politicians that the deaf community is handling the responsibility, “I would also keep this matter from being handled by legislative bodies, we may then, and only then feel we are doing our duty to society.” Sifting through documents, correspondence, papers, newspapers and conference proceedings, it is suggested that the NAD passed the 1920 resolution as part of a strategic response to the pressures of societal expectations and to avoid forced legislative measures. Deaf people sought to ‘normalize’ themselves, as to prove they are good citizens; eugenic ideology posed a conflicting perspective. Although the perspectives varied within the community, the NAD ensured they maintained a unified façade. The NAD continued to keep a vigilant watch on eugenics and any legislation concerning sterilization and marriage through the 1930s. By the 1930s, over twenty thousand people were legally sterilized, and over half of the states had set legislative measures. Deaf people continued to marry, and at the 1920 convention, when the NAD announced itself against deaf marriages, The DeafMutes Journal ran a headline, “Mutes Wed While at the N.A.D. Convention.” (See back cover.) The right for complete agency, the capacity to act independently and to make one’s own free choices, was the goal. The mindset can be best summed by Theodore A. Froehlich, a prominent Deaf leader, who declared at the inaugural convention in 1880: “As deaf-mutes among the other inhabitants of this country, we have interests peculiar to ourselves, and which can be taken care of by ourselves.”
Deaf Mutes Journal in 1920 ran a headline “Mutes Wed While at the N.A.D. Convention”
Author’s Note: For further reading on this topic, a book chapter is in press now: “Compromising for Agency: The Role of the NAD during the American Eugenics Movement (18801940) from In Our Own Hands: Essays in Deaf History (1780-1970), edited by Brian Greenwald and Joseph Murray, Gallaudet University Press. I would like to thank Brian Greenwald for clueing me in on the 1920 resolution, which ignited my curiosity and got me digging through the Archives, and I would like to thank Sylvie Soulier for editing and inspiring me to finish. References available at: www.nad.org/NAD-and-US-Eugenics.
Melissa Malzkuhn is a storyteller, digital strategist, and creative director with a fascination for languages, cultures, and history. Melissa designs interactive and immersive learning experiences.
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DEAF CULTURE TODAY
What does it take to get in the White House? Leah Katz-Hernandez, Receptionist of the United States, AKA “ROTUS”, shares about her experience working for the President of the United States, and more.
Leah Katz-Hernandez BY LIZZIE SORKIN
What’s your daily routine, from getting in the door until you leave for the day?
The President’s schedule changes often so my schedule can be different every day. Usually, I’m at the White House by 8:45am. We have morning meetings in the West Wing and I greet all the West Wing guests for the President and his Senior Staff throughout the day. Sometimes, we have logistics that need to be worked out for our West Wing meeting rooms and I’m a part of that process. I also manage scheduling, the official White House Guest Book, and a few other things throughout the day. What were some of the challenges you faced when you first arrived?
It depends how you define when and where I really got my first “start.” I was a volunteer in the 2008 campaign, both at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, Colorado, and in the state of Virginia. I then interned at the White House in 2010. My biggest challenge during those times was Leah Katz-Hernandez at the White House.
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DEAF CULTURE TODAY
It was because of them that I am here and that day I felt a powerful gratitude to the activists and advocates past and present.
figuring out how to relate to people and how to make them feel comfortable around me. I spent a lot of time building up my work relationships with other people and that paid off by the time I was hired as a full-time White House staffer. My relationships were proof that I was not only qualified in my skills, but I was also a part of the team. Talking to people is an investment you have to make in every profession, especially in the early days. What are some cool perks of your job? I really enjoy meeting a wide variety of people and I get to meet the most extraordinary people in the world every day. But really, the best part is working for such an incredible leader - President Obama. It’s a big honor and one that I never tire of. I understand you’re in school as well, what are you studying? How do you manage your job and your studies? I am currently in graduate school, studying towards my Professional MA in Strategic Communication at American University. I picked this program because I knew that education is the best way to get ahead. I am able to manage both school and a full-time job by taking weekend classes and doing homework on weeknights. My younger brother (who is also deaf) has been an excellent support system in keeping me sane through it all. We see each other almost weekly and it’s just a 36
good mental break to hang out with him. Everyone can work hard, but the challenge is finding time to take a break! What are your top three favorite memories from working at the White House so far? 1. Seeing DEAF CHILDREN coming in to the White House! 2. Seeing President Obama sign the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act in 2010. I was just an intern but was lucky enough to come to the bill signing. It was deeply meaningful to me as a deaf person. 3. The Americans with Disabilities Act 25th Anniversary event. The whole day, I saw so many people from the deaf and disability community who had worked so extremely hard to ensure our civil rights and equality in United States. It was because of them that I am here and that day I felt a powerful gratitude to the activists and advocates past and present. The job of civil rights advocates and activists may be very challenging and difficult, but they were ultimately honored and celebrated by President Obama in the White House. That was a very proud day for my community and me. What are some misconceptions about your job? I do not just sit there and wave at people all day long! I am often busy on my computer with many different tasks in between welcoming the guests into the West Wing Lobby.
DEAF CULTURE TODAY
The White House in Washington, D.C.
Government deeply impacts the deaf community and every one of us, so when we have more deaf people in public service full-time, it really improves understanding about us on both a human level and policy level. Is there anything else you’d like to share for NADmag readers? Please encourage our youngsters towards a career in public service. Government deeply impacts the deaf community and every one of us, so when we have more deaf people in public service full-time, it really improves understanding about us on both a human level and policy level. The best way for young deaf people to get their break into this career is through internships. I encourage everyone to research internship opportunities in public service, like with their Members of Congress or local and state governments.
Lizzie Sorkin is the Director of Communications at the NAD.
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FEATURE
A Quick Look at
Everyday Disempowerment
of
Deaf People Inspired by the original article by Trudy Suggs on Deaf disempowerment, Nancy Rourke painted Deaf Disempowerment.
The Deaf community certainly has come a long way over the decades, even if the pendulum constantly swings from one side to the other in terms of education, discrimination, access, and equality. It is so important that we all are aware of the rights we hold as humans who are Deaf. That itself is a given; nobody would argue otherwise with us. Yet, we allow ourselves to put up with everyday disempowerment, especially for small, seemingly innocent situations. In order to reduce this, we need to first understand what disempowerment is. Everyday Acts of Disempowerment The word disempowerment has quite a simple definition for such a powerful concept: to take away power. When we think of disempowerment, we usually think of things like not being provided interpreting services, watching films or TV without captions, being told not to sign, having our lives decided or even dictated by people with no knowledge of ASL or Deaf culture, or seeing hearing actors in roles portraying Deaf people. Yet there are smaller, everyday acts that hold just as much capacity, if not more, to disempower us.
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BY TRUDY SUGGS
How many times have you logged onto Facebook or Twitter only to find that your (hearing) friends, parents, relatives or even spouses have posted videos that aren’t captioned? Then when you ask them for a transcript, they say, “Oh, darn, I never thought about that,” yet they do it time after time. Another example is when hearing parents speak about their deaf children in front of the children, yet the children don’t realize the conversation is about them. Countless examples of everyday disempowerment happen in the workplace, of course. Meetings that aren’t interpreted, water cooler conversations where the Deaf person can’t participate, the annoyance factor (when a boss rolls his eyes at a request for an interpreter), being underestimated because you’re Deaf, the office dialogue that takes place over cubicle walls as you’re sitting at your station working; the list goes on and on. Sure, there are accommodations, but it’s just not the same as direct communication access. How about if you’re writing down something at a fast-food restaurant or even a store—perhaps your order or a question—and the employee, as you’re
EVERYDAY DISEMPOWERMENT
It is so important that we all are aware of the rights we hold as humans who are Deaf. writing, starts working with another customer? This tells not just you, but also other people, that you’re not worth the wait. Maybe you’re talking with someone who knows that signing and speaking at the same time is combining two separate languages, making it difficult for you to easily access this information. Yet you know if you ask that person to turn off his/her voice or remove his/her speech privilege, that person might be offended. So you end up simply saying nothing as you struggle. These are minor acts of disempowerment that we’ve become so accustomed to, and we usually don’t do much about them because it’s just not worth the battle. The cycle then continues, because by just accepting these incidents, we are in essence telling the other people that they can continue doing this, even though it’s really not okay. Disempowerment through ASL Teaching ASL is another example of everyday disempowerment that many have come to accept as the status quo. There are thousands of ASL teachers in the nation. How many are deaf? No real statistics exist on this yet. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of certified Baby Sign Language instructors. How many are deaf? A very small percentage. Just go to the bookstore and take a look at all the baby signs books, or look up local baby sign language classes; the majority is taught by hearing people who aren’t necessarily fluent in ASL. Are all the Deaf Studies and ASL programs in the nation run by Deaf people? No. How about agencies serving Deaf people, state commissions for Deaf people, and organizations focusing on things like baby signs? Are there more Deaf administrators than hearing in these positions? Probably not. How many deaf-run interpreting agencies can you name off the top of your head? What’s wrong with this picture?
A common response to why a deaf person isn’t at the helm of a program or agency working with deaf and hard of hearing people is, “We advertised the position and couldn’t find anyone qualified.” That certainly could be the case. Still, such situations have ripple effects: deaf people aren’t hired, and those outside of the deaf community, in turn, continue to have beliefs and perceptions shaped by hearing people. These hearing people then believe they can educate others about us, rather than bringing in appropriate Deaf community representatives. If no qualified deaf person applies for a position, there needs to be a short-term and long-term remedy. One possible solution is to keep the position open for as long as possible until someone who is qualified and deaf is hired. Another potential solution is to have an interim director in place, hire someone who is definitely capable of doing the job, and train that person until she or he is ready to take the helm. Is that costly and cumbersome? Perhaps. Cost-beneficial and cost-effective in the long run? Absolutely. Interpreters: An Imbalance Interpreters have always been, and likely will always be, a great source of disempowerment. One challenge for many Deaf consumers is at medical appointments, when interpreters go into the hallway whenever the nurse or doctor leaves, instead of staying in the room with the Deaf patient. From an interpreter’s perspective, this is necessary given the many opportunities for ethical dilemmas. For instance, if the Deaf patient says something to the interpreter that is medically relevant, but doesn’t share this information with the doctor, is the interpreter bound to tell the doctor? Yet, is it really fair to keep the patient isolated in a room where there’s no visual access to all the sounds and conversations that a hearing patient could overhear? Many Deaf people say no. NADmag | Spring 2016
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Anita Buel, a Deaf community health worker (DCHW) in Minnesota, has an ongoing frustration. CHWs are certified, trained advocates who accompany patients in their own communities (in this case, the Deaf community) and provide advocacy, information, and clarification for patients who may feel overwhelmed by medical jargon, procedures, and the overall health system. DCHWs, however, are not certified deaf interpreters (CDI); they have as much of a need for interpreters as the Deaf patients. Buel says she gets frustrated when she knows interpreters are in the hallway waiting, and then they come into the room already deep in conversation with the doctor or nurse. This, to her, shows that if the patient already is at a disadvantage, because oftentimes interpreters build relationships with medical professionals and therefore aren’t always
must also have the necessary (even if minimal) training in all the aspects involved with interpreters. Yet, this creates a major imbalance in knowledge, and power. Think about it: do Deaf people have the same access to education as interpreters? No. Are Deaf individuals generally trained to work with interpreters, on advocating for interpreter quality, and on how the interpreting process ideally works? No, absolutely not. Deaf people have had to constantly educate each other on a grassroots level on how to deal with interpreting dilemmas. Is there any training provided to Deaf people in elementary school through adulthood on how to work with interpreters in various settings, or on self-advocacy? Unfortunately, the answer is no once again. There is a deaf self-advocacy training
When Deaf people do not receive this same knowledge, this has deep-seated repercussions. perceived as neutral parties. Interpreters, by doing this, also have a rapport established with the medical staff that patients often struggle to establish because of the three-way communication. An Imbalance in Knowledge Many people, both deaf and hearing, have appropriately lauded the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) for increasing its standards and professionalism among interpreters within the past few years. Yet there is one act of disempowerment throughout this progress that has been deeply, and easily, overlooked: the knowledge imbalance, which creates a major disadvantage for Deaf people. The RID requires its interpreters to have bachelor’s degrees, among other criteria; this is a fantastic requirement because it ensures that interpreters are educated. Interpreters, to receive certification,
curriculum available through the National Consortium of Interpreter Education Centers, but even this curriculum is limited in its contents and availability. On the flip side, sometimes Deaf people aren’t fully educated on the interpreter’s role. Those individuals might mistakenly claim interpreters are oppressive or not doing their jobs, when in reality they are doing exactly what their jobs require. Keep in mind that most interpreters receive years of formal, professional training in everything from ASL to ethics to business practices. Interpreters are also tested on their knowledge and skills, and then maybe certified. Interpreters are given the knowledge that Deaf people so greatly need and deserve. When Deaf people do not receive this same knowledge, this has deep-seated repercussions.
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EVERYDAY DISEMPOWERMENT
Whether we like to admit it or not, interpreters have an incredible amount of jurisdiction over our access to people, interviews, medical appointments, education, phone calls, and pretty much everything else. This isn’t necessarily bad, as long as they use this power appropriately and without malice. But this socalled jurisdiction can create even further potential for conflict and division. On top of that, this power imbalance can become magnified in small towns where interpreters might, by default, rule the roost because everyone knows everyone. This has happened time after time, where Deaf people lose jobs, are rejected for jobs, are perceived as unintelligent, and so much more all because they had conflicts with interpreters. Understand, Analyze and Act The NAD has fought for equality among Deaf people for more than a century, and has produced some of the most remarkable leaders in American history. Yet each and every leader within the NAD, both at the state and national level, is guaranteed to have at least three stories of disempowerment running the gamut of minor to major incidents. In addition to educating ourselves, we need to learn how to come together to prevent or reduce disempowerment in any form or shape. It’s crucial that we recognize that disempowerment doesn’t always happen on purpose; it’s often by accident. Even so, that doesn’t mean it’s okay. As renowned vlogger and blogger Franchesca “Chescaleigh” Ramsey says, “It’s not about intent. It’s about impact.” What can we do, as Deaf people, to help lessen disempowerment ranging from simple acts to indepth, intentional acts? First, we must understand what disempowerment is, how it affects us, and why it affects us. Even the seemingly small acts of disempowerment that we’ve become so accustomed, almost immune to, have major impact on our everyday lives as Deaf people. It is crucial that we,
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as Deaf people, become fully educated on acts of disempowerment, the interpreting process, on our roles, on our legal rights, and on how to deal with conflict or oppression. This kind of education should start at the earliest stages of our lives as Deaf people, so that we go throughout life knowing what we’re supposed to do. This would help lessen so much of the disempowerment that takes place. It would also help reduce the ingrained frustration that often comes from encountering such disempowerment, because we would have the tools to take the next steps. We must also be careful to remember that if a deaf person expresses frustration, it doesn’t necessarily mean she or he is angry, divisive or separatist. Rather, take a look at the situation, and figure out how all parties have contributed to the situation. By understanding the gravity of each situation, small or large, we can then come to analyze the steps leading up to that situation and what we can do next. By understanding all the parties involved and their perceptions, and by figuring out what resources we have, we can then determine steps of action. Finally, we can then act on the disempowerment through appropriate steps. We must always strive for access to the same education as our hearing allies (interpreters, parents, friends, and other supporters). By working to minimize disempowerment, we can then have access to equality, to communication, and most importantly, to being human. The original disempowerment article can be found at http://www.streetleverage.com/2012/12/deafdisempowerment-and-todays-interpreter.
Trudy Suggs has traveled the nation for several years presenting on Deaf disempowerment, and how we can come together as allies. She is currently developing online courses on this topic. She owns T.S. Writing Services and makes her home in Maryland.
FEATURE
Whole Community and Deaf People: Emergency Preparedness with People Who Sign BY JODY H. CRIPPS, SHERYL B. COOPER & ELIZABETH N. AUSTIN
The “whole community” is a new movement in the United States, started by a government agency called the United States Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA). The whole community includes everyone, and this concept suggests that all groups should be involved in leading the community. As one example, Deaf people are part of the whole community and should be involved in the preparedness, response, and recovery phases of disasters. Emergency responders (police, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians) must understand how to work with Deaf people and how Deaf people can help them. Emergency managers are the individuals who plan for disasters in their jurisdictions. It is important to stop spreading wrong information about Deaf people and American Sign Language (ASL). The plan presented below includes ideas to help Deaf people and emergency managers and responders work together. Background of the Whole Community FEMA’s whole community idea is to encourage people to work together to avoid problems in emergency situations (FEMA, 2015). There are three parts to this idea (FEMA, 2011), which can help the Deaf community and other groups:
1. Emergency managers must satisfy the needs of everyone in the whole community. • They must understand what each group of people needs. • They must understand who is in the community and how the community gets along. • They must understand real-life safety needs. • They must involve different kinds of people from different groups to participate in practice activities to prepare for emergencies. 2. Emergency managers and responders must work with all people in the community. • They must help people plan for the needs of everyone in the community, • They must help everyone be prepared to deal with different kinds of threats like bombs, floods, storms, and other dangers. • They must help all members of the community be part of the emergency plan. • They must communicate clearly with everyone in the community.
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WHOLE COMMUNITY
3. Emergency managers and responders must find ideas that work well in communities and use them. • They must find ways to support the businesses and programs that already work well in communities. • They must work with people and programs already known in the community before an emergency happens. Deaf People Can Be Active in the Whole Community A well-known Deaf Studies scholar, Harlan Lane (2010), noticed that Deaf people have not been active in political issues in society. He suggested that Deaf
a teaching method for one class (Cooper & Cripps, 2015). Service-learning means learning while doing; students volunteer for off-campus activities where they apply what they have learned in their classes. Service-learning requires thinking and writing about learning experiences, and giving service to the community (Jacoby, 1996). In Service-learning, everyone helps everyone else. The students, the Deaf community, and the community partners (emergency managers and responders) give to each other, and the professors (teachers) guide the students in their work with the community partners (Cripps & Cooper, 2012).
When both Deaf and hearing people use signed language, communication problems can disappear. people should become more active. There is a benefit to the whole community when members of the Deaf community participate in emergency training and serve on emergency teams. Cripps, Cooper, and Austin (in press) responded to Lane’s request for action with a model for emergency training that shows how Deaf people can be involved in making important changes in society. Deaf people can lead the movement for using signed language in emergency situations. Then other groups in the Deaf community (e.g., hearing children of deaf adults, signers who work with Deaf people, second language learners) can help spread awareness too. If a medical or emergency situation occurs and speech cannot be used, ASL can be used instead. When both Deaf and hearing people use signed language, communication problems can disappear. Creation of the “Emergency Preparedness with People who Sign” (EPPS) Model This idea was developed at Towson University in Maryland by professors in the Deaf Studies program. The Deaf Studies program uses Service-learning as
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In the Service-learning class, Deaf Studies students worked with agencies in the community, giving “Deaf Awareness” presentations to people in the community. Some students met with a local fire department. This training was so successful that other fire departments began to ask for similar training. Service-learning appears to fit well with the whole community idea. The first successful training from Towson University led to more training. Emergency managers and responders are required to take short courses to improve their skills and knowledge. The “Deaf Awareness” trainings were included as part of their required training. The EPPS model was designed to fit into on-the-job training times. The EPPS model developed by Cripps et al. (in press) suggests training emergency responders on these topics: 1. General information about Deaf people and ASL; 2. Problems or challenges faced by Deaf people in emergency situations;
WHOLE COMMUNITY
• Include ASL in emergency care courses for emergency managers and responders and medical professionals. • Provide an emergency videophone hotline (e.g., 9-1-1) for Deaf people to call to receive information through ASL. • Include Deaf people from the community as participants in emergency practice situations as patients and helpers. Towson University Deaf Studies students participate in emergency preparedness training by Lutherville Volunteer Fire Company in Maryland.
3. Misunderstandings about Deaf people and communication; 4. Problems with emergency services for Deaf people: • Printed materials for emergency services are written in English, a second language for Deaf people. • Lipreading does not allow good interaction between emergency responders and Deaf individuals. • Sign language interpreting through computer screens removes the human connection between a Deaf person and an emergency responder or health care provider. • Poor camera angles on interpreters and unqualified interpreters on television do not allow Deaf people access to the complete message. 5. Learning ASL signs related to emergency situations; 6. Hands-on experience in practice crisis situations with Deaf people; 7. Additional suggestions for emergency responders: • Study basic medical sign language. (http://www.cdss.ca.gov/cdssweb/entres/forms/ english/pub391.pdf). • Take ASL classes at colleges, universities, or agencies working with Deaf people. • Find two or three professionals who know ASL and are aware of Deaf people, and make sure they are where emergency medical services are available. • Know when and how to use ASL-English interpreters.
Future Directions for The Whole Community Approach The EPPS Model is a way for Deaf people and emergency managers and responders to come together as part of the whole community. Everyone benefits when Deaf people teach emergency manager and responders some ASL signs and skills for working with the Deaf community and the EPPS Model allows Deaf people to be an active and important part of training emergency responders about their needs. Emergency managers and responders have the opportunity to learn important information about Deaf people from Deaf people and students and encourages relationships between local emergency responders and their local Deaf communities. The EPPS Model gives Deaf people opportunities to be leaders by sharing information and skills with their local communities, or state and Federal governments and encourages emergency managers and responders to learn ASL. When more people know ASL, everyone benefits (Supalla, Small & Cripps, 2013). The EPPS Model helps everyone make emergency situations safe for Deaf people. Suggestions for the future include involving Deaf people in all aspects of training health professionals (e.g., doctors, nurses, etc.), public service providers (e.g., law enforcement personnel, judicial personnel, etc.) and other professionals about ASL and Deaf culture. The goal is to improve the safety and health of Deaf people, an important and contributing group in our society.
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REFERENCES Cooper, S. B., & Cripps, J. H. (2015). Service-learning: Deaf Studies in the community. In O. Delano-Oriaran, M. W. Penick-Parks, & S. Fondrie (Eds.), Service-learning and civic engagement (pp. 287-294). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE. Cripps, J. H., & Cooper, S. B. (2012). Service-learning in Deaf Studies: Integrating academia and deaf community. Journal of American Deafness and Rehabilitation Association, 46(1), 354368.
Jody H. Cripps, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor in the Deaf Studies program at Towson University near Baltimore, Maryland.
Sheryl B. Cooper, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor in the Deaf Studies program at Towson University.
Cripps, J. H., Cooper, S. B., & Austin, E. N. (in press). Emergency preparedness with people who sign: Toward the whole community approach. Journal of Emergency Management. Federal Emergency Management Agency. (2011). A whole community approach to emergency management: Principles, themes, and pathways for action. Retrieved from http://www. fema.gov/media-library-data/20130726-1813-25045-0649/ whole_community_dec2011__2_.pdf
Elizabeth “Nikki” Austin, Ph.D. and RN is an Associate Professor in the Department of Nursing at Towson University.
Federal Emergency Management Agency. (2015). Whole community. Retrieved from http://www.fema.gov/wholecommunity. Jacoby, B. (1996). Service-learning in today’s higher education. In B. Jacoby & Associates (Eds.), Civic engagement in higher education: Concepts and practices (pp. 3-25). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass. Lane, H. (2010). Construction of deafness. In L. J. Davis (Ed.), The disability reader, 3rd edition (pp. 153-171). New York, NY: Routledge. Supalla S. J., Small A., Cripps J. S. (2013). American Sign Language for everyone: Considerations for universal design and deaf youth identity. Monograph Series 2. Toronto, ON: Canadian Cultural Society of the Deaf & Knowledge Network for Applied Education Research.
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DONOR LIST The list below recognizes donations made by individuals and organizations to the NAD from October 1, 2015 - January 31, 2016. Donors are listed under the designated fund. If a fund is not designated, donors are listed under the general fund. Individual donors are recognized by their level of giving. Organizational donors are recognized by their member type. Individuals and organizations who are not members are listed as friends of the NAD. There is a Donor Key on the right for individual giving levels and organization member status. Roman numerals following Benefactors (B) identify cumulative donation amounts in $1,000 increments.
Annual Fund Campaign – General Anonymous, FON Thomas and Dianne Armato, BI Frank Bechter, P Suzann Bedrosian, P Ursula Bellugi, BI Alyson Boote, A Bryan Branson, S Cindi Brown, P Patricia Bruce, P Jim and Stephanie Buell, P Frank Burckardt, FON Govind Chadalawada, A Hobert and Connie Clanton, BII William and Michelle Cline, BI Elizabeth Iris Coffey, FON Sherri Collins, BIII Jodee Crace, A Melvin Creamer, P James Crites, BIII Cynthia Current, FON Randi Decker, A Zachary DeLaRosa, FON Carel Dunaway, BIV John Ennis, P Elizabeth Fazzolari, C Emily Ferren, S Stephanie Feyne, S Robert Foster, A David and Audrey Frank, BI Lynn Gerlach, BII John Paul Godich, FON 48
Sienna Gough, C Roberta Greene, P Jennifer Greenfield, BI Derald and Alice Guilbert, BIV Denise Hanlon, BII Peter Hayes, BVII Douglas Horner, A Marlene Hostovsky, A Jeffrey Howard, C Leyel Hudson, A Leonard and Wanda Hull, BII Margaret James, BI Katherine Jankowski and Karen Goss, BIV Vilas Johnson, Jr., BIX Sara Johnston, S Jazmine Jones, C Kathy Kady-Hopkins, BI Nathan Katz, BIII Peter and Nancy Kensicki, BII Leo Kerfoot, A John Kirsh, P Christal Klinger, A Richard and Harriet Koch, BII Donald Kovacic, S Sharon Kozey, FON Aaron Kreinbrook, FON Michelle Kriebel, A Mary Lynn Lally, C Alicia Lane-Outlaw, P David Leitson, S Jacqueline Lightfoot, P Michael and Emily Litman, A Matthew Lockhart and Julie Bourne, BV Colleen Maier, FON
DONOR KEY B = Benefactor ($1,000 and up) P = Patron ($500-$999) S = Sustaining Member ($250-$499) C = Contributing Member ($100-$249) A = Advancing Member (up to $99) SA = State Association Affiliate FON = Friends of the NAD OA = Organizational Affiliate
Iris Mars, BI Hilary Mayhew, S Frances McCarthy, BI Teresa Melder, A Ken Mikos, BVI Lucy Miller, BXV Marvin Miller, P Robin Mills, S Betty Moers, BIII Lori Moers, A Philippe and Yvonne Montalette, BIX Ruth Moore, BI Denis and Angela Munn, C Julie Nagle, A Ronald and Melvia Nomeland, BVI Rita Owens, A Joseph Panko, C Marti Papke, C Larry Puthoff, BII Cheryl Quintal, C Scott Ratafia, FON Annette Reichman, BII Allan and Judith Rosenblum, BII Howard Rosenblum, BXI Jacqueline Roth, P Lisa Roth, A Evelyn Schafer, A Davin Searls, P Sejal Shah, FON Kellie Shanahorn, P Nikkina Shivann Webster, FON Nancy Jean Shugart, P Bobbe Skiles, P
Steven Smart, C Pamela Smith, A Amanda Stein, A Renee Stewart, FON Bill and Alyce Stifter, BVIII Rachel Stone, BII Kevin Struxness, BI Ronald and Agnes Sutcliffe, BXI Alice Sykora, BI Diana Thorpe, P Michael Trabert, A Rose Trabert, A Edward and Betty Van Tighem, BXIV Daniel Veltri, A Kathryn Voss, BI Clifford Watts II, C Ashley Wehrwein, FON J. Sterling and Lucie White, BXXXI Wendy Wiatrowski, P Bri Wilson, A Tiffany Wilson, A Rosalee Wolfe, BII Jason Zinza, S American Charities, FON Arizona Association of the Deaf, SA AT&T United Way, OA BGE, LTD, FON Bradford Group, FON CBS Corporation, FON Comcast Corporation, OA Communique Interpreting, FON
DONOR LIST
Community Foundation of Greater Memphis, FON CSDVRS, LLC, OA DC Soccer, LLC, FON Eisenberg & Baum, LLP, FON Gallaudet University, OA Gary S & Margaret D Anderson Family Foundation, FON Goodshop, FON Google, OA Illinois Association of the Deaf, SA International Business Machines Corporation, FON JP Morgan Chase, FON Landis Group, FON Lyft, Inc, FON National Football League Foundation, FON National Technical Institute for the Deaf, OA Special Needs Law Group of Massachusetts, FON Sprint Nextel, OA Uber, FON University of Rochester, FON Verizon Communications, OA VTC Secure LLC, BVII Your Cause, FON Nancy J. Bloch Leadership & Advocacy Scholarship Gerard and Judith Buckley, BIX Anita Farb, BX Henry and Sandra Lee Klopping, BIV Joan Kozicki, BI Brendan Murphy, A Frank R. Turk Youth Leadership Scholarship Celia May Baldwin, C Philip and Judith Bravin, BXV Donald Galloway, P John Groth, BIV Robert and Evie Harris, BXV John Miller and Ausma Smits, BV Marilyn Mitchell, BI
Al Noll, BI David and Alyce Reynolds, BXVIII Frank and Marlene Turk, BX Annual Fund Campaign – International Donalda Ammons, BIII Annual Fund Campaign – Law and Advocacy Donalda Ammons, BIII Helen Badoyannis, C Jamie Berke, P Barbara Bernstein, BI Deanna Boenau, P A. Anne Bowers, Jr., BI Bernard Bragg, BIX Philip and Judith Bravin, BXV Gerard and Judith Buckley, BIX Jesus Candelaria, A Harvey and Mary Ann Corson, BXX Robert and Donna Davila, BVI Nicole Gillies, A Harvey and Astrid Goodstein, BXXIV Star Grieser, S John Groth, BIV Mike Gugerty, A Judy Harkins, BI Liz Hill, A Nancy Horowitz, BVI Barbara Kautz, FON Caroline Koo, C Sidney Kraizman, P Linda Lamitola, BI Jon Mitchiner, BI Larry and Alice Obray, BII Mark Paramo, A Brian Perry, BII Timothy Riker, A Lore L. Rosenthal, P Kelly Stack, A D. Wayne Walters, BII Barbara White, BI Sara Winchester, BI
Annual Fund Campaign – Youth Leadership Carol Cragin, FON T. Alan and Vicki Hurwitz, BXXI Lorna Irwin, BIII Joan Kemp, BV Marilyn Mitchell, BI Caroline Partin, P Brian Perry, BII Jessica Pike, FON Debby Sampson, P Matt Schmid, FON Frank and Marlene Turk, BX 2015 Jr. NAD Conference Christie Abrams Nancy Hlibok Amann Beth Benedict David Bird Chris Bradley Bradley Brown Erin Land Brown Jennifer Campero Everett Carpenter Robert Chain, Jr. Linsay Darnall, Jr. Jeannette Dreher Walker Estes Michelle Florio Adam Garfinkel Karla Gunn Victoria Hardy Calvin Holst Erica Hossler Melissa Yingst Huber Sheila Korolev Cinnie MacDougall Sean Maloney Kathy Miller Jeanine Pollard Jennifer Reynolds Rosa Rodriguez Danielle Silk Doreen Simons Kim Symansky Alla Tarasyuk Lisa Wasilowski Robert Weiniger Lissette Molina-Wood Amtrak CIA
Florida Association of the Deaf Florida School for the Deaf and Blind Gallaudet University Purple Communications RIT/NTID Route 66 Promotions Sorenson Communications Tracfone ZVRS In Honor… Donalda Ammon’s parents Donalda Ammon, BIII Joshua Beckman American Sign Language Teachers Association, OA Kimberlee Bachman David LoVerne, FON Jenny Buechner Suzy Long, S Govind Chadalawada Sri Kolli, A Michael Cohen’s Birthday Julie Grenet, FON Max Cragin Carol Cragin, FON Deaf Prisoners Kathy Gray-Plotkin, S Linda Drattell Eric Drattell, BI Education Advocacy Stephen Hlibok, BIII Caroline Koo, C John Fink Deborah Fink, A Kimberly Gurtler Denise DeVinny, FON Tawny Holmes Caroline Partin, P
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DONOR LIST
Caroline Jackson Isaiah and Helen Jackson, FON Alexis Kashar The Landis Group, FON Alicia Lane-Outlaw Cynthia Weitzel, P Margot Larue Nicola Koontz, FON Taco Lockhart Glenn Lockhart, BI John and Mary Lucey Marilyn Lucey, FON Gerry and Daria Medwid Jacqui and Tod Gross, FON Ms. Mosley Zachary Cuthbertson, FON Jerry Nelson Arkansas Association of the Deaf, SA Jeff Okun Bri Wilson, A J. Scott Perry Brian Perry, BII David Reynolds Utah Association of the Deaf, SA
Howard Chabner, FON Douglas Goldhamer, FON
Arthur P. Gendreau Cynthia Weitzel, P
Joan Stewart, A Elizabeth Villalta, FON
Keith and Cindy Simmerman’s Wedding Kathie Gray-Plotkin, S
Richard Gratzke JoAnn Fitch, FON Public Works, FON
Alysse Rasmussen Glenna Ashton, BVI
Genevieve Sorensen 100th Birthday Stephanie Schempp, A
Alfred and Betty Hoffmeister Robert Hoffmeister, P
Delight Rice Ronald and Catherine Hirano, BXI
Darwin Holmes Caroline Partin, P
Roger Scott Pamela Docchio, A
George Wm. Johnston Rosemarie Johnston, BI
Robert Smith Courtney Magiera, FON
Lawrence and Thelma Leitson Mark Leitson, FON
Hank Stack Kelly Stack, A
Chris Wagner Gerard and Judith Buckley, BIX Southeast Regional Institute on Deafness, FON David Woodruff Joan Tunick, FON In Memory… Michael Berger Kathie Gray-Plotkin, S Joan Berke Robert and June McMahon, BII Alicia Clemsic Jessica Pike, FON Eva Dinnitto Alan Rogol, FON Lou Fant Barbara Bernstein, BI
Howard Rosenblum Peggy Begley, FON Gertrude Galloway Steve and Dorothy Brenner, BX Steve Baldwin, S Patricia Wilson, BI
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Beth Lucey Marilyn Lucey, FON Lawrence Newman Warner Newman, FON Audree B. Norton Frank and Marlene Turk, BX Robert and Diana Zunino, BI Timothy Owens Aline Shaw, C Esther Fink Persky Deborah Fink, A Robert L. Phillips Robert and Leanne Crompton, FON Betty Erickson, FON Thomas and Clara Hardy, FON Dale Rogers, FON
Roy and Ellen P. Stewart C. Ann Tennis, BVI William T. Sugiyama Peggy Sugiyama, BIII Frank B. Sullivan Robert and Donna Davila, BVI Allen Sussman Jerry Nelson and Nancy Bloch, BLI Esther Swartz Nancy Horowitz, BVI Bonnie Willis Jill Andersen, FON Barbara Kautz, FON
IN MEMORIAM Timothy Owens, Sustaining Helen Pendergraft, Patron Clarice Petrick, Benefactor I Robert L. Phillips, P Robert Alan Porreca, Contributing Bert Poss, Patron Linda Raymond, Benefactor I Noel Rivera, Contributing Roger Scott, Benefactor IV Michael Slater Jr., Benefactor VII Marie Smith, Benefactor II Allen Sussman, Benefactor IX Edward Tucker Jr., Patron Ernest Whisenant, Benefactor II Anna Yates, Benefactor II
Harold Barish, Advancing Joan Berke, P Holly Bernstein, Benefactor III Marilouise Burgess, Benefactor I Edward Cornett, Advancing Kathy R. Dunaway, BX Sandra Fontana, Benefactor I Edith Furlong, Benefactor I Bernice Hoeper, Patron Deborah L. Jacobs, S Peggy Keough, Contributing Robert Lange, Benefactor II Alvin Leff, Advancing Lawrence Leitson, Benefactor II Angela Minckler, Sustaining Audree Norton, Benefactor V
FORMER NAD EMPLOYEES
Edith “Louise” Furlong
Robert Alan Porreca
Edith “Louise” Furlong passed away October 13, 2015 in Virginia. Louise came to the NAD in 1978 as our Membership Secretary. She was a kind, gentle woman, dedicated to her job, always willing to assist others and always had a smile on her face. She coordinated the membership department until her retirement in July of 1985. Robert Alan Porreca passed away Tuesday, February 9, 2016 in Florida. Alan graduated from the Maryland School for the Deaf /Frederick campus in 1968. He started working in the NAD mailroom in 1970 under the leadership of Frederick C. Schreiber. Alan supervised all mailroom duties including the processing of bookstore orders until his retirement in June of 2003. He made many friends during his 33 years at the NAD
Deborah Jacobs
—always welcoming visitors and friends with a hearty “hello” and a big hug. Deborah Jacobs passed away February 22, 2016 in Maryland. Before coming to the NAD, Deborah interpreted with Montgomery County Public Schools. Deborah became our receptionist in May of 1993. She handled all public information requests, the Stokoe Scholarship, assisted in each and every department. She wore many hats at the NAD, but was mostly known for taking care of the NAD staff. She was a ‘mother’ figure to us all and made working at the NAD a joy. Deborah retired in May of 2007. They will truly be missed by many.
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8630 Fenton Street, Ste. 820 Silver Spring, MD 20910
Jr. NAD Winter Retreat participants have a laugh after wrapping up an activity in Winter Park, Colorado in February, 2016.
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