Utah Involvement in Gallaudet University History. Compiled & Written by Jodi B. Kinner Edited by Valerie G. Kinney

Transcription

1 Utah Involvement in Gallaudet University History Compiled & Written by Jodi B. Kinner Edited by Valerie G. Kinney 2015

2 Today, Gallaudet University is the world s only liberal arts college for deaf and hard of hearing students. This university was originally known as the National Deaf-Mute College and it was founded in 1864 in Washington, D.C. In 1894, this college was renamed to Gallaudet College in honor of Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, a pioneer in education of the deaf. In 1986, Gallaudet College was changed to Gallaudet University when President Ronald Reagan signed the Education of the Deaf (Public Law ). The early founding of the Utah School for the Deaf, the staff members and students created a close connection with Gallaudet University. The frequent mention of Gallaudet College was found in the issues of Utah Eagle magazine, Eaglet papers and UAD Bulletin. Establishment of the National Deaf-Mute College Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet was first to work for education of the deaf pupils in the United States. With the help of Laurent Clerc, a brilliant deaf man from Paris, France, Gallaudet founded the first school for the Deaf in Hartford, Connecticut. Gallaudet was a friend, teacher, and benefactor of the Deaf community (Burdett, The Utah Eagle, December 1954). Gallaudet s son, Edward Miner Gallaudet was also involved in the education of Columbia Institution for the Deaf, circa 1893, shortly before the collegiate department became named after T.H. Gallaudet. Source: Wikipedia 1 the deaf. He became the first superintendent of the Columbia Institute for the Instruction of the Deaf, founded by Amos Kendall in Kendall and Gallaudet had the vision of establishing a college for the deaf. They

3 were determined to make such a dream come true. However, their proposal to Congress for permitting the school to award college degrees was not easy. At the time, the Congress faced large and pressing problems each day, but some of the members of Congress could see the wisdom of younger Gallaudet s proposal. Finally, the Congress enacted the Act and President Abraham Lincoln signed its charter on April 8, 1864 (Elstad, The Utah Eagle, December 1954). The institution soon was renamed the Columbia Institution for the Deaf and Dumb where the collegiate division was created and named the National Deaf-Mute College (Elstad, The Utah Eagle, December 1954). The National Deaf-Mute College, as the only liberal arts university for the deaf in the world, was designed for those deaf and hard of hearing students who were unable to make satisfactory progress in other colleges or universities The purpose of the National Deaf-Mute College was to provide the liberal arts for students and to prepare them to become independent, productive citizens to enter the professional or vocational fields after graduation (Elstad, The Utah Eagle, December 1954). The Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees were offered during the junior and senior years, specializing in the work offered by one of the following departments: Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, History and Political Science, Economics and Sociology, English, Art, Education, Home Economics, and Library Science (Elstad, The Utah Eagle, December 1954). 2

4 During the first three years of college, the students were required to take English composition. They also had to take communication courses to develop their speech, speechreading, and hearing to the maximum, as well as other means of communications of value to the Deaf. In 1891, the National Deaf-Mute College established a teacher-training program, which admitted only hearing students. Ironically, deaf people who wanted to teach were not permitted in the graduate program with an emphasis in Deaf Education. Many hearing graduates taught in and administered state schools for the deaf. By the 21 st century, the School of Education admitted both deaf and hearing students (US History Encyclopedia: Gallaudet University). USD First Pupils to Attend the National Deaf-Mute College On June 8, 1897, Elizabeth DeLong, known as Libbie, and John H. Clark were the only two students (they were cousins) from Utah School for the Deaf to graduate (The Ogden Standard-Examiner, May 8, 1897). They were the first students from Utah to enter Gallaudet College that fall. Elizabeth DeLong. In courtesy of the DeLong Family Saga. On September 15, 1897, Frank M. Driggs, superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf and the Blind, accompanied them by train to their first year at Gallaudet of a four-year course of study. He was taking a one-year teacher's course at the same time (The Ogden Standard-Examiner, September 15, 1897). Libbie and John H. probably would not have had the opportunity to go so far away if Driggs hadn't been there as well. 3

5 The U.S. Government paid for Libbie s schooling (Banks). While at Gallaudet, she was active in drama. During her senior year, Libbie was elected associate editor of the college publication called The Buff and Blue, and John H. (also a senior) was elected editor-in-chief (The Ogden Standard-Examiner, June 19, 1901; Dr. Thomas C. Clark, personal communication, November 13, 2008). While at Gallaudet, John H. was a good student who was active in all sports and was a spiffy dresser. He was an assistant manager of the Gallaudet football team (The Silent Worker, December 1900). During his senior year, he was elected editor-in-chief of the college publication, The Buff and Blue, and also wrote stories for it. Libbie, also a senior was elected an associate editor (The Ogden Standard-Examiner, June 19, 1901; Dr. Thomas C. Clark, personal communication, November 13, 2008). According to the Ogden Standard-Examiner article (1901), To be elected editor-in-chief of the college paper has always been considered one of the highest honors, and it is of special note that Utah students obtain two of the positions (1.) John H. Clark at Gallaudet Campus In 1902, Libbie was the first female Utah college graduate with a bachelor s degree and the first in her family to have a full college education. She left Washington, D.C. and returned to Ogden, where she began to teach at the Utah School for the Deaf on September 3, She continued that position for fifteen years (Banks). She is believed to be the first deaf teacher with a degree to teach at that school. Shortly after Libbie and John H. entered Gallaudet College, Lillian Swift of Salt Lake City and Elmo V. Kemp of Safford, Arizona enrolled at that college. Later more Utah School for the Deaf alumni attended Gallaudet College to advance their education and become productive citizens in Utah (The Utah Eagle, June 1906). 4

6 The highest number of Utahns at Gallaudet College was eleven in the fall of 1936 and has never been surpassed since. Other prominent Gallaudet graduates of Utah were Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, Kenneth C. Burdett, Ned C. Wheeler, Joseph Burnett, and Rodney W. Walker (Walker, 2006). Did You Know? Front Row (L-R): Verl Thorup, Joseph Burnett, Dolores Atkinson, Rodney Walker and Earl Jones. Back Row (L-R): John Glassett, Ned Wheeler, Earl Rogerson, Bob Sanderson, Robert Lewis and Kyle Workman. In 1887, women gained admittance to the National Deaf-Mute College (US History Encyclopedia: Gallaudet University). Gallaudet College Admission From time to time, many parents of deaf students of Utah School for the Deaf were anxious to have their children secure a college education at Gallaudet College. USD assured the parents that every student who can was encouraged to attend college. In 1946, more than 150 students throughout the country took the entrance examinations. Only 40 students qualified for admittance. In order to be admitted to the college, the students had to be familiar with mathematic concepts and English proficiency. Teachers of eleventh and twelfth grade classes at USD were able to identify whether a student would be able to hurdle the Gallaudet College entrance examinations. 5

7 After reviewing the examination papers, the final decision was made by the college authorities as to whether or not the student was admitted. Not every graduate of the school had the qualifications necessary to attend college. Most of the students secured vocational training that enabled them to make a living and to live happily (Louriteen, The Utah Eagle, February 1947). Gallaudet Banquet For the first time in 1944, Gallaudet Banquet was formed to bring Gallaudet graduates of Utah together. On December 5, 1946, approximately twenty Gallaudetians, and their spouses attended the Third Annual Gallaudet Banquet at Hotel Newhouse in Salt Lake City. Boyd E. Nelson, superintendent of the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, was a guest at the banquet and gave a talk, on Bushnell and its Relation to Our School. After the conclusion of Superintendent Nelson s talk, Gallaudetians were caught off guard by the proposal to cancel the Gallaudet banquet at a short business meeting. They thought the discussion was dead and buried. Before they had time to organize their thoughts, the proposal was voted upon and passed. Kenneth C. Burdett, 1934 Gallaudet College Senior Kenneth C. Burdett, Gallaudet 34 expressed his disappointment about the Gallaudet banquet being cancelled. He stated that, It was a sad thought, and Gallaudetians wondered why some people can t be satisfied with a simple gathering without making it the object of speculation; without twisting and turning the poor simple 6

8 idea of the first banquet until it had lost its original shape and purpose (Burdett, The Utah Eagle, January 1947). Personally, Kenneth Burdett along with other Gallaudetians, attached a great deal of sentiment of Gallaudet College and always looked forward to the banquet to bring their fond memories back. They acknowledged that there were those who did not share their views and they were aware that those that did. The Utah Deaf community had a University Club. It no longer can be the Gallaudet banquet. Gallaudetians had seen the opposition s arguments and bowed to them in the interest of unity, but they would not yield those treasured memories nor that feeling of nostalgia for the happiest years of their life, said Kenneth C. Burdett (Burdett, The Rodney W. Walker, a Gallaudet class of Source: The Utah Eagle, April Utah Eagle, January 1947). In 1972, the Beehive (Utah) Chapter of the Gallaudet College Alumni Association (BCGUAA) was formed by members living in Utah, who had graduated or ever attended class in Gallaudet University. According to Rodney W. Walker, a Gallaudet class of 1939, the purpose of establishing the chapter was for the former students to recognize Gallaudet College as their alma master, and to see how they were doing in their lives, and to provide more fellowship with each other (Walker, 2006). 7 Peilkoff Alumni House

9 Gallaudet University Protest of 1988 From the time that Gallaudet University was established in 1864, there was never a deaf president. When the sixth president, Jerry Lee announced his resignation as president of the University on August 24, 1987, a new president was needed. Sixty-seven people had applied for this position; nine of the candidates were deaf. By February 1988, the Gallaudet s Board of Trustee had narrowed down to three candidates, one of whom was a hearing woman, Dr. Elisabeth A. Zinser. The two deaf candidates were Dr. Harvey J. Corson and Dr. I. K ing Jordan (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995). On March 1, 1988, the Deaf President Now committee held a rally on Gallaudet University football field. A group of young Gallaudet alumni came to encourage Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, a member of the Gallaudet University Board of Trustees Gallaudet alumni, students, faculty, and staff as well as urge the board of trustees to select a deaf person as the University's next president. More than 1,500 people attended the rally. Flyers were distributed at the rally, which attracted attention. The flyers noted that in 1942 a Roman Catholic became president of Notre Dame, that a woman became president of Wellesley College in 1875, that a Jewish person became president of Yeshiva University in 1886, that that a black person became president of Howard University in The flyers also noted that in 1988, the Gallaudet University presidency belongs to a DEAF person (Christiansen & 8

10 Barnett, 1995). During the rally, students came to realize the importance of having a deaf president (Gannon, 1987). Notably, the rally captured the national attention and an article on it was printed in the Washington Times and the Washington Post Metropolitan for public awareness of the presidential search process. Between March 2 and 5, 1988, Gallaudet University received tons of letters from legislators, alumni, individuals, and outside organizations. They pressured the board of trustees to select a deaf president. President Greg Hlibok of the Student Body Government sent a letter to Dr. Zinser asking her to consider resigning as a candidate for the presidency. She was warned that if she became president, the students would not support her in her new position (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995). On March 5, the board of trustees interviewed the final three candidates: Dr. Zinser, Dr. Carson, and Dr. Jordan, at the Mayflower Hotel. Students, faculty, staff and alumni expected them to select a deaf president because of the rally. However, at the meeting, the board of trustees voted ten to four for Dr. Zinser. Deaf people who were members of the board voted for Dr. Jordan. They couldn t believe their eyes that Dr. Zinser won the vote (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995). Dr. Robert G. Sanderson shakes hand with US President Bill Clinton at the Gallaudet graduation, Dr. Sanderson shakes hand with US President Bill Clinton at the 1994 Gallaudet University graduation. Nonetheless, Dr. Zinser, a vice chancellor for academic affairs of the University of North Carolina in Greensboro, was the Gallaudet Board of Trustees choice to lead the university. Her qualifications for the job was of high caliber, however she had no knowledge of deafness and possessed no sign language skills. Staff, faculty, students, and alumni of Gallaudet were stunned upon learning that a hearing person had been chosen to 9

11 be the next president over two deaf candidates (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995). At the hotel, the chairman of the board of trustees, Jane Bassett Spilman made the statement that Deaf people were not yet ready to function in the hearing world (Sacks, 1988). Her insult statement angered deaf people. They immediately demanded that a deaf president replace Dr. Zinser. The next day on March 7, a protest broke out. The students shut down the entire campus. They blocked campus entrances so that no one could enter the school. It was the beginning of the Revolution of the Deaf, and launched the historic Deaf President Now protest. Alumni, students, faculty, and the national Deaf community were united and fought together for one clear goal to finally have a deaf person run the world's only deaf university -- Gallaudet. The protest lasted a week until March 13 (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995). The protest sparked a nationwide outpouring of support from alumni and from the U.S. Congress, which provided 75% of the university s budget. Additionally, the Board of Trustees had been called back to tackle the problem of naming a new president. Dr. Robert Sanderson, Dr. Frank Sullivan and Phil Bravin, all deaf members of the Gallaudet s Board of Trustees, formally reaffirmed their support of a deaf president for Gallaudet University and opposed the choice of a hearing president (UAD Bulletin, April 1988). Under those circumstances, the students refused to reopen the school until the four demands presented to the board of trustees were met. The following demands were: Zinser s resignation and selection of deaf president, The chairperson of the board of trustee, Jane Bassett Spilman resign, Increase in deaf representation on the board to 51% and lastly, There be no reprisals against the protestors. However, the board turned down all four demands. Spilman believed that Dr. Zinser would be an excellent president if the students let her. More than 1,000 students 10

12 marched to the Capital led by four students leaders: Greg Hlibok, Jerry Covell, Tim Rarus, and Bridgetta Bourne (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995). Ultimately, alumni, students, faculty, and the national Deaf community were unwilling to give up the demands until they were met. Finally, on March 13, the board had a meeting at the Embassy Row Hotel. The people outside of the meeting waited tensely nine hours for the board announcement. By the time the meeting was over, Phil Bravin, a deaf member of the board of trustees and also a brother-in-law of Utah native, Ronald Burdett, called Greg Hlibok via TTY and said that all four demands were met and that Bravin was the new Chair of the Board after Jane Spilman s resignation. Dr. I. King Jordan, a faculty member of Gallaudet, became the first deaf president of the University. The board secured an increase of 51% in deaf representative on the board and there were no reprisals for the students or faculty protestors (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995). As can be seen, the movement had an impact. Alumni, students, faculty, and the national Deaf community collectively fought for their civil rights until they were heard. They had the support of the media, through newspapers, radio, and television. Additionally, they gained the support of the entire nation such as presidential candidates, labor unions and the national organization. They triumphed and proved that they did not have to let society take control of their lives. It was a huge victory (Christiansen & Barnett, 1995). A Principle of Fair Representation One year after the 1988 Gallaudet Protest, Mabel Bell, a pseudonym used by Ron Nelson, then board member of the Utah Association for the Deaf, wrote and published his insights regarding the principle of fair representation in the June 1989 issue of the UAD Bulletin. Basically, Ron explained that a general protest is an example of their day calling for fair representation. His article is rather long, but he raised a number of valid points for the Utah Deaf community to consider in order to enlighten our community and advocate for fair representative. 11

13 During the Deaf President Now protest at Gallaudet University, the students cried for fair representation. Noticeably, Rev. Jesse L. Jackson said, It was a victory for all people who have felt the pain of being unrepresented. After watching the Gallaudet protest through media, Ron observed that the lack of fair representation also applied in Utah and the situation was similar. By the same token, he stated in his article that every program set up by legislators or state agencies that affected the deaf community were administered and staffed entirely by hearing people. He said, They acted as if they are in a position of Godhood. They made and continued to make decisions and policies that have an impact on the deaf community and future members of the deaf community as if they know what was best. They did not see a need to ask the deaf community how their programs were doing, what their needs were and how these could be met. Some of them even showed Ron Nelson up once in a while at a deaf activity and expected deaf people to jump for joy at their presence because they were such good mothers. Truly, they destroyed more than they build competence, independence and pride as real mothers should (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2). Ron pointed out that a classic example of such people was the Gallaudet s Board of Trustees that selected Dr. Zinser to be the next president. A fitting description of such people, hearing mothers, was given by Dr. Harlan Lane, author of When The Mind Hears, in which he states in reference to the board of trustees, They want to be the benefactor. The whole attitude of benevolence was that I am better than you and I am helping you. That says, I don t need to learn your views, mine are better. Conversely, 12

14 Ron emphasized by saying, the deaf community needed programs that will help them develop their skills, talents and leadership so that they can take control of their own future well trained and highly educated. They will be able to guide the deaf community on a straight track that will benefit them in the long run. Sad to say, the present programs did not succeed in their purposes (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2). Ron learned that one of the moral questions asked during the week of Deaf President Now protest was, Deaf people need to take care of themselves. Why bother giving us higher education if we will never be allowed to use it? This sentiment was voiced by a Gallaudet faculty member, Truman Stelle, when he said, It is long past time that Gallaudet had a deaf president, as testimony that deaf people are capable of leading themselves (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2-3). Comparatively, Ron had a moral question for some of the agencies in Utah, including Vocational Rehabilitation and the State Board of Education, because they influenced the education of deaf students: Deaf people need to take care of themselves. The questions he asked were: Why aren t you training deaf students and those who want to continue schooling, so that they can take your places and take care of their own people? Why aren t you selecting qualified deaf people to be administrators in those programs directly affecting the deaf community? (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3). At that time, Utah had only one deaf person in a state-level position and this person was Dennis Platt, an active member of the deaf community and a member of the Institutional Council for the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind. Ron stated that Utah School for the Deaf had been around for over a hundred years, just like Gallaudet University. His questions brought up this question, How much longer will we bear the saddles of low-class slavery and permit hearing people to ride on our backs? Dr. Allen Sussman, a faculty member at Gallaudet states, The time has come for the plantation mentality, which has for so long controlled this institution and others serving the deaf, to end. Leonard F. Navrat agreed, The era of hearing people deciding which is best for deaf people has come to an end (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2-3). 13

15 Ron s opinion was shared that the Deaf President Now week at Gallaudet University was not the end. It was only a beginning, a very public and significant first step. He emphasized a point by saying, It is up to the Deaf community to press on and use current public awareness to advance their cases. Lou Ann Walker, in I Know How to Ask for What I Want, Parade Magazine April 23, 1989, quoted a deaf teacher s explanation as to why qualified deaf persons were not being put in advisory positions. Ron clearly said, Hearing people don t want to give up the power (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3). He believed the majority of hearing administrators will not voluntarily give up their power to make decisions that affect the deaf community of Utah. He advised that the sooner we realize this, the sooner we can begin acting with determination to control our futures with wisdom, instead of waiting and hoping hearing people will understand our needs (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3). Ultimately, Ron urged that it was time the deaf community be allowed to make decisions and to be involved in those matters that deeply affect their lives. It was time the deaf community s feedback was requested on matters which will affect their future and their future leaders. Dr. Harvey J. Corson, Superintendent of the Louisiana School for the Deaf said, I think it s time for a new perspective, one that only a deaf person can offer (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3). Ron questioned, How can hearing people continue like this, making decisions for the deaf community without fair representation and feedback and expect them to be happy with it? It was no wonder the deaf community is crying out, FAIR REPRESENATION! (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 2). Henceforth, Ron encouraged the local and state agencies to learn from the mistake of the Gallaudet s Board of Trustees and not repeat their mistake as stated by Congressman Barney (D-Mass), For the trustees to turn away from the entirely reasonable request of the students that a hearing-impaired individual be made president of that college is a very unfortunate expression of insensitivity. Ruth Ann Leach, a Nashville Banner columnist said, The problem there was the attitudes of hearing 14

16 people. A similar quote was echoed by Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, The problem is not that the students do not hear. The problem is that the hearing world does not listen (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3). In this case, Ron noticed that on a national level, the principle of fair representation for deaf people was beginning to be recognized and applied. A national committee, Commission on Education for the Deaf was established by U.S. Congress to look into the education of the deaf on a national level. This committee was comprised of a significant number of deaf members (UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3). He questioned, Can agencies on the local and state level follow their example and begin to give fair representation to the deaf community of Utah? The following small steps had been taken: The Sign Language Committee, set up by the Utah School for the Deaf to study methods of communication used in the total communication program, was comprised of a majority of deaf members. The Commission on Education for the Deaf Committee, set up by the Institutional Council to review and discuss implementation of recommendations proposed by the COED, had four deaf members out of the sixteen persons on the committee (UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3). Following were some of the many other positions affecting the Utah Deaf community in which Ron would like to see qualified deaf persons in the near future: Director of the Utah Community Center of the Deaf Director of DSDHI Coordinator of the deaf programs in education Vocational Rehabilitation counselors More deaf people on state committees for the people with disabilities Administrators in religion State Board of Education Superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf, additional staff members and teachers Director of a possible State Commission on Deafness (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 3). 15

17 After all, Ron emphasized the importance that deaf persons filling these positions must be qualified. He said, Deafness should not be the only criteria for the job, but if the deaf person applying was an active member of the deaf community, the deaf applicant had something that no hearing person will ever be able to develop an intimate understanding of deafness and its culture (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, 3.). To sum up, Ron encouraged the deaf community to take the first step and speak out. He said, Talk to other deaf people and share your feelings. Join the deaf political groups and DO SOMETHING! There were several groups around, such as the Utah Association for the Deaf, Utah Valley Chapter of the Deaf and sports clubs, such as Utah Athletic Club of the Deaf and Golden Spike Athletic Club of the Deaf, etc. It didn t matter where you start. The important thing was that you get started somewhere and speak out (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 4). Under those circumstances, Ron gave a last good point that hearing people were enjoying the fruits of fair representation. Let s give the deaf community the opportunity to enjoy the same fruits. It was time to let them take responsibility for their lives and education. The time was not soon, or next year, but now! (Bell, UAD Bulletin, 1989, p. 4). Lastly, Ron ended with a quote from Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, If your mind can conceive it and your heart can believe it, then you can achieve it (Bell, UAD Bulletin, June 1989, p. 4). Old Dormitory at Gallaudet Uncovers Surprises Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, a Gallaudet class of 1941 and a member of Gallaudet s Board of Trustee, wrote his article in the February 1992 issue of the UAD Bulletin about uncovering his engraved Sandie, 41 in his College Hall dormitory room at Gallaudet University. During the week of October 21-26, 1991, at the 50 th Reunion of the Class of 1941, Dr. Sanderson and a group of the Gallaudet s Board of Trustees toured the College 16

18 Hall. In the middle of touring, he suddenly left them in a second-floor dormitory room when he was a student and hurried over to a window ledge where he had etched in a windowpane. Dr. Sanderson discovered his engraved words, Sandie, 41 was still there. Dr. Sanderson said, The renovation of College Hall at Gallaudet University had revealed a number of secrets from the 114-year-old structure s past, pedestals, domed ceilings, stained glass windows, and some mementos from schoolboys who lived in the building decades ago (Sanderson, UAD Bulletin, February 1992, p. 1). Robert G. Sanderson, 1941 Gallaudet College Senior Later, John Dunn, Project Supervisor for the renovation, removed the pane of glass, framed it in original wood from College Hall, and presented it to Dr. Sanderson, who in turn, gave it to the Office of Alumni Relations to display in Ole Jim (Sanderson, UAD Bulletin, February 1992). Unity for Gallaudet of 2006 On May 1, 2006, Gallaudet University encountered another protest known as Unity for Gallaudet, soon after Celia May Baldwin, Utah School for the Deaf (USD) alumna, alumna of Gallaudet College Class of 1970, former USD teacher and interim chairperson of Gallaudet s Board of Trustees, announced the 9th president of Gallaudet University to be Dr. Jane Fernandes (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). Dr. Fernandes (deaf) was hired over two deaf presidential candidates: Dr. Stephen Weiner and Dr. Ronald Stern. 17

19 During Celia May Baldwin s announcement, Ryan Commerson, a Gallaudet graduate student and political activist (he was a plenary speaker at the 2009 Utah Association for the Deaf conference), spoke of his disapproval of the new selection of Dr. Fernandes, former provost, as the next president, and walked out of the auditorium where he was immediately removed by campus security (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). Under the influence of Ryan Commerson, the students also walked out of the auditorium with the objective of ousting Dr. Fernandes. During this protest that lasted a week and a half in May, Celia May Baldwin resigned from the Board of Trustees after receiving aggressive personal threats being made toward her by community members regarding the selection (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). After the graduation ceremony ended, the students were forced to go home for the summer. The protest died down. By the time, the students returned for the fall semester, they resumed the protest and it became intense. They took over campus buildings and shut down the campus for three days (Berke, 2014). The protest also led the formation of the Faculty, Students, Staff and Alumni Association (FSSA). FSSA represented each body, including minority organizations which were overlooked by President I. King Jordan and Provost Jane K. Fernandes (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). Similar to the Deaf President Now protest, the three demands of FSSA were: Celia May Baldwin, Interim Chairperson of Gallaudet s Board of Trustee Resignation of Dr. Jane Fernandes, Allow the presidential search process to re-open, There are be no reprisals for protestors (Marsh, UAD Bulletin, November 2006). 18

20 The FSSA believed Dr. Fernandes was not the right person for the presidential role since Gallaudet University was not performing academically well. During Dr. Fernandes tenure as provost, the quality of education and low graduation rate were a concern (Marsh, UAD Bulletin, November 2007; Berke, 2014). Additionally, the FSSA showed evidence of dissatisfaction with her administrative policies and management style. Through faculty poll, they said Dr. Ryan Commerson. Photo by D. Scott Clark. Fernandes was unacceptable and through vote by staff and faculty, they voted no confidence in her (Marsh, UAD Bulletin, November 2006). The FSSA objected that Dr. Fernandes was named provost without a formal search for a provost and the protesters felt the hiring process was flawed as well as unfair (Berke, 2014). Not only that, on September 20, 2007, the Gallaudet Student Congress passed a resolution stating that they did not recognize Dr. Jane K. Fernandes as the 9th president of Gallaudet University (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). As the protest went on, more issues began to surface. It came to realization that the protest became not just a protest against Dr. Fernandes, but a battle for the future of Gallaudet University. They questioned where this university should embrace the ASL/English Bilingual education (Berke, 2014). 19

21 Despite the protest, the Board of Trustees continued not listening to listen. October 13 marked a historic moment in Gallaudet history when more than 130 protesters were arrested for civil disobedience by the 6th Street gate, the date known as "Black Friday. The arrest was ordered by retiring Dr. I. King Jordan. One of the 1988 Deaf President Now leaders, Tim Rarus was one of the people arrested. Shortly before Tim was arrested, he shouted, I helped put you in office, now you re arresting me! (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). Trenton Marsh, a Utah resident, stated, It is strange that I. Duane Kinner s tent King Jordan would begin and end his time as president of Gallaudet with two protests. The Deaf President Now protest is widely celebrated all over the world as the moment that the deaf achieved social equality. The current protest is proof that social equality did not truly happen (Marsh, UAD Bulletin, November 2006, p. 6). Echoing the 1988 Deaf President Now, more than 4,000 people from around the country marched to the Capitol Hill on October 21, 2006 (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007; Berke, 2014). During the protest, the students initially set up a Tent City on Gallaudet campus (Berke, 2014). It eventually inspired the other states to host their Tent City rally to show support for the FSSA. As for Utah, Tent City was hosted in Salt Lake City and St. George in October Between people attended the rally at its peak in Salt Lake City. Throughout the day, approximately 60 or more people came to Tent City where the Henry C. White Educational Council sold hot dogs, chips and drinks to raise money for FSSA. Overall, the community of Salt Lake City donated $ to FSSA (Marsh, UAD Bulletin, November 2006). Rodney W. Walker, a member of Gallaudet College Class of 1939, was the oldest alumnus in attendance. In St. George, Ronald and Joyanne Burdett, both with the Gallaudet College Class of 1970, were the facilitators of 20

22 Tent City where 14 people joined. During the rally, Joyanne explained how Gallaudet as Rodney W. Walker, a member of Gallaudet College Class of 1939 the result of the Deaf President Now in 1988 has helped make a world of difference for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing everywhere in the world (Burdett, UAD Bulletin, November 2009). Ron then took up the floor and gave a brief history of the Deaf President Now and Unity for Gallaudet. Joyanne said, It was very touching as well as inspiring! (Burdett, UAD Bulletin, November 2009, p. 7). With advanced technology available, deaf people across the country were glued to their computer screens: reading blogs and watching vlogs concerning the protest events. With ongoing protest, the Gallaudet s board of trustees eventually recognized that Dr. Fernandes would be unable to lead Gallaudet University effectively without the support from the university community (Berke, 2014). On October 29, 2006, they terminated the appointment of Dr. Fernandes (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). The FSSA celebrated a victory after a long, exhausting protest. Without delay, Dr. Robert Davila (deaf), who had prior administration experience, was selected as the "interim" president of Gallaudet University in early December 2006 (he eventually became 9 th the ninth president of this university). Stephen Weiner was selected as the new provost. Under Dr. Davila and Dr. Weiner's leadership, they immediately Joyanne & Ronald Burdett, members of Gallaudet College Class of Source: The UAD Bulletin, Winter

23 corrected deficiencies and openly embraced bilingualism (Berke, 2014). In the wake of the Unity for Gallaudet protest, the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) put probationary status on Gallaudet University in June For this reason, this university was under pressure to improve academically and to meet MSCHE standards, which included admissions, leadership, integrity, and retention (Berke, 2014). On June 27, 2008, MSCHE reaffirmed Gallaudet's accreditation (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). On January 1, 2010, Dr. T. Alan Hurwitz became the 10 th president of Gallaudet University (Unity for Gallaudet, 2007). Tent City Rally in Salt Lake City, Utah October 14, 2006 All things considered, if it were not for the Unity for Gallaudet protest, what would have become of Gallaudet University? As shown above, the protest has helped improved to improve and set Gallaudet University on a much better path. Dr. Hurwitz, dean of the National Technical Institute for the Deaf at Rochester Institute of Technology said, People look up to Gallaudet University because it s a pillar of the deaf community. He also added that he thought the controversy had more to do with the selection process than a split over deaf culture (Durr, 2011). Overall, Gallaudet University is considered a beacon to the national Deaf community, including the Utah Deaf community. The Deaf President Now and Unity for 22

24 Gallaudet protests have made enormous impact on the Deaf community. These historical events will be forever remembered for a good cause. 23

25 Note Dr. Thomas C. Clark, personal communication, November 13, Bibliography Banks, Gladys W. The DeLong Family Saga. Bell, Mabel. The Deaf Eye. The UAD Bulletin, vol. 12, no. 14 (June 1989): 2-4. Berke, Jamie. Gallaudet University - Unity for Gallaudet. (June 3, 2014): Burdett, Joyanne. Southern News. UAD Bulletin, vol (November 2006): 6-7. Burdett, Kenneth, C. The Utah Eagle, vol. 58, no. 4 (January 1947): 9. Christainsen, J.B., & Barnett, S.M. Deaf president now! The 1988 Revolution at Gallaudet University. Washington, D.C.: Gallaudet University Press DeLong and Clark with Driggs to Gallaudet. The Ogden Standard, September 15, DeLong and Clark on Gallaudet Buff and Blue. Ogden Standard, p. 1-4, June 19, Durr, Patti. Chart Comparing DNP and UFG. (November 3, 2011). Elstad, Leonard, M. Streamlined Education for the Deaf. The Utah Eagle (December 1954): Gallaudet College. The Silent Worker, vol.13, no. 4 (December 1900):

26 Gannon, Jack, R. The Week of the world heard Gallaudet. Washington, D.C.: Gallaudet University Press History of the Deaf. The Utah Eagle, vol. XVI, no. 9 (June 6, 1906): 139. Louriteen, Wesley. Gallaudet College. Utah Eagle. (February 1947): 6. Marsh, Trenton. Tent City Rally. UAD Bulletin, vol (November 2006): 6. Old Dormitory at Gallaudet Uncovers Surprises. UAD Bulletin, v. 15, no. 9 (February 1992): 1. Sacks, Oliver. The Revolution of the Deaf. The New York Review of Books. June 2, Selection of New President Sets Off Nationwide Protest. UAD Bulletin, vol, 11, no. 11 (April 1988): 2. Unity for Gallaudet, US History Encyclopedia: Gallaudet University. USDB. Ogden Standard, (May 8, 1897: 5. Walker, Rodney, W. My Life Story,