Lauren Ridloff to receive honorary degree and speak at commencement

Lauren Ridloff will receive a degree of honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, at the Gallaudet University commencement on May 13, in recognition of her significant contributions to elevating public awareness of deaf culture and languages. Two other recipients will be recognized along with Ms. Ridloff: Ms. Dorothy Sueoka Casterline, ‘58 and Mr. Carl Gustaf Croneberg, ‘55.

Ms. Ridloff, a Model Secondary School for the Deaf graduate, is an actress bringing authentic deaf representation to the public. She was most recently cast in the movie Eternals as Makkari, the first deaf superhero in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She currently acts in the TV show The Walking Dead as Connie, a recurring role since 2018. Her exemplary work has been recognized with many nominations and awards, including a Tony Award nomination for best actress in a play (2018). 

Ms. Ridloff will also be the honorary degree speaker.

Commencement 2022