Directories

Academics
Areas of Study

DEAF PRESIDENT NOW

A Movement That Changed History

Film & Media Coverage
Learn more

In March 1988, the Deaf President Now (DPN) movement transformed Gallaudet University—and the world.

For the first time in history, the global Deaf community rallied together in a powerful demand for representation, equity, and self-determination. The student-led protest at Gallaudet University led to the appointment of the university’s first Deaf president, Dr. I. King Jordan, marking a turning point in the fight for Deaf rights.

This page provides historical insights, multimedia resources, and academic opportunities for those who wish to explore DPN’s legacy—and Gallaudet’s role as the world’s leader in the advancement of deaf people.

A group of people standing on a balcony of a government building, holding colorful flags and a large banner that reads "DEAF PRESIDENT NOW." The dome of the building is visible in the background against a clear blue sky.
A black and white photograph depicting a group of people engaged in a discussion outdoors. In the foreground, two individuals are facing each other, one gesturing with their hands while speaking. The other individual appears attentive. Several people are gathered in the background, some looking on with interest, in a setting that includes buildings and trees.
A group of people gathered in a protest, with some individuals standing on a structure. They hold signs and banners, while others are positioned in front, facing the camera. The scene is captured in black and white, with trees bare of leaves in the background and a building visible behind the crowd. A police officer is seen in the foreground, observing the demonstration.
A crowd of people is gathered, raising their hands in a show of support or protest. In the foreground, a woman holds a sign and appears to be passionately engaged in the moment. A fluffy white dog is also present, nestled under her arm. The backdrop includes a poster with a message related to Dr. Zinsser. The scene captures a sense of energy and solidarity among the participants.
A black and white image of a large crowd participating in a march on a city street, with trees lining the road. Some individuals are holding signs, and a car is parked nearby. The atmosphere appears to be energetic and engaged, with many people visible in the scene.
A group of four young people standing closely together, smiling and posing for the camera, with various clothing styles. They are in a black and white setting, and there are signs and buildings in the background.
Black and white photo of a large crowd gathered for a demonstration, holding a banner that reads "WE STILL HAVE A DREAM." In the foreground, a person stands with their back to the camera, facing the crowd. Several buildings are visible in the background.

What was Deaf President Now?

The DPN movement was a pivotal moment in Deaf civil rights history. Gallaudet students, faculty, staff, and allies united in an unprecedented protest, demanding a Deaf leader for the world’s only university dedicated to Deaf and hard of hearing students. Their success sent a powerful message: the Deaf community could and should lead.

Background
The Week of DPN
Global Impact

Meet the Four Student Leaders of DPN

The Deaf President Now movement was led by passionate student activists at Gallaudet. Four students, known as the DPN4, became the face of the fight for a Deaf university president. Their leadership, determination, and courage inspired generations of Deaf and hard of hearing individuals worldwide.

A group of four individuals standing closely together, wearing casual clothing and displaying various buttons on their jackets, captured in black and white.
A middle-aged man with short, graying hair and a slight smile, wearing a black blazer over a white shirt, is positioned against a neutral gray background.

Tim Rarus, '89

Tim’s passion for Deaf leadership and civil rights helped drive the movement forward. His work continues today, focusing on policy change and Deaf advocacy at the national level.

A woman with long, straight blonde hair smiles at the camera. She is wearing a black top and a necklace with blue stones. The background is a neutral gray.

Bridgetta Bourne-Firl, '89 & G-'92

Bridgetta was instrumental in mobilizing students, organizing protests, and ensuring that the movement remained united. She continues to advocate for Deaf education and leadership.

A smiling man with light gray hair and glasses, wearing a blue blazer over a light blue shirt, against a gray background.

Greg Hlibok, '90

As the Student Body Government President, Greg played a key role in negotiations and public speeches, including appearances on national television advocating for a Deaf president. He works in law and accessibility advocacy.

A bald man with glasses and a slight smile, wearing a dark sweater, against a gray background.

Jerry Covell, '89

A strong voice in the protests, Jerry helped shape the movement’s demands and strategies. He remains committed to social justice and Deaf community empowerment.

The Deaf President Now! Film

A new feature film about the Deaf President Now movement brings this historic moment to life. Deaf President Now!, an Apple Original Film co-directed and co-produced by Gallaudet alum Nyle DiMarco, ’13, and Academy Award-winning producer Davis Guggenheim, explores the courage and determination of the student leaders who sparked a global conversation on Deaf leadership.

Learn More
Watch on Apple TV+

Deaf President Now! Screening Recap

On April 11, the Gallaudet community gathered in Elstad Auditorium for a special screening of Deaf President Now!, co-directed by alum Nyle DiMarco, ’13, and Davis Guggenheim. The documentary honors the 1988 student protest that led to Gallaudet’s first Deaf president and helped spark the ADA.

The event featured a lively Q&A with the filmmakers, DPN leaders, and former President I. King Jordan.

Learn More
‘Deaf President Now!’ Review: Spirited Doc Communicates Why a Turning Point for Deaf Rights Still Matters
Variety
Read more
How the Gallaudet Four Paved the Way for the Americans with Disabilities Act
Biography.com
Read more
How a deaf university fought for its first deaf president
The Washington Post
Read more
‘Deaf President Now!’ Review: Davis Guggenheim and Nyle DiMarco’s Doc Gives the Deaf Rights Movement a Compelling Spotlight
The Hollywood Reporter
Read more
‘Deaf President Now!’ and the Biases of a Hearing World
The New York Times
Click Here
A group of six people sitting on a couch, with one person standing and speaking. The individuals are dressed casually, and the background features a light-colored wall with a subtle pattern. The setting appears to be a cozy living room.

The team behind ‘Deaf President Now!’ explains how they documented a landmark moment in Deaf history

LA Times

A group of six individuals stands on stage, facing an audience. They are dressed in various smart-casual outfits. One person is speaking into a microphone, while the others are attentively listening. The backdrop features a colorful design, and the stage is illuminated.

Riveting Documentary Reveals a Protest with Civil Rights Implications for So Many Groups

IndieWire

A group of six people standing in front of a light blue backdrop, each making a heart shape with their hands. They are smiling and dressed in casual attire, with a mix of jackets and sweaters.

“Deaf President Now!” Resurfaces a Pivotal Civil Rights Struggle

Sundance Film Festival 2025

A black and white photograph of four young adults standing closely together, smiling at the camera. They are outdoors, with buildings and signs in the background, suggesting a public event or gathering. The individuals are casually dressed, and some are wearing buttons on their clothing.

Apple Original Films announces groundbreaking new documentary film “Deaf President Now!”

Apple News

Study at Gallaudet

Be Part of the Next Generation of Leaders

The DPN movement was driven by students who believed in their ability to lead and create change. If you’re inspired by their legacy, consider joining the next generation of Deaf leaders at Gallaudet.

Find Your Program

Gallaudet offers more than 150 degrees, certificates and credentials to prepare outstanding individuals for lives of meaning, purpose and professional success.

Undergraduate
Graduate
Online
Certifications

Experience the Movement

Archival Footage & Historical Coverage

Deaf Mosaic Video – Watch a firsthand documentary capturing the spirit of the movement.

Archival Footage – Browse the original DPN footage used in the Deaf President Now! film.

1988 Media Coverage – Explore news articles from major outlets covering DPN’s impact.

In Their Own Words — Read reflections from students who experienced DPN.
A book cover titled "DEAF PRESIDENT NOW! THE 1988 REVOLUTION AT GALLAUDET UNIVERSITY" by John B. Christiansen and Shaadi H. B. Banakhti. The cover features a photograph of a group of enthusiastic individuals, some holding signs and expressing their support, likely during a protest or demonstration related to the deaf community.
Book cover of "The Week the World Heard Gallaudet" by Jack R. Gannon. The title is prominently displayed in bold black letters on a white background, with the author's name in smaller text below. The cover features an image of the Gallaudet University campus and a banner that reads "Deaf President Now," signifying a historical event related to the university. The overall color scheme includes red and white elements.
Book cover titled "Controlling Our Destiny" by Philip W. Bravin, featuring a teal background with white text. The subtitle reads "A Board Member's View of Deaf President Now." The cover includes a black and white image of a group of people, likely in a meeting or event setting.

Explore Books on the DPN Movement

Gallaudet University Press offers books that capture the history, advocacy, and legacy of the movement. These publications provide valuable insights for students, educators, and allies who want to learn more about Deaf empowerment and activism.

Click on any of the images in this section to explore these impactful books!

Tagged