R. Steve Ackley Memorial Scholarship

Dr. Steve Ackley was a beloved friend, colleague, and mentor to many. Dr. Ackley served in numerous roles at Gallaudet, including Audiology Program Director, Department Chair, Faculty Senate representative, and student organization advisor. His teaching and mentoring were student-centered and focused on lifelong learning and humanitarian ideals. With a natural ability to connect with those around him, he often acted as a motivator for other’s research and professional development. He is fondly remembered for his warmth, humor, devotion to his family and to his students, and commitment to audiology and deaf education.

The Steve Ackley Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in September 2014 by the faculty of the Department of Hearing, Speech, and Language Sciences (HSLS). The HSLS faculty hosted a conference honoring Steve in November 2014. The 14 presenters, all his former colleagues or students, generously donated their time and expertise share their current works and stories about Steve. The conference brought over 100 attendees to Gallaudet campus, 100% of proceeds going to the Scholarship Fund. With outpouring support and donations from numerous family, friends, former students and colleagues, the Fund raised over $25,000 in just one year to be fully endowed in Fall 2015, and it continues to grow. Among the most consistent and persistent donors 10 years later are Kate and Shawn Zeller and Amanda Connelly.

To make a tax-deductible contribution, please visit the donation page (or go to gu.live/AckleyFund) to make your contribution.