American School for the Deaf exhibit displayed at Washburn Arts Center showcasing 200 years of deaf education

Linda K. Jordan Gallery Hosting Exhibit on Language and Culture

Photos by Andrew Greenman. Jane Golightly gives a presentation about the importance of the exhibit.

The American School for the Deaf (ASD) is hosting an exhibition, “Language, Culture, Communities: 200 Years of Impact by the American School for the Deaf,” at the Linda K. Jordan Gallery, Washburn Arts Building (WAB) between January and April 2018, showcasing photos, paintings, artwork, and memorabilia since its establishment as the first school for the deaf 200 years ago.

The exhibition is on loan from the Connecticut Historical Society Museum and Library (CHS), and ASD. It was originally on display at CHS in 2017, and in 2018 received an award of merit from the Connecticut League of History Organizations; it has also been nominated for an award of merit from the American Association of State and Local History.

On February 9, a celebratory event was held at WAB after the winter Board of Trustees meeting. Attendees included Board of Trustees members and President Roberta J. Cordano. Brief presentations were given by Meredith Peruzzi, Gallaudet Museum manager; Tiffany Williams, Board of Trustees chair; Jane Golightly,; and Cordano. They each emphasized the importance of history and preservation for the community.

Peruzzi emphasized the importance of object-based learning to the educational community.

“Seeing and interacting with physical objects that represent our history gives visitors a more robust understanding and goes hand-in-hand with other pedagogical methods to enhance the student experience,” said Peruzzi.

The exhibit will remain at the gallery through the Charter Day festivities on April 7, 2018.

Gallaudet University Museum manager Meredith Peruzzi contributed to this story.