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GUAA & Clerc Cultural Commi...
Charter Day 2025: Gallaudet’s 161st anniversary
Every year, Gallaudet celebrates Charter Day: the anniversary of the day that President Abraham Lincoln signed the charter founding Gallaudet University.
Charter Day is an opportunity for the Gallaudet community to reflect on how far the university has come since its humble beginnings in 1864, and celebrate the people who are sustaining our community today.
In 2025, Gallaudet turns 161 years old! We have lots of historical resources that you can explore to learn more about our journey, including a History page, an interactive timeline, and digital archives.
The Gallaudet Alumni Association (GUAA) celebrates Charter Day with an event that honors the work happening in the Deaf and hard of hearing community today.
GUAA presents three annual awards, and also partners with the Clerc Cultural Committee (CCC) for additional honors.
GUAA Advocacy and Social Justice Award in honor of Gertrude Scott Galloway, ’51, PhD ’93 & H-’02
Dorian Fletcher, ’00
A dedicated community member in Washington, D.C., recognized for his years of service to Black Deaf communities in the District of Columbia, the Eastern Seaboard, and nationally.
GUAA Above and Beyond Volunteer Award in honor of Pauline ‘Polly’ Peikoff, E-’36
Diego Ozuna-Clark
Honored for his tireless advocacy in embracing Deaf identity, promoting Disability Pride, fostering unity among diverse communities, and working to increase voter awareness within the signing community.
Outstanding Young Alumnus Award
Zachary Ennis, ’13
Recognized for his efforts to combat food insecurity in the Deaf community in Rochester, New York, by establishing Rochester Deaf Kitchen.
Clerc Cultural Committee Award in Advocacy
Mary Jane “MJ” Grant
Honored for her advocacy in raising awareness about the need for greater healthcare options and enhanced accessibility for deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing individuals with dementia.
Clerc Cultural Committee Award in Art
Patty Liang
Celebrated for her leadership as Executive Director of Deaf Spotlight, a Seattle-based nonprofit organization that showcases Deaf culture and sign languages through the arts.
April 24, 2025
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April 19, 2025