Adventures in Education
Rochester School for the Deaf
is pleased to present
Adventures in Education
DEAF PRESIDENT NOW
The Gallaudet Protest and the Changes it Ignited
The Gallaudet Protest and the Changes it Ignited
Tim Rarus | Bridgetta Bourne-Firl | Greg Hlibok | Jerry Covell
A conversation with the four student leaders of Gallaudet University’s
historic Deaf President Now protest, which demanded a Deaf president
and galvanized a global movement for Deaf and disabled civil rights.
Thursday, November 6, 2025
5:30pm Reception | 7pm Program
historic Deaf President Now protest, which demanded a Deaf president
and galvanized a global movement for Deaf and disabled civil rights.
Thursday, November 6, 2025
5:30pm Reception | 7pm Program
Tickets
Presentation Only | $20
Reception and Presentation | $60
Sponsorships | $250+
Presentation Only Students | $10
With a K-12 or College ID
Deaf President Now: A Movement That Changed History
In March 1988, Gallaudet University, one of the world’s leading institutions for Deaf and hard-of-hearing students, became the center of a bold, student-led uprising known as Deaf President Now (DPN). After the Board of Trustees selected a hearing candidate over two qualified Deaf contenders, students, faculty, staff, and allies united in protest.
For eight days, they demanded representation and equity — and won. Dr. I. King Jordan was named Gallaudet’s first Deaf president, a victory that echoed far beyond campus. Learn more from Gallaudet.»
DPN was a watershed moment in Deaf and disabled civil rights, proving that communities must be free to lead themselves. Its story is told powerfully in the Emmy-nominated documentary Deaf President Now!, co-directed by Nyle DiMarco and Davis Guggenheim, featuring interviews with the original student leaders and archival footage. Stream the documentary on Apple TV (subscription required).»
We invite you to continue the conversation and explore DPN’s lasting impact at Adventures in Education on November 6 at Rochester School for the Deaf.
ABOUT THE SPEAKERS
Tim Rarus
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.
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.
Bridgetta Bourne-FirlBridgetta was instrumental in mobilizing students, organizing protests, and ensuring that the movement remained united. She continues to advocate for Deaf education and leadership.
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.
Jerry CovellA strong voice in the protests, Jerry helped shape the movement’s demands and strategies. He remains committed to social justice and Deaf community empowerment.
Photos and bios courtesy of the Gallaudet University Archives.
For more detailed information on the speakers, see Gallaudet University on Deaf President Now.
SPONSOR ADVENTURES
When you sponsor Adventures, you do more than fund an event — you open doors of possibility for our students. Your support gives them a chance to learn directly from leaders who embody resilience, advocacy, and achievement. These moments of inspiration build confidence, cultural pride, and the belief that they, too, can change the world. Sponsorship ensures that this legacy of courage and imagination continues to enrich both RSD and the larger community.