Call for papers symposium

On April 9 and 10, 2014, Gallaudet University will host a 2-day symposium titled Celebrating 150 Years of Visionary Leadership in Washington, D.C. This gathering of scholars marks the 150th anniversary of access to higher education for Deaf students. The collegiate department of the Columbia Institution for Instruction of the Deaf and Dumb and the Blind, founded in 1864, came to be known as National Deaf-Mute College and is now Gallaudet University. Its’ creation was a turning point in Deaf history, impacting the nation and the world.

Organizers seek proposals for presentations that explore Deaf history and culture, especially those that intersect with Gallaudet’s history and legacy. All topics will be considered, but preference is given to presentations that tie in with symposium’s intent to examine the origins of Gallaudet University and its impact on the world. Additionally, we are interested in scholarship across all disciplines that have enhanced our understanding of deaf people.

The University will waive symposium registration fees for those whose proposals have been accepted.

Interested presenters should write a short proposal (no more than 250 words) or submit a signed proposal (no more than 2 minutes). The proposal should include the following information: title, content, and manner of presentation such as ASL or spoken English. Most presentations are expected to run approximately 25-30 minutes.

Proposal Deadline: October 30, 2013

By mail (must be postmarked by October 30, 2013)

William Ennis, Program Chair
Department of History
Gallaudet University
800 Florida Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20002

Proposals and questions may be sent electronically to: 150symposium@gallaudet.edu.

This symposium is sponsored by: Office of the President, Office of the Provost, with support provided by the Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center, Gallaudet University Department of ASL & Deaf Studies, and the Department of History, Philosophy, Religion, and Sociology.