Giving Something Back

”When young Edward Miner Gallaudet (EMG), the first principal of the newly established Kendall School for deaf and blind students, founded in Washington, D.C. in 1857 by Amos Kendall and Congress, requested authorization and funds to offer more advanced studies at the school, some members of Congress opposed the idea. One called it ‘ridiculous’ that deaf individuals could earn a college degree. Fortunately for deaf people of the world, the majority of our Congressional representatives saw the value of a college education. Out of this collegiate department a university was born during the throes of the Civil War when President Abraham Lincoln signed our charter in 1864.

Dr. Jack L. Gannon in a red striped shirt and baseball cap hugs his wife, Rosalyn

Dr. Jack R. Gannon and Ms. Rosalyn L. Gannon. Photo Courtesy of Christine Gannon, 2013.

Gallaudet has become a national treasure and the Gallaudet University Museum will share that story. As the University approaches its 150th anniversary, it is time to give back to our nation and that is what the Gallaudet University Museum will do through exhibitions, media and programs. Rather than a ‘ridiculous’ folly, the University's deaf and hard of hearing graduates have proven time and time again that America's support was justified and a wise investment!

As founders of a fund to found the Museum, we rededicate our support for its mission and ask that all who care about greater cultural and linguistic understanding to join us."

—Jack R. and Rosalyn Lee Gannon, Class of 1959.

Learn more about Dr. Jack R. and Rosalyn Lee Gannon as the Honorary Chairs of the Gallaudet University Museum.