Indiana Association of the Deaf

Indiana Association of the Deaf Indiana Association of the Deaf is an advocacy organization serving the Deaf community in the great state of Indiana since 1880.

The Indiana Association of the Deaf (IAD) was founded in 1880 by Deaf people who were concerned that Deaf people were not included in the decision and policy making processes affecting their lives. Today, the IAD is a dynamic and growing organization with organizational affiliates, and direct members. The IAD serves as an advocate for more than 400,000 Deaf and Hard of Hearing Hoosiers.

On Day 4 of IAD’s 14-Day Deaf Spotlight Series, we recognize Corey Burton, a Black Deaf leader whose work continues to i...
09/10/2025

On Day 4 of IAD’s 14-Day Deaf Spotlight Series, we recognize Corey Burton, a Black Deaf leader whose work continues to inspire the next generation.

Corey graduated from the Indiana School for the Deaf in 2008 and went on to study at RIT/NTID, earning a degree in Applied Computer Technology before completing a bachelor’s in Organizational Change & Leadership with minors in Quality Management and Communication.

At NTID, Corey was an active student leader, serving as President of the NTID Student Congress, President of the Ebony Club, and a mentor in Student Life. He also directed youth programs with the National Black Deaf Advocates, helping to build opportunities for Deaf youth of color nationwide.

Professionally, Corey worked in video relay services and later as Director of Enterprise Video Solutions Account Management before transitioning in 2023 to his current role as Customer Experience Manager at Gallaudet University. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to leadership, innovation, and advocacy in the Deaf community.

Image Description:
Image 1: A beige background with IAD logo top right. Bold text reads “Deaf Spotlight Series.” A navy box says “Meet Corey” with an arrow pointing right. A black man is pictured in a candid shot signing in ASL, wearing a black and red t-shirt with a chain necklace. A “Swipe

On Day 3 of IAD’s 14-Day Deaf Spotlight Series, we honor Stephen “Steve” Miller, a pioneer who left a lasting mark on In...
09/09/2025

On Day 3 of IAD’s 14-Day Deaf Spotlight Series, we honor Stephen “Steve” Miller, a pioneer who left a lasting mark on Indiana’s Deaf community.

Born in Gary, Indiana, Steve graduated as valedictorian from the Indiana School for the Deaf and later earned his Bachelor’s degree from Gallaudet University. He went on to dedicate 38 years to the Post Tribune, while raising a family with his wife Doris.

In 1978, Steve founded Deaf Services, Incorporated (DSI) in Northwest Indiana, an agency that continues to provide essential resources to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community to this day. He was also passionate about teaching sign language, sharing communication and connection with countless individuals.

Remembered for his kindness, leadership, and infectious smile, Steve’s legacy lives on through his family, DSI, and the generations of Hoosiers who benefited from his vision.

Image Description:
Image 1: A beige background with IAD logo top right. Bold text reads “Deaf Spotlight Series.” A navy box says “Meet Steve” with an arrow pointing right. A black-and-white photo shows a white man in a suit, standing with arms wrapped. A “Swipe

On Day 2 of IAD’s 14-Day Deaf Spotlight Series, we honor Rhonda Marcum, whose decades of service strengthened resources ...
09/08/2025

On Day 2 of IAD’s 14-Day Deaf Spotlight Series, we honor Rhonda Marcum, whose decades of service strengthened resources and advocacy for Deaf Hoosiers.

Rhonda led Indiana’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS) office for many years, ensuring access, equity, and support for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people across the state. Before that, she served as a Rehabilitation Counselor for the Deaf, guiding countless individuals toward independence and employment.

This month, Rhonda retired after a distinguished career, proudly handing the reins of DHHS to Davina Brimmer. She retired alongside her wife, Jan Bivens, who dedicated her career to the Indiana School for the Deaf. Together, they leave behind a legacy of leadership, advocacy, and community-building that will continue to inspire future generations.

Image Description:
Image 1: A beige background with IAD logo top right and bold text “Deaf Spotlight Series.” A navy box says “Meet Rhonda” with an arrow pointing right. A color photo of a white woman in colorful tank top smiling while hugging a young child. A “Swipe

Today is 988 Day,  raising awareness about the 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline and the importance of compassionate, access...
09/08/2025

Today is 988 Day, raising awareness about the 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline and the importance of compassionate, accessible mental health support.

This year’s theme, “Compassionate Help. Anytime. Anywhere.” reminds us that support is always within reach. Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals can connect directly with crisis counselors by dialing 988 using their own Videophone (VP) or smartphone through a Video Relay Service (VRS) app. Additionally, you can contact 988 by text or chat.

IAD is proud to join communities across the nation to spread the word: help is here, anytime you need it.

Image Description: A bright graphic with a yellow background features a blue silhouette of a person’s head in profile. Inside the head is an open doorway revealing plants, leaves, and colorful shapes. Around the head are clouds, birds, and stars. Bold text below reads: “Your Mental Health Matters.” At the bottom right, a speech bubble icon with the words “988 Day” appears next to the theme: “Compassionate Help. Anytime. Anywhere.” In the lower left corner is the Indiana Association of the Deaf (IAD) circular logo.

***dePrevention

Today we launch IAD’s 14-Day Deaf Spotlight Series for Deaf Awareness Month! For Day 1, we are proud to feature Margaret...
09/07/2025

Today we launch IAD’s 14-Day Deaf Spotlight Series for Deaf Awareness Month!

For Day 1, we are proud to feature Margaret “Peggy” Baldridge

Peggy lived a full 100 years as a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. A Kendall School and Gallaudet College alumna, she dedicated 27 years of service at the Indiana School for the Deaf, where she was deeply respected by students and colleagues alike.

Alongside her husband Paul, Peggy helped shape ISD’s legacy and the wider Deaf community. Known for her warmth, style, and commitment to lifelong learning, Peggy leaves behind a legacy that continues through her family and the generations she inspired.

Stay tuned each day this month as we continue spotlighting Deaf Hoosiers who have left their mark on our history.

The Indiana Association of the Deaf General Meeting will be held on Saturday, September 27, from 10 AM to 1 PM CST in a ...
09/05/2025

The Indiana Association of the Deaf General Meeting will be held on Saturday, September 27, from 10 AM to 1 PM CST in a hybrid format (in-person and online).

If you need accommodations, the deadline to submit your request is September 12 at 5 PM EST. Don’t wait — make sure your access needs are met.

Submit your request here: https://forms.gle/ZfGWegN3BnU4zaZh8

Image Description: A smartphone screen with IAD logo on top right and with a beige reminder box that says: “REMINDER – Deadline to request accommodations for our general meeting is on Sept 12 at 5:00 PM EST.” Background is soft pink.

Indiana Association of the Deaf is proud to celebrate the history, culture, and contributions of Deaf Hoosiers. Since 18...
09/02/2025

Indiana Association of the Deaf is proud to celebrate the history, culture, and contributions of Deaf Hoosiers. Since 1886, we’ve stood alongside our community, advocating for equity and accessibility in Indiana.

Join us this month in honoring Deaf voices, stories, and achievements 💙

The recording of our recent Community Action Night (CAN) event is now available for viewing!We acknowledge there were so...
08/29/2025

The recording of our recent Community Action Night (CAN) event is now available for viewing!

We acknowledge there were some visibility issues in the recording, and we are committed to improving access for all participants at future hybrid meetings.

Please turn on closed captions (CC) while watching. Captions have been carefully reviewed and mostly updated for clarity and accuracy, though some sections remain unmodified.

Watch the recording here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8l2_8NMhDSg

Tomorrow at 7 pm at the Greater Indianapolis Deaf Club! For this night only, the club is free to enter and ASL interpret...
08/24/2025

Tomorrow at 7 pm at the Greater Indianapolis Deaf Club! For this night only, the club is free to enter and ASL interpreters will be provided.

We invite community members, especially parents of current ISD students and alumni, to come together and discuss the budget cuts and what is happening right now.

We will have Dr. David Geeslin, Sarah Leone from Count Us In (), and Jinny Kim from DREDF () sharing with us.

Special thanks to Jennifer Friede for her support and to for sponsoring this important night.

Fresh fruits, snacks, and water will be provided. See you there! 💙

08/17/2025

Join us right now for the Indiana Association of the Deaf Open House streaming live here on Facebook! The entire presentation will be done in ASL.

Come meet our board, learn what IAD does for the Deaf community, and see how you can get involved. Ask your questions in the comments. We’re here to connect with you in real time.

Want to join us via Zoom? Here's the link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88235578911?pwd=UtCoHbvr5KRbBYYl7Eiv5W5QphSPdD.1

Address

1200 E 42nd Street
Indianapolis, IN
46205

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Our Story

The Indiana Association of the Deaf (IAD) was founded in 1880 by Deaf people who were concerned that Deaf people were not included in the decision and policy making processes affecting their lives. Today, the IAD is a dynamic and growing organization with organizational affiliates, and direct members. The IAD serves as an advocate for more than 400,000 Deaf and Hard of Hearing Hoosiers.