2024 Annual Report
The Deaf Center
We are proud to introduce the Deaf Center, renewing the leadership and innovation of Boston University's Deaf Studies program Center for the Study of Communication and the Deaf. Building on decades of impactful work, this reimagining brings renewed energy, focus, and collaboration to our efforts. The Deaf Center unites our projects under a shared vision, fostering stronger connections and creating a dynamic space for innovation and community engagement. Together, we honor the past while charting an exciting path forward, driven by our mission to support deaf and hard of hearing children, families, and communities.
Our Mission
Generating Deaf centered, evidence-based resources for families, educators, healthcare professionals, and communities so all deaf and hard of hearing children—through complete access to language—will thrive.
Focus Areas
This year, through two dedicated retreats, we came together to craft a comprehensive strategic plan. Together, we identified three key focus areas that will guide our work moving forward. These priorities will guide our efforts and ensure we stay focused on delivering our mission: that all deaf and hard of hearing children thrive through complete access to language.
1
Research
Our research explores how early experiences with language shape how deaf children learn and grow. We also develop sign language-based technologies. Our findings help shape best practices for educators, healthcare providers, and families.​
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Lead the field of language acquisition in deaf children
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Cultivate the next generation of deaf researchers
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Develop innovative methods and technology for sign language research
2
Education
We generate resources for educators to support deaf children’s language and literacy, with a focus on multilingualism and diverse language use. Our goal is to help educators create language-rich, learning environments for all deaf students.
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Empower educators with curriculum, literature, assessments, and more
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Provide thought leadership in multilingual education
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Build a global educator network
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Serve as a catalyst for educational innovation
3
Community Building
We bring community together through performances, workshops, and online and in person gatherings. This work amplifies Deaf perspectives and fosters a strong, connected community.
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Build a global social media network to mobilize supporters for our mission
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Create an online hub for evidence-based resources for families and practitioners
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Partner closely with Boston Deaf communities and families
Our Impact This Year
2.5K
EVENT ATTENDEES
$7.9M
RESEARCH GRANTS
2.6M
SOCIAL MEDIA REACH
11
RESEARCH ARTICLES
31
SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS
Research that Resonates
This year, our research has spanned foundational discoveries and practical applications. We’ve explored how sign languages enrich our understanding of language as a whole, designed tools to advance sign language technology, and developed resources to support parents. By connecting theoretical insights to tangible impact, our work is designed to empower families and practitioners and ensure that all deaf and hard of hearing children have complete access to language. Learn more about the studies we published this year.
Bridging Research and Community
Over the past year, we have worked to meet people where they are—on social media and other public channels. Through these platforms, we’ve engaged with deaf or hard of hearing people, parents, educators, and medical providers, translating research into accessible resources and fostering a more informed and connected community.
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View Count: 136K
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The #LivingLanguage Project
Our new #LivingLanguage project captures the diverse and rich experiences of families navigating language learning with their deaf or hard of hearing child. Through shared stories, this project highlights the joys, challenges, and resilience of families as they explore language access and connection, creating a powerful resource for others on similar journeys.
When your child is born, meet them, and they show you who they are,
and they show you what they need.
Malia's mother, Mildred Lewis
Innovating in Schools
This year, we worked with 23 schools across the United States, along with three in Canada and one in Japan. Additionally, we partnered with Deaf West Theatre, providing workshops for teachers during their theatre camp. These collaborations focused on equipping educators with strategies to implement curriculum specifically designed for deaf children, rooted in a strong foundation in sign language.
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Community in Action
We regularly host events that carve out space at Boston University for the Deaf community. These gatherings emphasized the importance of embedding our work within the community, fostering relationships, and ensuring that our efforts reflect and amplify the experiences, stories, and strengths of Deaf communities.
Our Partners
Partnerships are at the heart of our work. This year, we strengthened collaborations with universities, deaf schools, and other Deaf organizations. These partnerships amplify our impact, foster innovation, and ensure that our efforts remain aligned with the needs and strengths of the communities we serve. Together, we are building a future where all deaf and hard of hearing children thrive.
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Take Action
Deaf kids are counting on us, and they can't wait. Let's work together to create a world where deaf and hard of hearing children have full access to language. Whether by donating to our mission, getting training, or sharing resources, you have the power to transform lives. Together, we can build a future where every deaf and hard of hearing child thrives.
