Statement By Dr. Jane Fernandes

From: Gallaudet - Oct 13, 2006

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: MERCY COOGAN
October 13, 2006 202-299-6117

STATEMENT BY JANE FERNANDES, PRESIDENT DESIGNATE, GALLAUDET

Delivered at 2:15 pm today from the Security Kiosk at Gallaudet University campus:

“Hello. I am Jane Fernandes, President Designate of Gallaudet University. I am here to ask a small group of students in the protest to meet me in 15 minutes for a beginning dialogue on issues that concern you. The situation here at Gallaudet is grave and I am deeply distressed, as I know all of you are, about it.

“For one week, deaf infants and children and youth up to grade 8 have not been able to go to school. For one week, our model high school has been closed. For one week, both undergraduate and graduate students have been denied their education.

“For one week, we have had no mail delivered. Deaf babies scheduled for hearing tests and audiology exams are not able to get on campus. Senior citizens who are hard of hearing and seek the services of our audiology clinic cannot get here.

“This has gone on long enough. I am asking a small group of students to join me now for a conversation about re-opening Gallaudet University without delay. I hope you will meet with me.”

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