The National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes is excited to be attending the National Black Deaf Advocates conference in Birmingham, AL, August 8th-12th, 2023!
Session 1: August 9, 2023 , 9:15am
Improving Postsecondary Educational Experiences & Outcomes for Black Deaf Students
Presenters: Tia Ivanko, Dr. Latisha Porter-Vaughn, Latoya Dixon
Deaf students regularly face barriers navigating postsecondary education and training opportunities. The barriers are complex and are a direct result of structural inequities deeply embedded in programs, institutions, and agencies providing services to deaf people. At the National Deaf Center (NDC), we see the impact of barriers reflected in data collected and lived experiences of Black deaf people.
This session invites community members to connect and engage with NDC. It offers an interactive discussion on the educational experiences of Black deaf students pursuing postsecondary education and training. NDC will present qualitative and quantitative data, discuss national barriers and challenges, highlight factors essential for postsecondary success, and facilitate roundtable discussions on postsecondary programs and services.
Session 2: August 11, 2023 , 9:15am
Best Decision Ever: Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Deaf Students
Collaborative Presentation: Dr. Lissa Rameriz-Stapleton & NDC: Tia Ivanko & Dr. Latisha Porter-Vaughn
The National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes, in collaboration with, Dr. Ramirez-Stapleton embarked on a collaborative project that sought to support institutional capacity at HBCUs, to recruit, retain, and support deaf students. This work had a two-pronged approach, first connecting directly with HBCUs and second reaching out to students currently attending HBCUs. We hosted listening sessions with Disability Services staff, interviewed alums and current Deaf students attending HBCUs, and visited various HBCU campuses. The research shows there are rewards and challenges for Deaf students attending an HBCU. Still, those who attended had positive Black experiences and learned to self-advocate to get their needs and accommodations met. We will share data from interviews, listening sessions, and campus visits. The most potent part of this session is the student panel. Deaf students attending an HBCU will share their journeys, the good, the challenges, and everything in between.
