National Association of the Deaf

The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) was an exhibitor at the popular and very successful 7th Biennial Conference of Deaf Seniors of America (DSA) held in Boston, Massachusetts, May 20-25, 2003.

The new "eye" catching NAD display was a popular spot for attendees to stop and learn about how the NAD is working to protect the civil rights of all deaf and hard of hearing Americans. The colorful eye on the new traveling display, made possible through a generous contribution from Verizon, attracted the DSA crowd, many of whom became national members. Nancy J. Bloch, NAD Executive Director; Nancy B. Rarus, NAD Associate Executive Director for Programs; Ron Nomeland, NAD Membership Coordinator; Rosalyn Rosen, former NAD president; Yerker Andersson, former WFD president, and Bill Stiftler manned the booth throughout the three day exhibit hall.

"The DSA conference is always so popular and this one was no exception. I am so glad that the NAD, for the first time, was able to have such a prominent presence at the conference," Bloch commented. "We were thrilled with the warm and welcoming reception."

In honor of the DSA Conference, the NAD chose to focus on Senior Citizens in the April/May issue of the NADmag and timed its printing to appear on display in the Exhibit Hall. James DeBonis and Taras Denis, both active in DSA, contributed articles to the Senior Citizens issue. The NADmag, a full color magazine, is sent to all national NAD members.

Incidentally, two NAD staff members are now active on the DSA Board of Directors. Nancy B. Rarus, Associate Executive Director, Programs was elected secretary and Ron Nomeland, Membership Coordinator continues his second term on the DSA Board. The NAD Board, staff, and members congratulate them on their new positions.