Letter to Board of Trustees

October 24, 2006



Dr. Brenda Bruegemann, Chair Board of Trustees

Dr. I. King Jordan, President, Gallaudet University


The Gallaudet University Alumni Association Board of Directors met on campus this recent weekend. Additionally, thousands of alumni from all over the world also arrived on campus for what was supposed to be our Homecoming.

We were all saddened and dismayed to witness the protest that has been going on now for two weeks. The ongoing crisis has escalated and appears there is no end in sight. Dr. Fernandes was relieved from her duties as Provost to attend the development of faculty and community relations. It is interesting to note, that she has not been successful in that regard, especially with the 82% of the faculty vote of no confidence.

The tragic situation is all due to the selection of Dr. Jane K. Fernandes as president designate. All the letters we have read from so many prominent Deaf leaders and Deaf organizations clearly show that support for Dr. Fernandes is non-existent!

Unless Dr. Fernandes comes to her senses or the Board of Trustees finally realize their selection for the 9th president of Gallaudet will not be accepted, it’s apparent that our alma mater is heading toward irreparable damage. This has gone beyond the issue of whether or not she is “qualified.” The Gallaudet Community has made it crystal clear that they will not accept your selection.

This past weekend, alumni have made it clear they will not continue to support the University with their annual donations. Many prominent alumni, who have made significant donations and pledges to Gallaudet, have decided to their contributions on “hold.”

In view of the deplorable attitude by the Board of Trustees, Dr. Jordan, and Dr. Fernandes, the GUAA Board of Directors at its meeting yesterday voted unanimously to:

1. Inform all alumni that they have other options available to make their annual donations.
2. Establish a fundraising committee
3. Develop a GUAA website to better communicate with our alumni

Several other items were discussed and passed that may have an impact on the University’s fundraising efforts in the future but it would be pointless to share them with you now.

It is obvious that all the letters in support of the protest are proving to be fruitless and the time has come for action.


Gallaudet University Alumni Association Board of Directors