MISSION

Gallaudet University, federally chartered in 1864, is a bilingual, diverse, multicultural institution of higher education that ensures the intellectual and professional advancement of deaf and hard of hearing individuals through American Sign Language (ASL) and English. Gallaudet maintains a proud tradition of research and scholarly activity and prepares its graduates for career opportunities in a highly competitive, technological, and rapidly changing world.

VISION

Gallaudet University will build upon its rich history as the world’s premier institution of higher education serving deaf and hard of hearing people, to become the university of choice for the most qualified, diverse group of deaf and hard of hearing students in the world, as well as hearing students pursuing careers related to deaf and hard of hearing people. Gallaudet will empower its graduates with the knowledge and practical skills vital to achieving personal and professional success in the changing local and global communities in which they live and work. Gallaudet will also strive to become the leading international resource for research, innovation, and outreach related to deaf and hard-of-hearing people.

Gallaudet will achieve these outcomes through:

• A bilingual learning environment featuring ASL and English, providing full access to learning and communication for all students;
• A commitment to excellence in learning and student service;
• A world-class campus in the nation’s capital;
• The creation of a virtual campus that expands Gallaudet’s reach to a broader audience of visual learners; and
• An environment in which research can grow, develop, and improve the lives and knowledge of all deaf and hard of hearing people worldwide.