People of the Eye

I have read many of the letters sent to the FSSA and am moved by the sincereity and the concern for Gallaudet. Some of the letters are heart rending, bringing tears to my eyes. These letters from staff members fearing to sign their names are the ones that tear me apart. I know that fear; I know that hesitancy and concern for “keeping my job”; I know the need to “just do my job” until retirement. I lived that fear for at least 15 years up until my retirement from Gallaudet in January, 2005. What I now hear frequently these days are: “you’re lucky you were able to retire now”; “I am going to retire early”; I am working in an unhealthy environment”.

What keeps us there under those conditions? HOPE! Hope for a better tomorrow. Hope for our students–for they are the true reason that Gallaudet exists. Hope that we individually can make a difference in students’ lives and instill in them character, wisdom, and the commitment to become productive, active citizens of this wonderful country. The bottom line is that I love Gallaudet. I spent most of my life there as a student, graduate student, and employee. I never forgot where I came from, how I ended up at Gallaudet, but most of all what Gallaudet gave me.

When I interviewed students for paraprofessional positions, I used quotes to glean character and integrity. One quote that I used often was “Character is doing the right thing when nobody is looking.” Most of the students immediately knew what I was looking for and what the quote implied. To the BOT, Dr. Jordan and Dr. Fernandes: Are you doing the right thing? Is it your stance to win the race at all costs? Or will you do the right thing by stepping aside to allow Gallaudet to heal and become once again the top university for deaf students around the world?

Though I am saddened by the turn of events at Gallaudet, I have to admit I am in awe of the students, faculty, staff and alumni who are standing up to this oppressive environment. I pray for Gallaudet and its people daily. I pray for wisdom and non-violence. I pray that the BOT will wake up and truly listen to Gallaudet’s people.

Norma Buemi
Class of ‘67
Retired Gallaudet employee, 2005