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Members

In July 2024, the General Assembly authorized formation of the Workgroup for the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing (Chapters 442<https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2024RS/Chapters_noln/CH_442_sb1084t.pdf> &
443, Acts of 2024).

List of members – Updated as of 1/7/2025

No Members Seat
1. Dr. Leo Yates Division of Rehabilitative Services, Maryland Department of Education
2. Dr. Mary Perrodin-Singh National Alliance of Black Interpreters, Gallaudet University
3. Respicius Batamula Community advocate & international program leader for the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing
4. Heidi Burghardt Howard County Association of the Deaf, Maryland School of the Deaf
5. Marcus Smith Maryland Relay, Host of BusBoys and Poets Open Mic Night for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community
6. Samantha Simpson Washington County Community Leader
7. Bridgetta Bourne-Firl Managing Director, Maryland Deaf Community Center
8. Vikki Porter Maryland Association of the Deaf
9. Blake Sansonese Eastern Deaf Timberfest Interpreting Committee, Freelance ASL Interpreter
10. Seat 10 VACANT