The American School for the Deaf held its 209th Commencement on June 12, 2026 on its West Hartford campus.

American School for the Deaf 209th Commencement. June 12, 2026. Photo credit: Adonis Giantomidis

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The American School for the Deaf (ASD) celebrated its 209th Commencement Ceremony on June 12, honoring 19 graduates as they embark on their next chapters, including college, employment opportunities, vocational pathways, and continued development of independent living skills.

The ceremony featured a commencement address by Olympic Gold Medalist Elana Meyers Taylor, a five-time Olympian, six-time Olympic medalist, and mother of two deaf sons. While her athletic accomplishments have made her one of the most decorated athletes in Winter Olympic history, it was her personal connection to the Deaf community that made her participation especially meaningful for ASD students and families.

American School for the Deaf 209th Commencement. June 12, 2026. Photo credit: Adonis Giantomidis

In her remarks, Meyers Taylor reflected on her family’s journey following the diagnosis of her oldest son and the support they received from the Deaf community as they learned to navigate a new world of communication, language, and advocacy. She spoke about the importance of perseverance, embracing challenges, and refusing to let setbacks define one’s future.

“Failing is not a bad thing. Not trying is.”

Meyers Taylor encouraged graduates to pursue their goals with confidence and resilience, reminding them:

“You are more capable than you realize, and the next time you have any doubts, remember there’s an Olympic champion that believes in you.”

American School for the Deaf 209th Commencement. June 12, 2026. Photo credit: Adonis Giantomidis

For many families in attendance, her message resonated on a deeply personal level. As the mother of two deaf sons, Meyers Taylor shares many of the same hopes, challenges, and aspirations experienced by ASD families. Her presence served as a powerful reminder that communication, community, and determination can open doors to limitless possibilities.

ASD Executive Director Jeffrey S. Bravin praised the Class of 2026 for their achievements in academics, athletics, leadership, STEM programs, community engagement, and career readiness.

American School for the Deaf 209th Commencement. June 12, 2026. Photo credit: Adonis Giantomidis

“The Class of 2026 represents the very best of what ASD stands for. They have embraced opportunities, discovered their strengths, supported one another, and demonstrated every day what it truly means to be ALL Ways Able.”

The ceremony also marked several notable milestones, including the graduation of ASD’s first student from the Autism Expansion Program and the continued success of students participating in ASD’s Bridges Transition Academy.

Founded in 1817, the American School for the Deaf is the nation’s first permanent school for the Deaf and remains a leader in providing language-rich educational opportunities for Deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind, and students with unique communication needs.

American School for the Deaf 209th Commencement. June 12, 2026. Photo credit: Adonis Giantomidis

American School for the Deaf 209th Commencement. June 12, 2026. Photo credit: Adonis Giantomidis

American School for the Deaf 209th Commencement. June 12, 2026. Photo credit: Adonis Giantomidis

American School for the Deaf 209th Commencement. June 12, 2026. Photo credit: Adonis Giantomidis

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