Roberta “Bobbi” Cordano: President of Gallaudet University

The Caring Economy with Toby Usnik

Roberta “Bobbi” Cordano is a values-driven leader focused on sign language equity in education, economic opportunity, innovation, and belonging as president of Gallaudet University, the only birth-PhD education entity in the world that uses American Sign Language in every aspect of its daily education and operations.

Always curious, President Cordano is guiding Gallaudet as it transforms to meet the demands of the 21st century. Being deaf is part of human diversity and President Cordano is a fierce advocate for deaf people being embraced in all facets of society. Showcasing the value, contributions, and innate innovation of deaf people, as well as the power of sign language, is at the heart of President Cordano’s leadership.

Knowing that true transformation can only happen if a multitude of perspectives and experiences are welcomed, President Cordano is vigilant in infusing equity, diversity, and inclusion into all aspects of Gallaudet. She is focused on creating a welcoming and engaging experience for all students, and strengthening efforts to ensure they are active citizens at Gallaudet and in the community, nation, and world.

With wide-ranging, extensive experience from her roles as a Minnesota assistant attorney general, vice president of the Amherst H. Wilder Foundation, educational administrator at the University of Minnesota, and a founder of two charter schools, President Cordano knows the critical importance of education and access to opportunities and systems, particularly for marginalized communities. She is honored to be the first deaf woman and openly LGBTQ president and excited for the continued transformation and impact Gallaudet will have on deaf lives throughout the nation and across the globe.

Education

• Juris Doctorate, University of Wisconsin, Madison
• Bachelor of Arts, Beloit College
• Honorary Doctorate, Beloit College

Don't forget to check out my book that inspired this podcast series, The Caring Economy: How to Win With Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

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