The Mississippi Association of the Deaf (MAD) is the leading statewide advocacy organization promoting civil rights, sign language, and equality for Deaf and hard-of-hearing residents in Mississippi. Incorporated in Mississippi since January 1998, MAD is an affiliate of the National Association of the Deaf (NAD).
- Advocacy & Rights: Defending the rights of Deaf and hard-of-hearing Mississippians in education, employment, and public life.
- Education Support: Assisting the administrators and faculty of the Mississippi School for the Deaf (MSD) to provide quality academic and cultural experiences for Deaf youth.
- Unity & Awareness: Connecting the statewide Deaf community and promoting Deaf culture and ASL awareness.
- Cost: $25 annually (tax-deductible or standard membership)
- Payment: Mailed to P.O. Box 320122, Jackson, Mississippi 39232-0122
| Role |
Name |
| President |
Charlene Moulds |
| Vice President |
(elected) |
| Secretary |
(elected) |
| Treasurer |
Robert Chain Jr. |
The association is governed by elected officers and board members-at-large representing various regions: North, South, and Central Mississippi.
Board members-at-large serve specific regions across the state:
- North Mississippi
- South Mississippi
- Central Mississippi
The history of the Deaf community in Mississippi is deeply intertwined with the Mississippi School for the Deaf (MSD), which was established by the state legislature in 1854 in Jackson. MAD has continually evolved to support MSD and coordinate with other vital regional entities.
- MAD leadership has actively engaged with MSD superintendents to review and improve curricula, ensuring that students meet goals in reading, writing, and math while embracing their Deaf culture.
- The organization remains deeply involved in supporting the state's Deaf students, particularly through initiatives that foster language development and community unification.
- Mississippi School for the Deaf (MSD) — 1253 Eastover Dr, Jackson, MS 39211 — msdbk.org
- Mississippi Schools for the Deaf and the Blind (MSDB) — Jackson
- Mississippi Office on Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) — State agency advocating for policy and public coordination
- Mississippi Coast Association of the Deaf (MCAD) — Regional affiliate
- Bridges for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing — Regional organization
- Email: president@msassocdeaf.org
- Mail: Mississippi Association of the Deaf, P.O. Box 320122, Jackson, Mississippi 39232-0122
- Facebook: Mississippi Association of the Deaf