The North Dakota Association of the Deaf (NDAD) is a statewide, non-profit political and advocacy organization dedicated to serving the civil rights, accessibility needs, and interests of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community throughout North Dakota. It is classified as a Disabled People's Organisation (DPO).
NDAD was established in June 1916, making it one of the older state associations in the country. Since its founding, members have consistently used the legislative process as a lobbying tool to advance Deaf rights in North Dakota.
NDAD has a deep historical connection to the North Dakota School for the Deaf (NDSD) in Devils Lake, which was founded in 1890. In a landmark collaboration from 1992 to 1997, NDAD and NDSD worked together on the "Very Important Person (VIP)" landmark project, dedicating several campus buildings and landmarks in honor of historic employees and alumni who advanced Deaf education in the state.
NDAD is governed by an elected board and officers drawn from the local Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Historically, Michele Rolewitz has served as NDAD representative, including on advisory councils such as the NDSD Advisory Committee, ensuring that the voice of the Deaf community directly influences state programming.
NDAD has a long history of working alongside the NDSD and other organizations on state legislation. The organization has jointly supported bills related to interpreting access, Deaf education funding, and communication accessibility with the North Dakota Chapter of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.
NDAD does not maintain a public-facing website with current officer listings or a dedicated Facebook page. For contact, reach out through the NAD Regional IV representatives or the NDSD Advisory Committee.