Dr. Gerald Berent, Professor in the Department of Liberal Studies, has significantly advanced the field of language acquisition in deaf and hard of hearing individuals through his 36-year outstanding track record of research. His colleagues have noted that his work in this area has informed generations of both faculty and students. His efforts to understand the impact of secondary disabilities and ADHD on DHH students' abilities to learn effectively have been transformative. Dr. Berent’s creation of the Supporting English Acquisition (SEA) website has been a great contribution and tool for English language teachers everywhere. He has also shared his research findings and teaching methodologies through over 50 publications in refereed journals and book chapters, 25 technical reports and publications in newsletters and bulletins. He has also given over 66 presentations at national and international symposia/conferences. Dr. Berent has obtained several grants to further his research, totaling over $800K.

His colleagues have also noted that Dr. Berent's scholarship in English language acquisition in DHH students and his dedication to sharing and applying it in NTID classrooms and classrooms across the world is simply outstanding. His passion for the scholarly process and its role in Deaf education is limitless. In addition to his own research and publication, he dedicates countless hours supporting the scholarly efforts of others. In the role of advisor, mentor, reviewer, editor and NTID IRB committee chair, Dr. Berent tirelessly works to share his expertise and promote the work of other scholars. He demonstrates energy, enthusiasm and creativity, combined with a solid professional base of knowledge to empower his students.