A delegation from Bauman Moscow State Technical University, and PEN-International visited the Center for the Deaf at Vladimir State University to discuss the university joining with Bauman and other universities to form PEN-Russia. The delegation met with officials of the university as well as with the mayor of the city, representatives of the regional government and the regional representative of the All Russia Federation of the Deaf. In addition, the delegation presented to an assembly of deaf students studying at the university. Approximately 60 students attended the presentation. The delegation also met informally with students and attended classes for students who are deaf at the university. Further, the delegation attended the baccalaureate thesis defense of three deaf students of the university. Finally, the delegation visited a local school for deaf.

It was determined that VSU would be an excellent partner in the PEN-Russia program and a memorandum of understanding was signed to pursue a formal relationship. Final arrangements will be made at the June Technology Symposium at NTID that will be attended by a delegation from VSU.