As I begin my first academic year as dean of NTID, I am grateful for the warm welcome I have received from faculty, staff, and students across our community. It’s an honor to join a college known for its creativity, innovation, academic excellence, and deep commitment to our students. I look forward to working with all of you to support student success and strengthen our academic programs as we continue creating opportunities that prepare our students to learn and thrive.

New Signers Program students wrapped up a whirlwind two-and-a-half-week intensive journey before fall semester began. With the expert guidance of Tyler Bazzi and Marguerite Carrillo, this motivated group transformed very limited prior knowledge into newfound confidence, successfully earning four credits in ASL. Beyond the classroom, they dove deep into Deaf culture, balancing rigorous study with exciting cultural excursions—including a fun-filled visit to the Strong Museum of Play and a breathtaking hike at Letchworth State Park. Congratulations to all our students for their incredible dedication and hard work!

The Summer Vestibule Program (SVP) began on August 9 for incoming first-year and transfer students enrolled in an NTID associate degree program, associate-to-bachelor’s degree program, pre-baccalaureate program, or Career Exploration Studies. Throughout the program, students participated in interactive sessions, small-group activities, and recreational events designed to help them become familiar with campus resources and life at RIT/NTID while building connections with fellow students, faculty, and staff.
 
This year’s SVP brought an unexpected adventure. Power outages, temporary housing adjustments, and schedule changes required flexibility from everyone involved. Despite these challenges, SVP students demonstrated remarkable resilience, adaptability, and positive attitudes. They continued to engage fully in program activities, support one another, and make the most of their experience here at RIT/NTID.

The dedication and teamwork of SVP staff, NTID administration, faculty, staff, and support personnel were pivotal in navigating these unexpected circumstances. Together, they responded quickly, found creative solutions, and ensured that students continued to have a positive and meaningful transition to college life.

In addition to their academic and community-building experiences, students enjoyed two off-campus recreational events at a Red Wings baseball game and Seabreeze Amusement Park. These events provided opportunities for students to relax, have fun, and socialize with their peers before the start of their first semester here at RIT/NTID.

Overall, SVP was a great success, helping students build confidence, connections, and a sense of belonging as they begin their college journey. We are especially grateful to the parents and families who entrusted us with their students during this important transition. We appreciate their trust and partnership as we welcomed the newest members of the RIT/NTID Tigers community.

We are grateful to faculty member Laural Hartman, senior lecturer in the Visual and Communications Studies department, and the group of students she worked with to create the awesome new mural in the former Dining Commons space. We appreciate all the work that went into this project and think you’ll agree that it brings some new life to that space!