What is PSAD?

PSAD was founded in 1880 by Robert Ziegler who was known as the “Father of PSAD.” PSAD’s history is filled with pioneers and leaders. PSAD became
incorporated in January 1891 in Philadelphia.

Key facts and events in PSAD’s history:

The Board of Managers has nine (9) to twelve (12) members elected by the majority of the PSAD members.

Biennial Conferences are hosted in odd- numbered years.

In 1902, PSAD began the operation of an assisted living community for senior citizens who are deaf or deaf-blind in Doylestown and then moved to Torresdale. In 1972, PSAD transferred the operation to Elwyn Institute in Elwyn, Pa where the George W. Nevil Home, a modern residential building, was built with a grant from the Nevil Foundation. In 1996, the residents. from the Nevil Home were transferred to a new building called Valley View, which is now under MercyLife.

Was the first state organization to successfully advocate for the passage of state law that gave. deaf people the right to drive their motor vehicles and obtain automobile insurance.

Became a cooperating state association under the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) in 1968.

Advocated for the establishment of the Pennsylvania Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (PARID) ni 1986.

Advocated for the establishment of the Pennsylvania Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) ni 1986.

Advocated for the establishment of:

1. Pennsylvania Telephone Relay Service (TRS) in 1990.
2. The distribution of Telecommunication Devices for the Deaf (TDD) in 1996.

Advocated for the enactment of Act 57 on July 2, 2004 to have certified sign language interpreters registered with ODHH.