The Commission of Deaf, DeafBlind & Hard of Hearing Minnesotans is delighted to announce that Valerie Shirley has been appointed as a Commission board member by Governor Mark Dayton.

Shirley is a community activist who is passionate about helping individuals who are underprivileged reach their true potential. She is a mother of 5, including a deaf son. She holds a Masters in Deaf Education and is currently working as a teacher of the deaf and hard of hearing. she is a co-founder of the Minnesota Deaf Muslim Community (MDMC), a small nonprofit committed to ensuring access to effective communication for individuals who are deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing. 

Shirley also serves on the Collaborative Plan, a network of organizations who work together to improve educational experiences and outcomes for students who are deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing.

"I'm really excited to serve on a board with so many individuals who are passionate about the success of individuals who are Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing," said Shirley. Executive Director Mary Hartnett adds, "With her knowledge in the field of deaf education, representation of a diverse community, and raising a Deaf child, Valerie will be able to share valuable input with our board."  

[Image description: Shirley is smiling and facing the camera. She is wearing a black and white top and a red and yellow striped hijab.]