The Communication Service for the Deaf (CSD), a nonprofit organization committed to empowering Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, has announced the appointment of Brendan Gramer and Roberta Mather to its Board of Directors. This significant move aims to bolster the organization’s mission of enhancing accessibility and inclusivity.
Brendan Gramer, with a 16-year tenure at Amazon as UX Design Manager on the Payments team, brings a wealth of experience in accessible design. Known for his advocacy within Amazon’s Design Tools & Resources Working Group and AUX (Accessibility to the UX Design Community), Gramer has been instrumental in promoting accessibility, diversity, and inclusion initiatives. His leadership roles extend to being the Global President of AmazonPwD (People with Disabilities) affinity group, highlighting his commitment to representation and inclusivity for the Deaf community.
Gramer expressed his enthusiasm: "I am honored to join CSD’s Board of Directors. Throughout my journey, I’ve been passionate about breaking down barriers, pushing for access, and promoting inclusivity. I look forward to contributing to CSD’s mission of supporting the Deaf community." His advocacy work is further demonstrated through his involvement in various volunteer leadership roles, including the Hearing Loss Advisory Council of the Washington Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the Deaf Thrive Steering Committee.
Roberta Mather, with over two decades of experience in diplomacy and international relations, adds a diverse set of skills to the CSD Board. As the former Senior Advisor for Employee Communications with the U.S. Department of State, Mather managed communications for over 75,000 employees globally. Her expertise in Diversity of Thought, global equity, and the power of storytelling is internationally recognized. Mather’s passion for community service and her extensive background in marketing, graphic design, and branding further enhance her qualifications.
Mather shared her vision: "CSD is a beacon of the Deaf and inclusive entrepreneurship. I look forward to joining the board only to serve behind the scenes, witnessing innovation propel into the 22nd century in our lifetime."
Christopher Soukup, CEO of CSD, expressed his excitement about the new appointments: "We are thrilled to welcome Brendan Gramer and Roberta Mather to our board. Brendan’s expertise in accessible design and Roberta’s track record in effective communication will greatly enrich our board’s leadership as we continue to advocate for greater accessibility and inclusion."
The appointments of Gramer and Mather are poised to significantly impact CSD’s initiatives, providing fresh perspectives and expertise that will drive the organization’s mission forward. Both individuals bring a profound understanding of the challenges faced by the Deaf community and have demonstrated a strong commitment to advocating for greater accessibility and inclusivity.
For more information about CSD and its new board members, visit csd.org/about.
