Governor Kathleen Sebelius has appointed three new members to the Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing to advocate on behalf of the deaf community.

“This commission ensures state services and resources are accessible to all Kansans,” Sebelius said.

Teresa Sturgeon, Olathe, an experienced sign language interpreter, is a graduate of Johnson County Community College where she also works.

Kimberly Symansky, Olathe, graduated with a master’s degree in early childhood/deaf and hard of hearing education from Gallaudet University in Washington D.C. and currently volunteers at public schools helping students who are deaf and hard of hearing.

Kimberly Weidler, Lecompton, worked for nearly a decade in Louisiana Deaf Action Centers and is currently a self-employed sign language interpreter.

The Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH) is a state agency authorized to work with other organizations throughout Kansas to assure coordination and availability of services for people who are deaf and hard of hearing.

The mission of the Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is to advocate for and facilitate equal access to quality, coordinated and comprehensive services that enhance the quality of life for Kansans who are deaf and hard of hearing.