Founder

During International Week of Deaf People in September 2026, we’re excited to share “The Gallaudet Eleven: The Story of NASA’s Deaf Bioastronauts.”

Gallaudet Eleven partnered with NASA to study the effects of space travel on the body. Alvin Edward Steele was one of these remarkable Deaf men.

Alvin Edward Steele (1940–2003)

Educator • Leader • Advocate for the Deaf Community

Ed Steele was a respected educator and leader who devoted many years of his life to the Deaf community and to education.

Born in 1940, Ed Steele was a graduate of the Georgia School for the Deaf. He later continued his education at Gallaudet College, now known as Gallaudet University, one of the nation’s leading institutions serving Deaf and hard-of-hearing students.

After completing his education, Ed returned to the field of education and spent many years teaching English at the Georgia School for the Deaf. Through his teaching, he encouraged students to develop their communication skills, pursue their education, and prepare for successful lives beyond school. He was also a supervisor of the high school department.

Ed was also instrumental in establishing the Georgia School for the Deaf Alumni Association. His leadership helped bring former students together and strengthened the connections among generations of Georgia School for the Deaf alumni. His work extended beyond the classroom. Ed believed in the importance of community, friendship, education, and preserving the history and traditions of the Deaf community. His efforts helped create a lasting connection among alumni and friends of the school.

Ed Steele passed away in 2003, leaving behind a legacy of education, leadership, and service. His contributions to the Georgia School for the Deaf and its alumni continue
to be remembered by those whose lives he touched.

“A life of service leaves a legacy of inspiration.”

Ed was one of 11 Deaf men who helped NASA. (Deaf Difference + Space Survival Exhibit Video under Gallaudet Univ website.)
His name was Alvin Steele, but we knew him as Ed.

Special note of thanks to Lois Grizzard for the image of Ed Steele!