Posted July 8, 2026

On behalf of the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) Board Elections Committee, I am pleased to congratulate the newly elected and continuing members of the NAD Board of Directors.

• Stephanie Hakulin, President (2026–2028)
• Jenny Buechner, Vice President (2026–2028)
• Jacob Leffler, Secretary (2026–2028)
• Octavio Cuenca Maldonado, Treasurer (2026–2028)
• Vacant, Region I Representative (2026–2028)
• Thomas W. Minch, Region I Representative (2026–2030)
• Katy Hagmeyer, Region II Representative (2026–2028)
• Vacant, Region II Representative (2026–2030)
• DeAnna Swope, Region III Representative (2024–2028)
• Joseph “Ari” Latino, Region III Representative (2026–2030)
• Joseph “JoJo” Lopez III, Region IV Representative (2024–2028)
• Jack Z. Ludwig, Region IV Representative (2026-2030)

We extend our best wishes to each of you as you begin your service and leadership on behalf of the Deaf community. Your dedication, experience, and commitment to advancing the NAD’s mission are deeply appreciated, and we look forward to the important work ahead.

I also want to express my sincere appreciation to the NAD Board Elections Committee for your hard work, diligence, and professionalism throughout the election process. Your commitment to ensuring a fair, transparent, and successful election helped make this process possible.

Congratulations once again to all of the newly elected board members, and best wishes for a productive and impactful term.

Melissa Draganac Hawk, Chair
NAD Board Elections Committee