CAL-ED/IMPACT Conference

 Unlocking Hidden Treasures

 In loving memory we dedicate this year’s conference to

Dr. Barbara MacNeil

  March 11-13, 2005

Irvine  Marriott

Irvine, California

Sponsored by GLAD, CODIE, and LIFESIGNS

In Memory of Dr. Barbara MacNeil

By Jean Ching

     Dr. Barbara MacNeil, an outstanding educator and administrator for deaf and hard of hearing children in San Diego City Schools, passed away on January 9th, 2005.  However, her dedication and commitment to quality education for deaf and hard of hearing children reached far across the country.  She advocated for programs that would provide equal opportunities for children no matter what educational mode was utilized.  Dr. MacNeil, who herself had a profound hearing loss, understood the challenges of the children and championed for them.  In addition, she championed for the parents and the teachers of these children as well.

     Dr. MacNeil was born and raised in San Diego.  Even as a student, she exhibited those qualities that she became so well known for as a leader at local, state, and national levels.  She earned a Bachelor's degree in English and a Master's degree in speech pathology and audiology from San Diego State University.  Dr. MacNeil received her Doctorate degree in education at the University of Southern California with an emphasis on curriculum and instruction.  She began her career in San Diego schools as a special education teacher and also served as a school psychologist before becoming an administrator.

     Dr. MacNeil belonged to and was very active in numerous professional organizations.  She was a member of the Alexander Graham Bell Association/Public School Caucus.  She was past president of the California Educators of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CAL-ED, formerly known as CATHI) who recognized her with their "Outstanding Administrator" award in 2000.  She also received the George Attletweed award from the IMPACT parent organization in 1993.  She was past chair of the Low Incidence Disability Advisory Committee.  She also participated in the Conference of Educational Administrators of Schools and Programs for the Deaf, and the Division of Early Childhood of the Council for Exceptional Children.

     A private funeral service was held for Dr. MacNeil on January 14th and a public memorial took place on January 29th with over four hundred in attendance and twenty-five speakers.

Her indomitable spirit will be missed and many of those who knew her have pledged to carry on her quest for excellence for deaf and hard of hearing children. 

Pictures from the event:

Key Note Richard Peterson's presentation was well received and requested to be made available.

Friday night Key Note Paul Ogden started everyone off with thoughts from The Silent Garden, and beyond

Exhibits to fill a wide range of interests. 

The children's program enjoyed a visit to the Science Center.