Martin, May

Reportedly the first deaf woman to earn a master's degree, from Gallaudet College in 1900. She was also Gallaudet's first deaf woman instructor, accepting a job teaching English there after she graduated the school in 1895. Born in New York City; deaf from scarlet fever at age 7. Attended the New York School for the Deaf (Fanwood) for 12 years, then entered Gallaudet in 1891 as one of the first female students there. Co-founder of the O.W.L.S., which later became the Delta Zeta sorority. Also co-founded the student newspaper, The Buff and Blue, and also wrote for The Silent Worker. Left Gallaudet and teaching in 1900 to marry a man surnamed Stafford and raise a family. Died of a weak heart.