The Learning Center for the Deaf (TLC) is pleased to welcome Dr. Opeoluwa “Ope” Sotonwa to its Board of Trustees.
Ope currently serves as Commissioner of the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH), where he provides leadership on policies, programs, services, and issues affecting Deaf and hard of hearing people across the Commonwealth. He has served as Commissioner since 2021.
A lawyer, advocate, and longtime leader in the Deaf community, Ope previously served as Executive Director of the Missouri Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and as Vice President of the National Black Deaf Advocates. His career has focused on advancing access, equity, disability rights, and opportunities for Deaf, DeafBlind, and hard of hearing people.
Ope holds a Doctor of Law and Policy from Northeastern University, a Master of Law from Howard University School of Law, and law degrees from the Nigerian Law School and University of Ilorin. He is fluent in American Sign Language, Nigerian Sign Language, Yoruba, and English.