UDC’s Board of Directors meets 10 times a year on the 2nd Monday of every month at 5:00 pm at the Salt Lake City Downtown Harmon's at 135 East 100 South. Meetings are called to order at 5:30 pm. The public is welcome to join. Occasionally, the UDC Board may meet virtually or in other locations.
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A proud native of Utah and a second-generation "Deaf Camper," Brad has spent his entire life immersed in the outdoor adventures that the stunning Utah wilderness has to offer. From a young age, he developed a deep passion for nature and the outdoors, an interest that has remained a central part of his life. After decades of outdoor exploration and activity, Brad chose to settle down with his wife and their three triplet sons. Although family life became his priority, the call of the wilds never faded from his heart. He has longed to reconnect with the natural world and share his wealth of experiences and knowledge with his family and the broader Deaf community. As he introduces his sons to outdoor life, Brad hopes to pass on the traditions of Deaf Camping, aiming to inspire them to become the third generation of campers in his family. Brad’s dedication to service and community is what led him to the Utah Deaf Campers. For him, this organization is more than just a cause—it’s a path to give back to the community that has shaped his life and a way to inspire others to enjoy the outdoors in a supportive, inclusive environment.
Cindy Russell brings over 30 years of camping experience to Utah Deaf Campers and has previously served as a chairperson for various camping events. Her deep passion for the outdoors and community has made her a beloved and active member within the deaf camping network across the Western states. Cindy has attended and camped in several states including Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado, and she has enjoyed exploring iconic destinations like Yellowstone National Park and Bear Lake. Her favorite camping activities include socializing around the campfire, cooking hearty meals, and playing cornhole with friends. Beyond camping, Cindy enjoys horseback riding, spelunking (cave exploring), and white-water rafting—always seeking the next adventure. Since 2016, she has been actively involved with Western States Deaf Campers, further strengthening her connection and commitment to the deaf camping community. Cindy is excited to serve as Treasurer for Utah Deaf Campers and is dedicated to supporting the growth and success of future events and initiatives.
Ronald Heinrich's professional journey is marked by impressive achievements. He retired after a successful 35-year career as a warehouse worker, following five years as a mechanic. His dedication to his craft is evident in his graduation from Utah Tech School with an associate's degree in mechanics. His time at Hill Air Force Base Warehouses was marked by the acquisition of Hazmat, Air Force Academy, and Speed Overseas Shipping certifications, further highlighting his commitment to professional growth. Ronald Heinrich's dedication to his work and community is truly inspiring. He has been a member or officer of numerous clubs, including the Utah Deaf Campers. His adeptness at organization and club management is a testament to his passion. Beyond his organizational roles, he served as the Boy Scouts of America Scout Master for four years. His commitment to serving his friends and members of the deaf communities in Utah and nationally is unwavering, a true testament to his character. Ronald Heinrich's love for outdoor sports is palpable. He has been an avid skier his whole life, both on snow and in water. His enthusiasm extends to extreme outdoor sports, such as K2 ascent and back-country skiing. His involvement in overseeing several events at the 2007 Winter Deaflympics in Park City and Salt Lake City is a clear reflection of his passion. He even joins his brother, a world-class rock climber, to explore nearby rock climbing hotspots. His favorite stores, REI Co-Op and Black Diamond, are a testament to his dedication to his hobbies.
Heidi Gaudette is a Utah native through and through. Heidi attended Utah Schools for The Deaf via the mainstream program. After graduating from Ben Lomond High School, she went to Weber State University to major in accounting. In 1983, she left college to get married. Shortly after, she started a lifelong career in the federal government as a USPS Mail carrier. Her proud accomplishments include working with her husband raising six children (3 daughters and three sons), winning the Miss Deaf Utah Pageant 1981-1983, sharing her love for making crafts with people she knows, and retiring from 43 years of carrying mail for USPS. She is passionate about traveling to different countries all over the world. Now that Heidi is retired, she loves making crafts during her free time with her grandkids, including Tila bracelets to match her clothes and theirs. Nothing tickles her fancy more than eating delicious sushi, dark chocolate, and travel.
Norman Reese went to Skyview High School and graduated in 1973. He loves working with wood so much that he has devoted most of his life to working as a finish and rough carpenter. With that, he has built cabinets for five years for a cabinet manufacturing company in Ogden. He built houses for another local construction company for five years. He spent the rest of his carpentry career at ATK (now Cordant Technologies) for about 30 years. He received many accolades for his work ethic, excellence, and for going the extra mile for his employers. Just before retirement, a commendation award from ATK was given to him for his 30 years of work and excelling as a Janitor and Carpenter at ATK. He participated and served in many deaf clubs and community service projects among his deaf peers. He played in many deaf club sports events, mainly softball and basketball. He is an avid outdoorsman. He excels at hunting big game and fishing. He loves exploring trails throughout Utah, including Moab, with his ATV. His passion is making woodcrafts for his family and friends in his wood shop.
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