About Us | National Center For

About Us

The National Center for Deaf Services (NCDS) was founded with a clear purpose: to advocate for equal access, empower the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, and create pathways to independence. We believe that everyone deserves access to meaningful education, employment, and mental health resources—without communication barriers.

At NCDS, we are committed to:

Comprehensive Support – Offering career readiness, mental health services, and educational programs that foster personal and professional growth.
Advocacy – Ensuring equal opportunities and accessibility in all areas of life.
Empowerment – Equipping individuals with the skills, confidence, and resources to thrive.

Through strong community partnerships, we provide Life Skills training, career development, and mental health services through the WV Division of Rehabilitation Services. Additionally, we offer ASL courses in collaboration with the WV Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, helping families, friends, and professionals build meaningful connections through sign language.

As we continue to grow, NCDS remains dedicated to expanding services, breaking down barriers, and advocating for a more inclusive world.

Meet the Team

Meet the passionate individuals driving our mission forward.

Christine Firkins, EdD

Founder and Executive Director

Christine Firkins is the Founder and Executive Director of NCDS. With a background in Deaf Deaf Studies, Deaf Education, and consulting on business accessibility, she leads NCDS in providing life skills training, career readiness, mental health support, ASL courses, community education, and workshops for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.

Jean Marie Hunter-Suddreth, LMFT

Program Clinician & Life Skills Specialist

Jean Marie Hunter-Suddreth is a Program Clinician & Life Skills Specialist at NCDS, providing mental health services, independent living support, and career readiness training for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. With over 24 years of experience in mental health, she specializes in counseling, advocacy, and equipping individuals with the skills needed for success.

Keith Simmerman

Life & Career Readiness Specialist

Keith Simmerman is a Life and Career Readiness Specialist at NCDS, providing life skills and career readiness training for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. With a background in IT and accessibility, he is passionate about connecting individuals with the tools and resources needed for success.

Hal Hunter-Suddreth

Life & Career Readiness Specialist

Hal Hunter-Suddreth is a Life and Career Readiness Specialist at NCDS, helping Deaf individuals develop essential life skills for independent living and employment. With a deep understanding of ADA compliance and accessibility, he empowers clients to navigate their careers and daily lives with confidence.

Our Board

The NCDS Board of Directors is dedicated to advancing accessibility, education, and career development for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. Comprised of leaders with expertise in advocacy, mental health, and community support, our board provides strategic guidance to ensure NCDS delivers impactful programs.

Erik Essington, PhD