Ms. Matlin is an internationally acclaimed deaf actress who has appeared in countless movies and television roles. At age 21 she became the youngest recipient of the Best Actress Oscar for her role in Children of a Lesser God. She has also received the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Drama.

She is also a noted author and producer. Ms. Matlin received an honorary doctorate of humane letters degree from Gallaudet in 1987. She was appointed by President Clinton in 1994 to the Corporation for National Service and served as chair of National Volunteer Week. She currently serves on the boards of several charitable organizations and is the national spokesperson for The American Red Cross.