Nyle DiMarco Engages K-State Students with Insights from "Deaf Utopia"

Nyle Dimarco shares his life experiences with a small group of students in the Beach Museum of Art. Courtesy: Dawson Wagner

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Nyle DiMarco, a renowned Deaf actor, producer, advocate, and author, captivated audiences at Kansas State University on Wednesday, Oct. 16, with a lecture centered around his memoir, "Deaf Utopia." The event, held at McCain Auditorium, was part of the university's K-State First Book program, which selected DiMarco's book as the 2024 common read.

Before taking the stage for his public lecture, DiMarco met with a small group of students at the Beach Museum of Art to discuss his life and experiences. During these discussions, he shared personal insights into navigating a world designed for hearing individuals. "I think it's a really good question to talk about," DiMarco said, reflecting on the impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and its evolution since its passage in 1991.

DiMarco's memoir offers readers a deep dive into his upbringing as one half of a pair of Deaf twins in a multi-generational Deaf family from Queens, New York. His story provides a unique perspective on Deaf culture and identity, resonating with many in the K-State community. "I'm so excited Nyle will be on campus," said Tara Coleman, K-State First Book coordinator. "I truly enjoyed the book and I'm excited to hear the story from his perspective."

In these intimate discussions with students, DiMarco emphasized the importance of engaging with literature that is both intelligible and immersive. "I loved that structure," he remarked. "I loved the thread sort of came from history... But, yeah, honestly, I highly recommend this book. It's one of my favorites."

The selection of "Deaf Utopia" aims to foster campus-wide conversations about accessibility and inclusivity. Mariya Vaughan, assistant director of K-State First, emphasized the significance of DiMarco's visit: "Nyle's visit provides opportunities for students and many in our community to have a shared experience connected to Nyle himself and to his book."

The K-State First Book is an all-university reading initiative that encourages incoming students to engage with faculty and peers through a shared literary experience. More details about tickets and additional programming can be found at https://www.k-state.edu/first/