The Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Josh Sharpton as Executive Director of E. H. Gentry Facility (EHG). With over 23 years of experience in Deaf Education and 21 years of dedicated service to AIDB, Sharpton brings a wealth of professional expertise and significant accomplishments in the field of educational and rehabilitation services for individuals who are Deaf, Blind, and DeafBlind.

“Mr. Sharpton has shown a great deal of dedication to the mission of AIDB and the consumers we serve,” said Dennis Gilliam, Ed.D., President, AIDB. “From being a student at AIDB, a teacher, and then through administration, Mr. Sharpton has been a been an excellent role model to those who seek continuous improvement”

Most recently, Sharpton served as the Director of Deaf Services/DeafBlind Programs at EHG, a position he has held since October 2020. In June 2024, he was named Interim Executive Director of EHG, following the appointment of then-Executive Director Jessica Edmiston as AIDB’s Chief Adult Programs Officer. Prior to his tenure at EHG, Sharpton worked at his alma mater, Alabama School for the Deaf, where he served as an Educator and later as Director of the Career Technical and Education Department.

“Josh Sharpton has a proven history of work experience that illustrates the superior standard for which AIDB is accustomed. Additionally, his tenure exemplifies an understanding of not only the Deaf and DeafBlind communities, but the Blind community and respective culture,” said Jessica Edmiston, Chief Adult Programs Officer. “Mr. Sharpton has worked tirelessly to ensure partnership and collaboration with the communities previously referenced as well as AIDB K-12, AIDB Regional Centers, and other AIDB units along with other businesses and entities across the state. I have no doubt that his track record of success will continue as EHG Executive Director.”

Sharpton holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts from Gallaudet University, a Master of Science in Deaf Education from the University of Tennessee, and a Class A Certificate in Instructional Leadership from Jacksonville State University.

"I am honored to continue serving and leading E. H. Gentry, where our mission is to empower students who are Deaf, Blind, DeafBlind, or have other disabilities to achieve economic and personal independence. We are committed to equipping them with the tools needed to succeed and thrive in today’s society. At E. H. Gentry, we remain steadfast in breaking barriers and creating opportunities that transform lives," said Sharpton.

Sharpton will officially assume the role of Executive Director on January 2, 2025. He will work closely with the EHG staff and teams across AIDB to drive continued progress and create lasting impact for the individuals and communities served by EHG.