Jean “Bunny” Gamble was recently reappointed by former Gov. Don Siegelman to the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind Board of Trustees.

This is Gamble’s second term to serve on the board, and she said it has been a wonderful experience.

“I have really enjoyed serving on the board,” Gamble said. “The people I work with and the faculty members have worked hard to make it one of the most premier institutes in the country.”

Gamble, who is the vice-chair of the personnel committee, first began serving on the board in 1997. She also served on the Selma City School Board of Education for 12 years before joining the institute.

The AIDB is composed of five campuses throughout Talladega, including four schools and a manufacturing facility that employs people who are physically disabled in some way.

“In our industry, employees do a lot of sewing for the military and they make beautiful bird houses and other wooden items,” Gamble said. “AIDB also runs stores on military bases, handling the supplies for our troops.”

AIDB schools provide a comprehensive education program and rehabilitation system for both children and adults who are deaf, blind, and multidisabled.

“We accept students at any age, starting at the pre-school level,” Gamble said. “There are three faculty members per child, so these students receive the care they need to have a successful life.”

AIDB also boasts a health care facility, a special equestrian program, and eight regional centers which provide a wide range of services to seniors and parents with handicapped children.

“I am amazed everyday by what these people can do,” Gamble said. “The schools do an excellent job in helping these students become self-sufficient.”

Gamble also said AIDB is trying to establish junior colleges across the country for people who are handicapped.

“This will be our opportunity to reach out to people in need across the country and show others what we are capable of,” she said.

Gamble and her husband, William, have lived in Selma for 36 years. Both are actively involved in their church and community. Jean Gamble was once involved with Leadership Alabama.

“I am very proud of the AIDB schools,” Gamble said. “If it wasn’t for my friends and family encouraging me, I may not have ever accepted the position.”

Gamble will continue to serve on the board until Nov. 30, 2008.