Our Story
In 2019, the Diane Grunewald Foundation was founded to commemorate Diane’s lifelong dedication to supporting deaf and hard of hearing youth.
In her role as an audiologist for the Southwest Metro School Districts, Diane was a warm, caring, and compassionate advocate for her students. Her humor and evident passion for her work made her loved by coworkers and students alike. Diane was a true advocate for the needs of her students at both school and home. She went above and beyond every day and made it a priority to establish and maintain relationships with her students and their families.
When Diane died unexpectedly, her friends, family, and students experienced a hole in their lives. The Diane Grunewald Foundation was created in her honor to keep her spirit alive and continue the work that was so important
to her.
The resources that come to the Foundation go directly to providing scholarships and funding to enhance the day to day living and educational experience of deaf and hard of hearing children and young adults.
Mission
To financially support students who are deaf and hard of hearing by providing resources to pursue
post-secondary
educational opportunities.
To provide equipment to aid children and young adults who are deaf and hard of hearing.
To increase awareness and financial support to advance the mission of the Diane Gruenwald “Hear for Diane” Foundation.
Leadership
Pamela Hursh, RN, MBA
President of the Board
Pam, a close friend of Diane's and registered nurse, proudly serves as the Foundation Board President. With over 39 years in health insurance, she understands the challenges families face without adequate coverage for essential services and equipment. Pam values the Foundation's unrestricted grants and scholarships, ensuring it can fill critical gaps in support whenever needed.
Abby Grunewald
Secretary of the Board
Abby, Diane's daughter, cherishes her mother's dedication to the deaf and hard of hearing. Inspired by Diane's legacy of compassionate support, Abby is actively involved with the Foundation, honoring her mother's memory. She appreciates every donor and volunteer who sustains the Foundation, knowing Diane would deeply appreciate their commitment.
Marianne Feely, RN
Treasurer of the Board
Marianne, Diane's older sister, was raised in a family where community service was paramount. As an RN and community education coordinator, she's witnessed the challenges people face and the impact of supportive communities. Marianne sees the Foundation as a tribute to Diane, fostering care and support within the community in her memory.
Steve Grunewald
Founding Board Member
Steve, Diane's husband, established the Diane Grunewald Foundation to honor her legacy of supporting the deaf and hard of hearing. As a 501(c)(3) organization, it proudly aids multiple school districts with grants, scholarships, and essential services. The Foundation's growth reflects Steve's dedication to continuing Diane's impactful work in their community.
Ben Grunewald
Founding Board Member
Ben, Diane's son, is deeply inspired by the Foundation's continuation of her lifelong dedication to the deaf and hard of hearing community. Supporting Diane's former students holds personal significance for him, emphasizing the Foundation's impact. Ben gratefully acknowledges all contributions that sustain the organization and its mission in honoring his mother's legacy.
Keven Aasgaard
Board Member
Kevin, a longtime friend of the Grunewald’s, understands the significance of confidence in life from his sales career. Witnessing children gain confidence through new hearing aids and scholarships deeply rewards him. As a dedicated board member focused on fundraising, Kevin is committed to advancing the Foundation's vision with passion and purpose.
Chris Hansen
Board Member
Chris, a retired special education advocate who collaborated with Diane in supporting deaf and hard of hearing students, resonates deeply with the mission of the Diane Grunewald Foundation. She champions the Foundation's efforts to bridge gaps in youth support, ensuring all students achieve their goals through education, equipment funding, and community empowerment initiatives.
Sara Nelson, MALEd
Board Member
Sara, who worked with Diane for a decade as a teacher for the deaf and hard of hearing, appreciates the Foundation's focus on amplification, culturally rich classroom supplies, and ongoing education for students with hearing loss. She finds fulfillment in contributing to the community Diane cherished, both professionally and through the Foundation.
Carrie Rittenhouse
Board Member
Carrie Rittenhouse is a 4th grade teacher and channels her passion for education and advocacy into empowering deaf and hard of hearing youth. Inspired by Diane's legacy and personal experiences, Carrie believes in equipping every student with opportunities to thrive, bridging gaps and nurturing futures through dedicated support and outreach within the community.
Courtney Stone, Au.D.
Board Member
Courtney, an audiologist, offers technical expertise and guidance to the board, inspired by Diane's dedicated advocacy for the deaf and hard of hearing community. Diane's legacy inspires Courtney and fellow audiologists to exceed expectations. Courtney finds it a privilege to support the Foundation in breaking barriers for students and young adults, empowering them for the future.
“The Foundation takes a slice of Diane’s love and drive and continues to put that care into the world.”
— Sara Nelson, Board Member, Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing