Worldwide Business with kathy ireland®
March 12, 2021
No Comments
Bensman’s K-12 years were shaped by support, structure, and the Deaf program that helped him become an independent and confident communicator. Interpreters were a daily part of life, guiding him in almost every classroom setting. Recess and gym became opportunities to connect through movement, expression, and nonverbal understanding. Like many Deaf students in mainstream education, Bensman learned by observing, adapting, and finding creative ways to communicate with hearing peers. Those early experiences became the foundation of his self-advocacy, social confidence, and independence.
After spending his entire childhood immersed in hearing environments, Bensman discovered Gallaudet University during his senior year of high school, which opened a door he did not know he needed. Gallaudet offered something priceless: a connection to Deaf culture, Deaf identity, and a community where communication was not a barrier.
Motivated by his passion for sports, Bensman pursued a degree in Physical Education and Recreation with a minor in Sports Management. Clear communication access and a structured athletic program, especially under his baseball coaches’ guidance, helped him stay on track and succeed academically.
Growing up, sports were always part of his life, but baseball held something deeper. Baseball combined strategy, patience, emotion, and skill in a way no other sport could. For him, baseball also offered a rare kind of freedom. Baseball was not a sport that demanded constant verbal communication; the game allowed instinct, awareness, and talent to guide play.
Being part of USA Deaf Baseball is more than an athletic achievement; being selected to be on the team is a dream realized. The opportunity to compete, travel, meet other Deaf athletes, and explore cultures worldwide is deeply meaningful. Every trip, every game, every new experience becomes a memory that fuels Bensman’s passion.
Today, Bensman drives a Mobile Unit Bus that brings essential resources directly to communities. The surprise reactions he receives when people realize their driver is Deaf only fuel his confidence. Every interaction becomes an opportunity to show what Deaf individuals are capable of when given the chance.
Deafness has brought challenges, including communication barriers and the need for constant advocacy. The exhaustion of correcting misconceptions, educating others, and navigating a hearing-centered world is real. Yet the positives shine brighter. Deafness has been a source of identity, connection, pride, and cultural belonging. Deafness has shaped how Bensman communicates, observes, and understands others. Deafness is not a limitation; deafness is one of Bensman’s greatest strengths.
Bensman’s advice is simple and powerful: Never give up. Stay patient. Stay resilient. Be bold with your dreams. Great things come to those who keep pushing, even when the path feels uphill. Anything is possible with the right determination.
The legacy he wants to build is one of perseverance, passion, and possibilities. Achieving his dream is proof that others can achieve theirs too. Bensman also hopes to help revitalize baseball within the Deaf community. With many schools phasing out baseball programs, he wants to be part of the movement that keeps the sport alive for future Deaf athletes. His journey is a reminder that Deaf athletes do not just play the game, they redefine the game. They bring grit, heart, culture, and unwavering pride to the field. And with each swing of the bat, Bensman carries the hope of inspiring the next generation to chase their dreams with everything they have.
Explore more stories like Mitchell Bensman’s in Safe’N’Clear’s community engagement work and the Emerging Deaf Leader Series, featuring Deaf individuals building careers, communities, and legacies across every field.
Related Emerging Deaf Leader profiles: Britny Bensman, Deaf LPN · Lindsey Guevel, Deaf ICU Nurse · Nicole Fleming, Deaf Nurse Leader
