Pride was diagnosed with profound hearing loss shortly after birth. He was an avid athlete throughout his childhood, but he especially excelled on the baseball field. Debuting in the major leagues with the Montreal Expos in 1993, Pride went on to play for several different teams including the New York Yankees, the Atlanta Braves, and the Boston Red Sox, before retiring in 2006. Pride has coached the Gallaudet University baseball team since 2008.

“Through his successful playing career and work to motivate others with hearing loss, particularly children, to chase their dreams, Curtis is a wonderful example for others to follow,” said Ed Keller, founder and president of the HearStrong Foundation. “We’re thrilled to call him a HearStrong Champion.”

This ceremony marked the second time the foundation celebrated representatives of Gallaudet. The HearStrong Foundation reports that in 2013, it recognized the university’s football team as HearStrong Champions following its record-setting season and first ever Eastern Collegiate Football Conference championship win.

The HearStrong Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that seeks to shatter the stereotypes surrounding hearing loss by honoring the accomplishments of those who have overcome hearing loss and inspire others to do the same. Supported by EarQ providers, the foundation is a worldwide advocate for hearing loss awareness, education, and support.