Gerilee Gustason was deafened by spinal meningitis at the age of six. After attending public schools in Nebraska and California, she entered the University of California at Riverside, graduating with a B.A. in English. Three Masters' degrees followed (in English, Education of the Deaf, and administration and Supervision). She has taught deaf students at the Virginia School for the Deaf, Gallaudet College, and in public day classes in Southern California. A Ph.D. in Education was awarded by the University of Southern California in 1972. She has served as Professor and Chair of the Department of Education at Gallaudet College.