The South Carolina School for the Deaf and the Blind welcomed a special guest on March 1, as Academy Award-winning actress and advocate for the deaf community, Marlee Matlin, made a visit to the school.

She spent the morning speaking with students, answering their questions, sharing her personal experiences, and inspiring them to pursue their dreams, no matter what obstacles they may face.

During her visit, Matlin took a tour of Walker Hall and the School for the Deaf. She encouraged students and teachers to embrace their unique identities and to use their voices to create positive change in the world.

Alasia Pifher, junior at the School for the Deaf, talks about getting the chance to meet Marlee Matlin at the event.

"I'm very, ready to graduate and get out into the real world, and just make something out of my life," Pifher said. "I was intrigued with the whole conversation [with Matlin]. Learning about her experience and the motivation she has, and not backing down to the stereotypes we [deaf community] have. It's tough out there, we know that, but just pursuing and getting that accomplishment betters yourself. Just do it, and don't back down.”