Conference CoChairs

DeMarco Pittman
DeMarco Pittman is a Black Deaf Atlantan hailing From 9th generation Deaf family, with both parents, siblings, nieces, and cousins who are all Deaf. This strong support system has greatly influenced his journey. A graduate of Georgia State University with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, he made history as the university’s first Deaf Homecoming King and completed his studies in just two years.
Born in Atlanta,Ga and raised in Clayton County, DeMarco attended Suder Elementary, Mundy’s Mill Middle School, and Jonesboro High School, where he received scholarships and played on the football team. He served as a Digital Coordinator for Stacey Abrams’ 2022 gubernatorial campaign. In 2021, he became the Regional III (South) Youth Representative for the National Association of the Deaf, and his proposal on addressing Deaf youth mental health was recognized as a top priority. He has also been selected to serve on the Youth General Assembly for the 2024 NAD conference.
DeMarco graduated with an MBA from Jackson State University and will begin his Doctor of Business Administration studies in December 2024. He aims to achieve success in his endeavors, attain financial stability, and become a strong mentor, guiding students to actively engage in their own education.
DeMarco is also the first Black Deaf sports reporter for Sign1News, making a significant impact in the field.
Currently, DeMarco focuses on sharing his passion for educational success, emphasizing that deafness is not a disability, but part of the journey toward achieving goals. He stresses the importance of setting realistic short- and long-term goals and working hard to achieve them. Additionally, he volunteers as the treasurer for the Georgia Association of the Deaf.
Forward to Conference 2025 Community: It’s going to be awesome, showcasing diverse styles related to energy, the environment, and Georgia culture! The event will be held in Atlanta, and I’m bringing high energy and a positive vibe—let’s enjoy it!

Makoto Ikegami, DSW, LCSW – Co-Chairperson, GAD Conference 2025
Makoto Ikegami is a licensed clinical social worker and the co-chairperson for the 2025 Georgia Association of the Deaf (GAD) Conference. With over 17 years of experience in social work, Makoto has dedicated his career to promoting mental health and advocating for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (DHH) communities. He is the owner and lead psychotherapist at Deaf Multicultural Counseling, LLC, providing culturally competent therapy services to individuals across multiple states.
Makoto, with a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) from Walden University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Gallaudet University, is both a practitioner and an educator. His extensive expertise, including leadership in strategic visioning, business development, and improving service accessibility for DHH individuals, is shared with future social workers as a Senior Adjunct at Gallaudet University and an Academic Associate at Arizona State University.
As co-chairperson of the GAD Conference 2025, themed “Ignite, Unite, Transform: Empowering Excellence,” Makoto uses his leadership and advocacy skills to foster collaboration, education, and innovation within the DHH communities. His passion for mental health, education, and community empowerment is reflected in his work as an educator, clinician, and advocate.
As the President of the American Deafness and Rehabilitation Association (ADARA), Makoto is a critical figure in shaping policies and initiatives that support the advancement of DHH communities nationwide. His leadership is also evident in his involvement in initiatives like the Deaf Motivational Enhancement Therapy (Deaf-MET) project, which addresses mental health and substance abuse in the Deaf population.
Makoto’s commitment to empowering excellence in the DHH communities aligns with GAD’s mission, and he looks forward to making the 2025 conference a platform for growth, leadership, and transformation.