The Kennedy Center has been so important to our family. Our son Seth who is now 25 was born with Williams syndrome, which presents both physical and cognitive challenges. The programs at the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center have focused on Seth’s abilities and highlighted his talents. Seth has participated for the past 9 years in a music camp for individuals with Williams syndrome, which takes place in Nashville at the Kennedy Center with the campers writing and performing a song at the Grand Ole Opry and participating in research during the week. It has been transformative for Seth and he has made life-long friends through these amazing opportunities.

Becky and Chris Link - Parents

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We study the neural bases of cognitive and social impairments in persons with schizophrenia, but to determine the etiology of these problems, it is abundantly clear that we must look at developmental antecedents. Neurocognitive and social changes during adolescence are crucial because this is the period during which the behavioral signs of psychosis emerge, and this is when we can intervene with a maximal impact. We also are aware that many developmental disabilities lead to psychiatric problems in adulthood, but that these difficulties are not yet adequately addressed. The VKC is a truly unique and rich source of research support and information, and also of ideas and inspiration. The network of research and clinical labs connected with the Center has provided us with opportunities for new innovative collaborations with broader societal impact. For example, we have successfully implemented a computerized brain training program for pediatric cancer survivors with the Compas lab. We are currently implementing a novel virtual reality intervention with the Sarkar Lab, and we are in our third year of examining the cognitive consequences of music training in 'at-risk' children with colleagues at Peabody Research Institute, Chapman and Morrison.

Sohee Park, Ph.D. - Psychology and Psychiatry

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The VKC has become a home to my family in the few short years since my daughter’s birth. We’ve benefited in countless ways from its research, professional training (I was a LEND Family Trainee), workshops, and other community programs. I also have the opportunity to learn and give back to the Center as part of the Community Advisory Council and the Public Policy Committee. The VKC has been an incredible resource to me as a parent but has also been critical in my development as a professional, helping me to become a voice for other families through special education advocacy. From both perspectives, I cannot overstate the importance of the Center’s role in creating more meaningful and productive lives for people like my daughter, and I am proud to be part of an organization that continues to lead this charge both locally and nationally.

Christine Sartain - Parent, LEND Trainee, and Disability Advocate

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Recently a mother shared with me that over four decades ago she gave birth to a baby girl with Down syndrome. The medical staff and others strongly encouraged her to give her daughter over to an institution as it was the best option at the time. While in the hospital a social worker from the Kennedy Center discussed services and resources available to her if she chose to keep her child in her care. As a result of their conversation she decided to raise her child with the support of her family and this Center. This family is currently thriving in their community. To work somewhere that touches people’s lives on such an incredible level is an experience I am very fortunate to be part of.

Sarah Harvey - VKC Disability Professional

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