Reflections
As part of the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center's 50th anniversary celebration, families, researchers, staff, trainees, and others shared their reflections. View a sample below, and select "more" to view additional comments.
| A reflection from a family |
 | My daughter Jeanne, age 25 with Down syndrome, has been involved with the Kennedy Center since her early years. Because of the efforts of the Kennedy Center to develop the first postsecondary two-year educational program in Tennessee at Vanderbilt for persons with intellectual disabilities, Jeanne was able to be in the first class of 2011. This was life-changing for her. She developed confidence with new skills both socially and at work. For the past two years Jeanne has worked part-time at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center, her dream job. William Gavigan, III, MD - Parent See More... |
| A reflection from a researcher |
 | I am interested in developmental disabilities research for two reasons. First, I am interested in the developmental profile of serious mental illness, especially schizophrenia. There is compelling evidence that schizophrenia is characterized by subtle changes in connectivity and cellular organization that predate the onset of the psychosis by many years. Second, as a psychiatrist and chair of a department, I am aware of the great burden of mental illness in children and adolescents. Early diagnosis of mental illness is essential for proper treatment and, ultimately, prevention and cure. The VKC has brought together a diverse group of researchers and clinicians. Even more importantly, it has connected them with the community--the many patients with developmental disabilities and their families. Stephan Heckers, M.D. - Psychiatry See More... |
| A reflection from a trainee |
| I am the proud parent of four young children, one of whom has Down syndrome. Besides benefiting from their vast array of supports and services, I am currently receiving valuable research experience as a doctoral student in special education and receiving specialized disability-specific training through the VKC. Thomas Boehm - Parent, Doctoral Student in Special Education, and VKC UCEDD Trainee See More... |
| A reflection from a professional |
 | 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 See More... |
Submit your reflection here