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 |
 | 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 See More... |
| A reflection from a researcher |
 | When I was growing up, a fellow named Herbie played with us. I didn’t realize how unusual this was for the time, since most people with Down syndrome were institutionalized then. As I got older, I realized that many people didn’t see Herbie as a valued member of the community in the way that we felt growing up. When I began training as a clinician, it became clear that many aspects of intervention, although rooted in clinical knowledge, had not been examined through research. It was only natural that this interest in clinical practice and improving services to people with disabilities would be a primary research interest. The VKC is a tremendous place to interact with other researchers interested in developmental disabilities. Stephen Camarata, Ph.D. - Hearing & Speech Sciences and Psychiatry See More... |
| A reflection from a trainee |
 | As a Postdoctoral Fellow, I was a trainee with LEND (Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities]. This experience was invaluable to my current work as a clinical psychologist who specializes in diagnosing very young children with autism. My LEND training enhanced my abilities to understand families’ perspectives, to collaborate across disciplines, and to maintain cultural competence, all of which helps me provide better care to children and parents at a very difficult moment in their lives. Amy Weitlauf - VKC Member and Former LEND Trainee See More... |
| A reflection from a professional |
| [The VKC] is an absolutely amazing place to work, but more importantly, people here truly help to change lives for the better. I’ve worked here in some capacity since I graduated from the Master’s of Special Education program in 2007, and I cannot think of a better place to refer families who have a loved one with a disability. In my own work, we are helping high school students with autism and their families prepare for the transition from high school, and we are also helping faith communities as they support people with disabilities to find and hold employment. Jenny Gustafson - Special Education Alumna and VKC Disability Professional See More... |
Submit your reflection here