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 |
 | In 1969, our family moved to Nashville with our son who has an intellectual disability and cerebral palsy. The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center has been a source of vision, information, and support for our family. Belinda and Ron Butler - Parents See More... |
| A reflection from a professional |
| I was introduced to the Kennedy Center in 1975 when I was an undergraduate at Peabody College, now Vanderbilt University. It changed my life, and set me on my career path. I left as a graduate, and I came back for graduate studies. And I work in disability and I still count on the Kennedy Center every day. Carol Westlake - Tennessee Disability Public Policy Advocate See More... |
| A reflection from a researcher |
 | I am a developmental neurobiologist using a genetic approach to study the molecular mechanisms of neuronal function. My primary interest is in understanding the formation of neural circuits and the adaptive plasticity of these circuits that drive behavioral change. One motivation behind my interest is to help people who have neurological disorders. The VKC brings together people at all levels (clinicians, intervention therapists, neuroscientists) to work together on discovering the causes of neurological disorders and devising treatments and cures. It is a particularly valuable resource to me, as a fundamental neuroscience researcher, in providing contacts with other groups of researchers who provide unique insights and perspectives that would otherwise not be available. The VKC brings to campus the world’s leading experts in neurogenetics and neurobiology to provide seminars and highly valued interactions. Last but not least, the VKC provides an avenue of interaction with children and families experiencing developmental disorders. Kendal Broadie, Ph.D. - Biological Sciences See More... |
| A reflection from a trainee |
 | 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 See More... |
Submit your reflection here