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 researcher |
 | The barriers to meaningful school and community inclusion are often complex and pervasive. Addressing many of the prevailing challenges encountered by adolescents with disabilities and their families will require innovative and multifaceted solutions. Interdisciplinary work draws upon the best of what we know, works from multiple fields, and incorporates the perspectives of a breadth of key stakeholders. This is critical to expanding opportunities, strengthening supports, and improving outcomes for youth and young adults with significant disabilities. The VKC draws together in one place a constellation of compelling researchers, practitioners, policy makers, community leaders, and family members who share a deep and common commitment to enhancing quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For an early career scholar like myself, there is simply no better place to do this important work. Erik Carter, Ph.D. - Special Education 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 |
 | In my role, I assist families who have children with autism spectrum disorder. I have the opportunity each day to hear directly from families about their struggles and triumphs. Even the simplest of daily routines can be difficult for families who have children with autism. I feel lucky that families choose to share their stories with me. I also feel extremely lucky to be a part of the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center where many talented researchers are trying to determine the best interventions and treatments for the families I speak with. Daily, I listen to families, validate their concerns and feelings, and hopefully offer them a service or resources to address their needs. The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center is a true asset to these families as well as to the University, the greater Nashville community, and others who are much farther away. Nina Harris - VKC Disability Professional See More... |
Submit your reflection here