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 family has been connected to the work of the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for over 15 years, since my younger brother Evan, now 18, was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at age 3. Evan has participated in countless educational programs, clinical services, research studies, and activities over the years. The Kennedy Center staff and programs have provided wonderful support to my parents. Especially important to me is the valuable supports that if has offered to young and adult siblings like myself of brothers and sisters with disabilities. Emma Shouse - Sibling 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... |
| 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 researcher |
 | My interests in studying reading disabilities began when I got a job out of college working at a school for children with dyslexia. The year I spent teaching raised so many questions that I decided to go back to school and get a Ph.D. in Communications Disorders and Learning Disabilities. My research revolves around helping to improve the long-term literacy outcomes of children who struggle to develop reading skills. This focus fits well within the core mission of the Kennedy Center. Being a VKC investigator has provided me with opportunities to extend my research that would not have been possible without the relationship. I value the multidisciplinary research opportunities afforded by being a VKC member. Donald Compton, Ph.D. - Special Education See More... |
Submit your reflection here