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 |
 | For 50 years, the Center has searched for ways to improve the lives of people with disabilities and their families. One of those ways is sponsoring the Tennessee Adult Brothers and Sisters (TABS) sibling network….The VKC has many projects and programs that assist and empower our siblings, families, and us to provide the best life possible. John Donovan - Brother See More... |
| A reflection from a researcher |
 | As a clinical scientist, my research is highly influenced by the natural social world in which our children with autism struggle and strive to succeed. Within this context–amidst peer interaction and play–we are learning ways to understand and thereby improve the social functioning of children with autism and related neurodevelopmental disorders. Our research in the SENSE lab is fundamentally translational–informed by clinical knowledge, guided by research, and motivated by community partnerships. The mission of the VKC, to improve the quality of life of individuals with developmental disabilities, has always resonated with me and was one of the key reasons I came to Vanderbilt. From the pictures on the banners that greet you when you walk in the door to the Grand Round presentations by leaders in neuroscience, psychology, special education, medicine and more–there is a deep sense of commitment to making each day better, brighter, and more meaningful for the children and adults we serve. Blythe Corbett, Ph.D. - Psychiatry and Psychology 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 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... |
Submit your reflection here