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 |
| I have had a 21-year personal relationship with those who have special needs [because of our son, adopted at birth]. I do not know what my husband and I, both eggheads, would have done without the practical and research-based wisdom of the VKC. Nicholas’s first VKC program was TRIAD, a place where we all learned how to live with structure, what to attend to, what to let go. We also learned that we were not alone and that the professionals at VKC were actively working to make my family’s and other families’ lives better. That matters when your child is nothing like any other child you know. But my child could do more….The VKC has showed us how another way is possible. That our children can and will have another way. Robbie Pinter - Parent 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... |
| 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 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... |
Submit your reflection here