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 |
 | It is through the VKC that I caught the vision and was inspired to follow my daughter with autism’s North Star—that of a life-long pursuit and successful career in art. Leisa Hammett - Parent See More... |
| A reflection from a researcher |
 | When I was growing up, a fellow named Herbie played with us. I didn’t realize how unusual this was for the time, since most people with Down syndrome were institutionalized then. As I got older, I realized that many people didn’t see Herbie as a valued member of the community in the way that we felt growing up. When I began training as a clinician, it became clear that many aspects of intervention, although rooted in clinical knowledge, had not been examined through research. It was only natural that this interest in clinical practice and improving services to people with disabilities would be a primary research interest. The VKC is a tremendous place to interact with other researchers interested in developmental disabilities. Stephen Camarata, Ph.D. - Hearing & Speech Sciences and Psychiatry 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 UCEDD trainee, the VKC has been very important to me. I have learned so much from contributing to many of its self-advocacy projects for people with disabilities, and I am proud to be a part of all they do in the Nashville community. As a graduate student in Peabody College, I feel that working with the VKC UCEDD has helped me to mature in ways that will make me a successful special education teacher. Carrie Glover - Graduate student in Special Education and VKC UCEDD Trainee See More... |
Submit your reflection here