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
John and Janet Shouse - Parents and Disability Advocates

We have a son with autism who is now 19, and our personal connection with the VKC goes back almost 16 years. We have come to know the VKC as a trusted partner, an invaluable resource, and a source of encouragement for ourselves and others in Tennessee and our region.

John and Janet Shouse - Parents and Disability Advocates

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A reflection from a professional
Nina Harris - VKC Disability 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

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A reflection from a researcher
Lynn Fuchs, Ph.D., and Doug Fuchs, Ph.D. - Special Education

We began our careers as general education classroom teachers, where we struggled to address the needs of students with learning disabilities. This motivated us to work hard over the years to provide general and special education teachers with methods that can help them address the needs of these students more effectively. We believe in the mission of the VKC, which includes fostering collaborative relationships among investigators from different disciplines.

Lynn Fuchs, Ph.D., and Doug Fuchs, Ph.D. - Special Education

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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

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Submit your reflection here

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