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 daughter Jeanne, age 25 with Down syndrome, has been involved with the Kennedy Center since her early years. Because of the efforts of the Kennedy Center to develop the first postsecondary two-year educational program in Tennessee at Vanderbilt for persons with intellectual disabilities, Jeanne was able to be in the first class of 2011. This was life-changing for her. She developed confidence with new skills both socially and at work. For the past two years Jeanne has worked part-time at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center, her dream job. William Gavigan, III, MD - Parent 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 researcher |
 | The barriers to meaningful school and community inclusion are often complex and pervasive. Addressing many of the prevailing challenges encountered by adolescents with disabilities and their families will require innovative and multifaceted solutions. Interdisciplinary work draws upon the best of what we know, works from multiple fields, and incorporates the perspectives of a breadth of key stakeholders. This is critical to expanding opportunities, strengthening supports, and improving outcomes for youth and young adults with significant disabilities. The VKC draws together in one place a constellation of compelling researchers, practitioners, policy makers, community leaders, and family members who share a deep and common commitment to enhancing quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For an early career scholar like myself, there is simply no better place to do this important work. Erik Carter, Ph.D. - Special Education See More... |
| A reflection from a trainee |
 | The VKC has become a home to my family in the few short years since my daughter’s birth. We’ve benefited in countless ways from its research, professional training (I was a LEND Family Trainee), workshops, and other community programs. I also have the opportunity to learn and give back to the Center as part of the Community Advisory Council and the Public Policy Committee. The VKC has been an incredible resource to me as a parent but has also been critical in my development as a professional, helping me to become a voice for other families through special education advocacy. From both perspectives, I cannot overstate the importance of the Center’s role in creating more meaningful and productive lives for people like my daughter, and I am proud to be part of an organization that continues to lead this charge both locally and nationally. Christine Sartain - Parent, LEND Trainee, and Disability Advocate See More... |
Submit your reflection here