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 |
 | 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 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 |
 | I am a developmental neurobiologist using a genetic approach to study the molecular mechanisms of neuronal function. My primary interest is in understanding the formation of neural circuits and the adaptive plasticity of these circuits that drive behavioral change. One motivation behind my interest is to help people who have neurological disorders. The VKC brings together people at all levels (clinicians, intervention therapists, neuroscientists) to work together on discovering the causes of neurological disorders and devising treatments and cures. It is a particularly valuable resource to me, as a fundamental neuroscience researcher, in providing contacts with other groups of researchers who provide unique insights and perspectives that would otherwise not be available. The VKC brings to campus the world’s leading experts in neurogenetics and neurobiology to provide seminars and highly valued interactions. Last but not least, the VKC provides an avenue of interaction with children and families experiencing developmental disorders. Kendal Broadie, Ph.D. - Biological Sciences 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