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 will never forget the moment I learned my son had autism—the fear, the confusion, the helplessness—how could I ever learn all I would need to know to raise this precious little person who experiences the world in ways I can’t imagine? The Families First program at the VKC was there from the beginning—educating, supporting, and encouraging us. And they were there three years later when I lived that moment a second time, the day I learned my daughter had autism—ready to help in every way they could. Elizabeth Stivers - Parent See More... |
| A reflection from a researcher |
 | Developmental disorders touch the lives of almost everyone in some way. Yet developmental brain disorders remain poorly understood. A better understanding of the molecular basis of these disorders could lead to novel strategies for their treatment and prevention. This is a challenging task that will require a concerted effort on the part of researchers and clinicians, who are working together to find a solution. I want to be a part of this effort and I hope that I can contribute in some small way. One of the things that attracted me to the VKC was its integrative approach toward understanding and treating developmental disorders. The Center also recognizes the importance of engaging families and the community as a whole in our effort to prevent, diagnose, and develop effective treatments for developmental disabilities. Working together as a team we can make a difference in the lives of individuals and families with developmental disabilities. Donna Webb, Ph.D. - Biological Sciences 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 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