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 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... |
| 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 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... |
Submit your reflection here