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 perspective is that of a parent whose son received early intervention services at the Susan Gray School. Not only did Alex thrive and receive a sound foundation for his future development, but the supports I received strengthened my parenting skills and imparted critical knowledge that led me to become an effective advocate for him. Alex participated in important research that benefited him and helped deepen understanding about best practices in meeting the needs of children and adults with disabilities and their families. I am indebted to the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for its positive impact on my life and that of my son, and for its continued dedication to unlocking the mysteries of human development. Dara Howe - Parent See More... |
| A reflection from a researcher |
 | My research interests have always been grounded in questions of development, specifically as they relate to the development of sensory and multisensory systems. As a natural extension of these interests, I have a deep desire to better understand what happens under circumstances where development goes awry. Hence, my research program has gravitated more and more toward studies of how sensory function is altered in children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities. The VKC is an extraordinary place with extraordinary people. When contemplating a move to Vanderbilt, the presence of a center with such dedicated and passionate people, state-of-the-art resources, and deep-seated community support “sealed the deal.” To be able to work in such an environment, driven by the singular mission to help those living with developmental disabilities, is at the same time humbling and inspiring. I don’t know of another place where my research program could be better supported, but more importantly, where I feel that my work can be translated in such a way as to make a meaningful difference in so many lives. Mark Wallace, Ph.D. - Hearing and Speech Sciences, Psychiatry, and Psychology See More... |
| 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 See More... |
| A reflection from a professional |
 | Recently a mother shared with me that over four decades ago she gave birth to a baby girl with Down syndrome. The medical staff and others strongly encouraged her to give her daughter over to an institution as it was the best option at the time. While in the hospital a social worker from the Kennedy Center discussed services and resources available to her if she chose to keep her child in her care. As a result of their conversation she decided to raise her child with the support of her family and this Center. This family is currently thriving in their community. To work somewhere that touches people’s lives on such an incredible level is an experience I am very fortunate to be part of. Sarah Harvey - VKC Disability Professional See More... |
Submit your reflection here