Partnership for People with Disabilities

What inspired you to work in the disability field and keeps you motivated?

My aunt, Deanie, had polio as a child.  I spent a lot of time with her growing up and grew to understand and appreciate the many ways she figured out how to do the things that were important to her.  She drove a car with modifications, thrived as an executive in the insurance industry, and lived a very independent, long life.   In terms of my own work, I have always been fascinated by child development, especially language development, and have been fortunate to be able to work in the field of developmental disabilities for my entire career. 

Can you share a memorable moment in your career that had a significant impact on you or the individuals you serve?

In 2012, I applied to serve as the CDC’s Act Early Ambassador in Virginia. I have continued to serve in that role and was recently reappointed for a two-year term. I love having the opportunity to share the “Learn the Signs. “Act Early” resources with families and work with partners in Virginia to integrate the resources into their programs and activities. 

What is one misconception about your role or the disability field that you would like to clarify?

Regarding early identification and support for families, I continue to hear families share that they were told to “wait and see” when they raised questions about their child’s development. I want families to know about developmental milestones, things they can do to encourage their child’s development, how to access resources and services if they see a concern, and that family support resources are available to them, like the Center for Family Involvement (CFI). 

How do you approach creating inclusive environments or supporting accessibility in your work? 

We have an urgent need for additional quality, inclusive, early childhood settings in Virginia.  By working with partners at the VDOE, Ready Regions, and community colleges, I see ways to improve the quality of care for all children and to strengthen early identification of developmental concerns.  It will take the expertise and resources from multiple agencies and providers working together. 

What skills or qualities do you feel are most important in serving the disability community? 

My work is most successful when I collaborate with partners (at the state, regional, and local levels).  The work needs to be driven by the lived experiences of families of young children with disabilities.  I value collaborating with others and think interpersonal skills are essential in establishing and maintaining relationships with partners.  

What is a recent project or initiative you are proud of, and how did it benefit those you work with?

We are wrapping up an Act Early Ambassador Special Project funded by the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).  We worked with Thrive Birth to Five to identify ways to integrate LTSAE resources with The Basics and piloted activities with early care and education programs in Central Virginia.

How do you stay informed and continue learning about best practices in the disability field?

Because of my work at the Partnership, I work on projects related to early childhood, health, social and emotional development, and disability systems. I follow funders, technical assistance providers, and researchers who support work in these areas. I also sign up for distribution lists from federal agencies and professional organizations. I am a member of the Division for Early Childhood and the Virginia Association of Infant Mental Health.  I also keep informed by connecting with the other 62 Act Early Ambassadors nationwide. 

What advice would you give to someone starting a career in the disability field?

Find ways to learn from people with lived experience in your area of work.  Recognize that we are all learning and that our work is done in collaboration, so spend building relationships with families and partners.