Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities
The Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities invests in research, training, outreach, and clinical services that promote the flourishing of people with disabilities, their families, and communities.
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Center Spotlight
More NewsIn closing the month of April and Autism Acceptance Month, the Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities (BCDD) would like to highlight some of the great work around autism within the Center. Baylor faculty and staff collaborate on projects related to autism that involve clinical training of students, extensive research, professional development, intervention support for families and autistic individuals, and community outreach.
Dr. Margaret Wooddy, Center faculty affiliate and Professor in Health Human Performance and Recreation (HHPR) has dedicated 45 years to adapting physical education programming to increase access for those with varying motor abilities. Her passion and decades of work have significantly impacted the lives of so many in schools and the community. Dr. Wooddy said, “I have worked for so long in this field because I believe God has called me to work in this area.” Dr. Wooddy began her career in 1976, working part-time in the Baylor University Athletic Department as the Head Coach for the Baylor Women’s Volleyball and Track teams. She later taught part-time in the Physical Education program in HHPR, which ultimately paved the way for a successful career as a Professor in HHPR.
“People with disabilities are often overlooked despite their unique abilities and desire for love,” said Catherine Leftwich, a Senior in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD). Leftwich is working towards a career as an audiologist and is currently involved in two projects alongside Center faculty affiliate and Assistant Professor in CSD, Dr. Alison Prahl. Leftwich, graduating this May, has dedicated her studies at Baylor to working with individuals with disabilities. She pursued a degree in CSD because of her keen interest in working with individuals with disabilities. Initially, she had set her sights on pursuing a degree in special education and began working part-time as a Registered Behavior Technician. After taking an audiology course at Baylor, she discovered her true calling to become an audiologist.
On Wednesday, April 17, the BCDD, in collaboration with the Baylor Collaborative on Faith and Disability, hosted Disability & Church: A Conversation. Baptist Standard covered the event.