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About Us
Mission
The Institute serves children, families, and professionals across local, national and global communities.
We are guided by our mission (why we do what we do), our pillars (what we aim to impact and influence), and our strategies (how we intend to make a difference).
Our Mission
To generate and disseminate transformational ideas and practices which advance outcomes for individuals – deaf and hearing – who have developmental or communication challenges and the professionals who engage with them.
Our Pillars
Professional Excellence
Professional Excellence: Cultivation and development of valuable knowledge and skills
Partnerships and Community Engagement
Partnerships and Community Engagement: Establishment and maintenance of meaningful, collaborative relationships
Scholarship
Scholarship: Curation and creation of high-quality research and evidence-based practices
Our Strategies
Teaching and Learning
Teaching and Learning: Locating, developing, and sharing information, tools, and resources to enhance teaching & service provision
Building and Broadening Impact
Building and Broadening Impact: Fostering cooperation, idea-sharing, and professionalism for and with those serving this population
Research
Research: Investigating the literature, linking research and practice, and conducting relevant research
Meet The Team
Amy Szarkowski, PhD
Dr. Szarkowski is a psychologist who brings vast experience working in clinical and educational settings with, and in support of, children who are deaf and/or who have disabilities, as well as their families. Her research interests as they pertain to children who are deaf include: exploring the role of pragmatics, understanding and supporting families raising deaf children, developing and implementing effective early intervention, and fostering social and emotional functioning. Dr. Szarkowski is motivated by “fostering joy” and helping families and professionals to emphasize the joy in their respective journeys.
Sarah Brandt, EdD
Dr. Brandt has been affiliated with the Children’s Center for Communication/Beverly School for the Deaf since 2006. She has experience as a classroom teacher of the deaf, early intervention service provider, media specialist, and curriculum coordinator. Dr. Brandt’s research interests include curriculum and instruction, universal design for learning, and educational technology for students who are deaf and/or have disabilities. In addition, Dr. Brandt is interested in the design, implementation, and evaluation of professional learning for practitioners supporting this population.