Message from the Interim Director

Welcome to the Web site for the Center for Development and Learning.

The CDL is North Carolina's University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service. In this role, we work in collaboration with families to address their goals and enrich the lives of children, adults, and family members of people with disabilities throughout North Carolina.

The CDL has many faces.

• The CDL is a leading resource for training the leaders of the future in developmental and related disabilities. Our faculty is made up of professionals in the disciplines of pediatrics, psychology, education, nutrition, social work, physical therapy, occupational therapy, audiology, speech and language pathology, and pediatric dentistry. Advanced trainees in each of these disciplines work closely with the faculty in their own and other disciplines to develop skills in research, clinical service, and service to the community.
• The CDL is a partnership. The varied activities of the CDL are carried out in collaboration with people with disabilities, colleagues at the University of North Carolina and other universities, state agencies, advocacy organizations, and service providers. The CDL Advisory Committee is made up of representatives of these diverse partnerships.
• The CDL is a service provider. We provide exemplary interdisciplinary services to individuals of all ages and with a variety of characteristics, including young children at risk of developmental problems, children with rare diseases, children experiencing difficulties with school learning, and young adults who struggle with their transition to independence. These services take place in our clinic, in schools, and in a variety of community settings.
• The CDL is an interdisciplinary research center. Research focuses on many issues, but the common theme is research that complements the Center's exemplary services and involves trainees who will become the research leaders of the future.

The CDL is constantly changing to address the needs of the citizens of North Carolina and to move forward in the development of new knowledge and services. Enjoy your virtual tour through the CDL, and please feel welcome to visit us or to call upon us for information or service.

Greg Olley, Ph.D.