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IHDD Welcomes Senator Murray’s Appropriations Staff
The University of Washington Institute on Human Development and Disability (IHDD) welcomed seven members of U.S. Senator Patty Murray’s appropriations staff on Aug. 31 as part of the team’s weeklong visit to sites across eastern and western Washington.
Led by IHDD Interim Director Mark Harniss, PhD, the tour offered visitors a firsthand look at the institute’s work in clinical services, professional training, community engagement, accessibility and assistive technology.
At the UW Autism Center, Clinical Director Jess Greenson shared information about services for autistic individuals and their families. Kathleen Lehman highlighted interdisciplinary training through the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities program and Clinical Training Unit, while Gary Stobbe discussed the work of the Adults and Elders Program. Harniss also introduced the group to IHDD’s work related to the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The group also visited the Washington Assistive Technology Act Program (WATAP), where Director Alan Knue, Scott Canaan, and Brennan Johnston introduced visitors to tools and services that help Washingtonians with disabilities explore and access assistive technology. Visitors toured WATAP’s demonstration room and learned how devices can support independence and participation in everyday life.
Emily Wills and Sarah Castro of UW Federal Relations also participated in the visit.
The visit provided an opportunity to share how IHDD programs serve people with disabilities and their families across the lifespan while supporting professionals and communities throughout Washington state.
