Please note that this post contains affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward MageeNews.com a small commission – at no extra cost to you.
IDS’ LaVergne Named Mississippi’s Act Early Ambassador
Identifying developmental delays early can make an important difference in the services a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or other developmental disabilities receives. In 2011, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) established the Act Early Ambassador program, a network of state-level experts that works together to improve early identification practices.
Dr. Leslie LaVergne, a navigator and trainer at The University of Southern Mississippi Institute for Disability Studies, has been selected to serve as Mississippi’s Act Early Ambassador to expand the reach of the “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” program and promote messages and activities through collaboration within the state to improve screening, diagnostic, and referral services for young children with ASD and other developmental disabilities.
“Dr. LaVergne’s expertise will be tremendously beneficial to children with Autism and other developmental disabilities and their families in Mississippi,” said Dr. Beth Bryant-Claxton, director of IDS. “Her involvement with this program will assist young children in getting the services and supports they and their families need.”
IDS is Mississippi’s University Center for Excellence in Education, Research and Services (UCEDD). Celebrating its 40th year at The University of Southern Mississippi, IDS works to enhance the lives of Mississippi and with disabilities and their families. For more information about IDS, visit https://www.usm.edu/disability-studies.
About The University of Southern Mississippi
Founded in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi is a comprehensive doctoral and research-driven university with a proud history and an eye on the future. A dual-campus university, Southern Miss serves students on campuses in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, in addition to five teaching and research sites in Mississippi and through Online at Southern Miss. Since 2006, Southern Miss students have collected seven Goldwater Scholarships, three Truman Scholarships and 14 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships. Our Center for Undergraduate Research affords our students meaningful research opportunities, and as a proven leader in innovation, we conduct transformative research that translates into real-world solutions. As one of only 36 institutions in the nation accredited in art, dance, music and theatre, we are a haven for creativity and artistic expression. In the classroom or lab, on the playing field, or in the performance hall, we strive to have a positive impact not only on our students, but also the world around us. Further information is found at www.usm.edu.
