Riley Child Development Center To Celebrate 35 Years of Leadership Training, Service to Children and Their Families

INDIANAPOLIS - The Riley Child Development Center (RCDC), an interdisciplinary leadership training program of the IU School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics will celebrate its 35th anniversary at 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30 in the Riley Outpatient Center, Ruth Lilly Auditorium. The RCDC will celebrate its history with a poster session and reception highlighting training alumni accomplishments followed by an awards presentation.

Throughout its history, the RCDC has supported hundreds of students and professionals from 18 separate disciplines as they learn about child development and family centered practice through internships and practica as part of their formal educational experiences.

"The interdisciplinary training model has proven to be an effective way to support optimal learning in all disciplines," said Dr. John D. Rau, director of the RCDC since 1989. "Former students continue to praise this model as the highlight of their learning experience and demonstrate multiple leadership achievements throughout their careers."

Thousands of children and their families have participated in the center's interdisciplinary assessment clinic. Children with learning, behavior and other developmental concerns are referred by their local physician to take part in this highly effective assessment experience. Families report that the clinic is enormously helpful in understanding their child's current development and obtaining ideas and strategies to maximize their potential in their home communities.

Dr. Richard Schreiner, chief of pediatrics in the IU School of Medicine notes "The RCDC provides a crucial service to children, families, students and other professionals. We are proud of their outstanding contributions and accomplishments."