The Silent Garden

Scarlett's Park Conference

Scarlett's Park in the Silent Garden at Fresno State is an annual conference focusing on Deaf and Hard of Hearing children and adults with special needs. Each year we invite distinguished lecturers from across the United States to share their knowledge and expertise with our community.

Through the generosity of our supporters, we offer this conference free of charge to ensure as many people as possible have access to the important resources and information shared at the event.

2024 Sixth Annual Scarlett's Park Conference

September 20, 4 - 8 p.m. PST | September 21, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. PST

Join us for a virtual presentation on "Joy, Resilience, and Hope" where families of deaf and hard of hearing children with special needs will share stories of overcoming obstacles and inspiring others. Through optimism and compassion, they are making a difference in the lives of their children. This conference will provide valuable insight and support for families and spark inspiration and understanding. There will be six panels curated from 18 parents and panelists with lived experiences, along with six moderators guiding discussions that will provide a rich tapestry of perspectives and experiences.

Registration is free, however 0.9 CEUs will be offered for $35 through RID, BEI, ASHA or Fresno State (generic).

Register today! | Regístrate en español

Keynote Presentations:

Djenne-Amal Morris
"Crossroads: The Journey of Parent to Professional"

In this keynote address, Djenne-Amal N. Morris invites you to embark on a transformative exploration of the challenges and triumphs families encounter, as they navigate the complexities of raising children with unique abilities.

With heartfelt storytelling and unwavering authenticity, Djenne shares her journey as a parent of a child with special needs, offering poignant insights into the joys, struggles, and profound moments of growth along the way. Through tales of overcoming obstacles and finding strength in the face of adversity, she illuminates the resilience and hope that define the fabric of these families' lives.

As a seasoned and visionary leader, Djenne will also shed light on the evolution of her role from parent to professional—a journey marked by profound transformation, self-discovery, and a deep commitment to advocating for inclusivity and empowerment.

Cat Valcourt-Pearce
"Finding Joy Amidst Chaos: Cree's Journey"

Raising a deaf or hard of hearing child with disabilities can be overwhelming and often isolating. Cat Valcourt-Pearce will share her experiences navigating life with her deafdisabled son and describe ways in which the family has been able to find information, support, connections, and even joy while facing daily challenges.

About Valcourt-Pearce: Cat C. Valcourt-Pearce, MS, has worked at Gallaudet University’s Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center, in Washington, D.C., for close to 30 years. She and her husband, Larry, are the proud parents of four young sons—one OHKODA (only hearing kid of deaf adults), one deafdisabled, and two deaf (twins).

* A third speaker will share the experience of a deaf and hard of hearing adult through the parent's perspective. This special surprise speaker will be announced in September!

View full list of speakers and panelists

VIEW TWO-DAY AGENDA

4:00 – 4:15 p.m.
Welcome Speeches by Dr. Kara Zografos, interim dean of the College of Health and Human Services and Dr. Paul W.Ogden, founder of The Silent Garden

4:15 p.m.
Introduction by Paul W. Ogden

4:15 – 5:30 p.m.
Keynote address by Djenne-Amal Morris
“Crossroads: The Journey of Parent to Professional”

5:30 - 5:45 p.m.
Break

5:45 – 6:45 p.m.
Panel: "Education and Socio-Emotional Needs" | Moderated by Ann Mayes
Panelists: Ukawia Johnson, Darlene Norman, Melinda Ray

6:45 – 7:00 p.m.
Break

7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Panel: "Fathers Speak Out" | Moderated by Jared Norman
Panelists: Darren Ludington, Freddy Gomez, George Walker

8:15 a.m.
Introduction by Paul W. Ogden

8:15 - 9:30 a.m.
Keynote Address by Cat Valcourt-Pearce
“Finding Joy Amidst Chaos: Cree’s Journey”

9:30 – 9:45 a.m.
Break

9:45 – 10:45 a.m.
Panel: "Siblings and Families" | Moderated by Morgan Davies
Panelists: Taylor Hvass, Imani Morris, Kidus Yohannes

10:45 - 11:00 a.m.
Break

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Panel: "Communicating/Working with Doctors" | Moderated by Michelle John
Panelists: Maria Austin, Yodit Amare, Kodi Ogle

12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Lunch Break

1:00 p.m.
Introduction by Paul W. Ogden

1:00 – 2:15 p.m.
Keynote Address: Surprise Guest Speaker

2:15 – 2:30 p.m.
Break

2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Panel: "Providers and Community Engagement" | Moderated by Amanda Hvass
Panelists: Imelda Rivas, Emma Gomez, Cheri Dowling

3:30 – 3:45 p.m.
Break

3:45 – 4:45 p.m.
Panel: "Joys of Parenting" | Moderated by Amy Szarkowski
Parents: Heather Withrow, Amanda Wernicke, LaShawna Sims

4:45 – 5:00 p.m.
Closing ceremony by Paul W. Ogden

Additional Information

Registration and Fees

The Scarlett's Park Conference is 100% free for all attendees.
0.925 CEUS offered through RID, BEI, ASHA and Fresno State

Accommodations

Sign language interpreting and captioning will be provided.
ASL, English and Spanish translations will be available
For best viewing experience, joining the webinar from a desktop or latpop is recommended
For questions or accommodations, contact Dr. Paul Ogden at paulo@csufresno.edu