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
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
Sponsors
- College of Health and Human Services at Fresno State
Learn about our past conferences