University of Iowa Health Care Center for Disabilities and Development

11/29/2025

Congratulations to Dr. Lane Strathearn on 10 years at the Center for Disabilities and Development!

Lane Strathearn, MBBS, PhD, serves as the director of the Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics and the physician director of the Center for Disabilities and Development. He is also one of only a handful of NIH-funded developmental pediatricians in the nation.

A native of Australia, Dr. Strathearn joined the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital in 2015, bringing exceptional expertise and a profound commitment to families to CDD.

Over the past decade, Dr. Strathearn has been a leader in clinical care, education through the LEND program, community outreach, and research. When he was recruited to direct CDD, he was charged with strengthening our research mission, and he has done exactly that.

Research Highlights Under Dr. Strathearn’s Leadership:
• Launching several NIH-funded studies on early predictors of autism
• Investigating genetic and epigenetic markers that shape early development
• Exploring how language exposure, stress, and early experiences affect developmental outcomes
• Leading the Autism Genetics and Epigenetics Study, offering genetic testing during autism evaluations
• Conducting a major longitudinal study following families from pregnancy through early childhood
• Evaluating Tele-ASD-PEDS, a Zoom-based autism assessment tool to expand access

After coming from Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, Dr. Strathearn was drawn to CDD for its collaborative, interdisciplinary approach:

“When you know the colleagues you’re working with - and regularly come together for assessments - it builds a powerful synergistic personal connection. We are more than the sum of the parts when working in this collaborative environment.”

As we look toward the opportunities ahead - especially with the new CDD building - his vision continues to guide how we design and integrate our mission.

Thank you, Dr. Strathearn, for 10 years of leadership, innovation, and heart. We are so grateful you’re here!

11/27/2025

Happy Thanksgiving from CDD!

Today, we pause to reflect on the many things we’re grateful for—our community, our partners, and the people who make CDD such a special place.

We are thankful for:
• The families, children, and adults who trust us to be part of their journey.
• Our dedicated staff, whose compassion, expertise, and teamwork make a meaningful difference every day.
• Our community partners and advocates who work tirelessly to advance inclusion, dignity, and opportunity.
• The values that ground our work—kindness, patience, collaboration, and hope.

No matter how you celebrate, we hope your day is filled with warmth, connection, and rest.
Thank you for being part of the CDD family. 💛

11/26/2025

Welcome Our New Director, Ashlee Rowles!

We are pleased to welcome Ashlee Rowles, MHA, as the new Director of the Center for Disabilities and Development.

Ashlee brings over a decade of experience in healthcare administration, including eight years in women’s and children’s services where she oversaw clinical and research operations, financial performance, program development, facility management, and compliance. Most recently, she served as the Director of Operations at ChristianaCare in Newark, Delaware, leading operations at the Newark campus and supporting strategic initiatives in Surgical Services and Women’s and Children’s service lines.

Her leadership experience includes developing the business plan for a $310 million service expansion at the Middletown Campus, creating a digital-forward “Practice for the Future” model to improve patient access and experience, and overseeing the design, development, and financial planning for a 386,000-square-foot women’s and children’s tower. She also supported the redesign and expansion of the $4.6 million Pediatric Care Center.

Ashlee is an Iowa native and a two-time University of Iowa graduate, earning a bachelor’s degree in Human Physiology and a Master of Healthcare Administration. Her connection to CDD goes back many years—she previously volunteered at CDD and in the NICU, served as the Student Leader Board Chairperson, and worked as a Graduate Research Assistant in the College of Public Health.

Outside of her professional work, Ashlee is an avid runner, a mother of three, a frequent experimenter in the kitchen, a reader, and a loyal Hawkeye fan. Her first day at CDD will be December 1.

Ashlee shared: “I am grateful and excited for the opportunity to come back to Iowa to join a team that is passionate and dedicated to improving the lives of children in the community.”

Please join us in welcoming Ashlee back to Iowa and celebrating this new chapter for CDD.

11/26/2025

What I’m Thankful For – Laury Scheidler

Today we’re celebrating gratitude from Laury Scheidler, Program Coordinator and an essential leader within the ADRC team at CDD.

Laury plays a critical role in providing training and technical assistance across Iowa and has been instrumental in launching the new ADRC system. Her positivity, compassion, and steady guidance uplift everyone she works with - and we are so thankful for her presence on the team.

Laury shared:
“I’m genuinely thankful for the amazing team we have, both within our department and across the entire UCEDD. We’re fortunate to work alongside people who share the same mission and values, and to do so in an environment built on flexibility, support, and grace. Everyone works hard and truly wants to make a positive impact, especially for people who are marginalized or underserved. I’m grateful to be part of this team.”

We are grateful for Laury—her dedication, energy, and heart help make CDD a place where meaningful, mission-driven work thrives.

11/25/2025

What I’m Thankful For – Jessica Perry

Today we’re celebrating gratitude from across the CDD community, and we’re delighted to highlight Jessica Perry, HR Coordinator at the Center for Disabilities and Development.
Jessica shared:

“I am so very thankful for my friends at CDD, the work we do here and the fun we have doing it… grateful for my family, cozy fall days, nature walks, books, and my silly and sweet pups Rocky and Rosie.”

Next month, Jessica will be celebrating 22 years at CDD - a remarkable milestone that reflects her dedication and the lasting impact she has made over the years.

Jessica is a bright light at CDD - her kindness, positivity, and welcoming smile make every day a little better for those around her. We are so grateful for the joy and care she brings to our workplace and our community.

11/24/2025

Managing Stress During the Holidays

The holidays can be joyful - but they can also bring extra stress. Between schedules, expectations, and social gatherings, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

At the Center for Disabilities and Development (CDD), we believe caring for your mental health is just as important as caring for your physical health - especially this time of year.

Here are a few ways to manage holiday stress:
- Set realistic expectations. Focus on what matters most and let go of the rest.
- Take breaks. Quiet moments to rest, breathe, or step outside can make a big difference.
- Ask for help. Reach out to friends, family, or your care team when you need support.
- Stick to routines. Consistency in sleep, meals, and medication can help reduce anxiety.
- Practice kindness - to yourself and others.

Remember, it’s okay to slow down and take care of yourself this season. You deserve peace and rest.

If you or someone you know needs help finding mental health resources in Iowa, visit Iowa Compass or call 1-800-779-2001.

11/23/2025

What I’m Thankful For – Dawn Graber

As we continue sharing messages of gratitude from the CDD team, today we’re honored to highlight Dawn Graber, Program Coordinator at the Center for Disabilities and Development.

Dawn shared a heartfelt appreciation for her LEND colleagues:

“I am thankful for my colleagues on the LEND team for always encouraging and celebrating each other’s professional and personal growth. No one works harder than Lori VanderVelden, is more compassionate than Dayrin Lovan, or is a better fearless leader than Kelly VonLehmden. Even though she is now in another role, Julie Temple is still our go-to for tech support, historical recollections, and a good dose of laughter! Dr. Dianne McBrien models for us how to compassionately navigate difficult discussions with families and patients—which makes us all better leaders, community members, and friends. Our LEND motto of ‘Patience, Flexibility, Grace, and Responsibility’ is extended to all, and we work to extend it to ourselves as well. I am thankful to be a part of this amazing team!’”

Dawn’s gratitude beautifully reflects the spirit of the LEND program: supportive, collaborative, and rooted in compassion. We are so grateful to have Dawn as part of the CDD community and the LEND leadership team.

11/23/2025

What I’m Thankful For – Brenda Brenneman

Today we’re celebrating the gratitude of one of the most beloved members of the CDD team: Brenda Brenneman, longtime secretary and a welcoming presence at our registration desk.

Brenda shared, “I am grateful for a job that I love!”

Brenda’s dedication shines through every day. In her part-time role at the registration desk, she checks patients in and out, schedules follow-up appointments, manages mail, and handles anything else that comes her way. She especially treasures the daily interactions with parents and children who come in for appointments.

Brenda has been part of the Center for Disabilities and Development for 38 years, and her warmth, experience, and commitment have made a lasting impact on families and staff alike. We are deeply thankful for everything she brings to the CDD community.

11/21/2025

What I’m Thankful For - Edward Esbeck

This season, we’re celebrating the gratitude shared by members of the CDD team.

Today, we highlight Edward (Ed) Esbeck, Behavioral Health Coordinator and dedicated self-advocate.

Ed shared, “I am thankful that I work with amazing people in many aspects of my work.”

At the Center for Disabilities and Development, Ed plays a vital role in supporting individuals with disabilities and championing meaningful change. He has been deeply involved in the LEND program and continually encourages others to embrace self-advocacy and find their voice.

We are truly grateful to have Ed on the CDD team - his passion, leadership, and
kindness make a difference every day. 💛

11/21/2025

The Iowa Family Leadership Training Institute is inviting parents and primary caregivers of children and youth with special needs to apply for a special leadership training. Training runs next March through May. Download flyer: https://links.iowacompass.org/43GOEaR

11/21/2025

Find a group here: https://www.askresource.org/inpersonsupportgroup

Join ASK Resource Center this fall for their free ASK Each Other In-Person Support Groups happening across Iowa!

These monthly meetups are a safe, welcoming space where parents and caregivers of children with disabilities can connect, share experiences, and support one another.

🗓️ November’s Topic: FAQ About IEPs — plus anything else group members bring to discuss
🗓️ December’s Topic: How to Prepare for Your Child’s IEP Meeting or Medical Appointment — plus anything else group members bring to discuss

📍 Held in communities across Iowa
💬 No registration required — just show up!
🔗 Find a group near you: https://www.askresource.org/inpersonsupportgroup

11/21/2025

Did you know that 1 in 3 adults has prediabetes—and most don’t know it? The good news: Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented!

Here are a few steps recommended by the CDC:

- Know your risk. Take the CDC’s prediabetes risk test and talk with your provider about getting screened.
- Move more. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity each week (like brisk walking).
- Eat smart. Choose whole grains, veggies, lean proteins, and limit sugary drinks.
- Join a prevention program. The CDC’s National Diabetes Prevention Program helps people cut their risk in half through lifestyle support.

At the Center for Disabilities and Development (CDD), we believe everyone deserves access to the tools and care they need to live a healthy, full life.

Learn more: www.cdc.gov/diabetes/prevention