DISTINGUISHED SPEAKER SERIES

For several decades, Springer has partnered with Cincinnati Children's and other leaders in education to bring nationally renowned experts in learning disabilities and ADHD to Cincinnati. Typically, the speaker will present an evening program for parents and a full-day workshop for educators, clinicians and other professionals. Click here to be notified of upcoming events.

Dr. Tim Odegard

Tim Odegard, Ph.D. is a professor of psychology and holds the Katherine Davis Murfree Chair of Excellence in Dyslexic Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He also leads the efforts of the Tennessee Center for the Study and Treatment of Dyslexia. He also serves as Editor-in-Chief of Annals of Dyslexia. Before joining the faculty at MTSU, Tim served on the faculty at the University of Texas Arlington and UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. In addition to being a research scientist, Tim is a reading therapist, having completed a two-year dyslexia specialist training program at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children in Dallas during his NIH funded postdoctoral fellowship.

Dr. Odegard presented two programs on Springer's campus in February 2023 as part of the Distinguished Speaker Series. 

 

Running Miles for Dyslexia with Jared Blank

Jared S. Blank is a speaker, coach and athlete who was once told he wouldn't graduate high school. Diagnosed with dyslexia and sensory processing disorder as a child, Blank’s difficulties presented a significant challenge which he was able to manage through his love of running.

Blank enthusiastically shares how he faced his obstacles and used running as his safe space and pathway to the world. Learn how he earned two master’s degrees, became a World Marathon athlete (running 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days) and author. Through his speaking engagement, journey through his word, his pain, and his triumph. Listeners will be amazed and inspired by what is possible and come to understand why he is so passionate about sharing his story.

Dr. Andrew Johnson

2021-2022 Dr. Andrew Johnson is Professor of Education and Distinguished Faculty Scholar at Minnesota State University, Mankato.  He specializes in literacy instruction for struggling readers, RTI for reading and writing, strategies for the inclusive classroom, and advanced pedagogy.   After teaching in the classroom for 9 years, he received a PhD from the University of Minnesota in Literacy Instruction.  He is the author of 14 books and numerous book chapters and academic articles related to literacy, learning, and the human condition.  

Dr. Beverly Tatum

2021-2022 Dr. Beverly Tatum, president emerita of Spelman College and a clinical psychologist, is the author of several books that explore questions of race and education. Organized by Springer's ACTION Team, Dr. Tatum met with education professionals for a conversation around her book Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? and Other Conversations About Race.

 

Jessica McCabe

2021-2022 To kick off LD/ADHD Awareness Month, Springer welcomed YouTube sensation and host of How to ADHD Jessica McCabe.  In a live virtual session titled Getting Fish Out of Trees, One Brain at a Time, held in September 2021, Jessica shared her own experiences growing up and how she began to realize the importance of understanding what it means to have ADHD. 

David Anderson, PhD

2020-2021  On February 11, Dr. David Anderson presented a virtual evening program for parents, Development of the Child with ADHD...What Does the Future Hold? in which he discussed strategies for success at home.

On February 12, Dr. Anderson facilitated a full-day workshop for educators and clinicians, Practical Strategies for Students with ADHD, in which he outlined multiple strategies for school success. Dr. Anderson is widely regarded as the go-to source on children and adolescents with ADHD. In addition to his work at the Child Mind Institute, he is dedicated to sharing his expertise through public outreach venues.

 

Jonathan Mooney

2020-2021  Jonathan Mooney presented a virtual program for parents, Making Difference Count, on October 20. Jonathan illustrated his ideas from his personal and professional experiences as a person with dyslexia and student with ADHD. Through his experiences and forward-thinking philosophies, Jonathan was able to present his broad academic knowledge of education, psychology, sociology and history of learning and disability.  He has written three books, including his newest release Normal Sucks: How to Live, Learn, and Thrive Outside the Lines.

Despite not learning to read until the age of twelve, Jonathan became an award winning writer, entrepreneur, and activist. He holds an honors degree from Brown University, is a Harry S. Truman Scholar for Public Service (California, 1999), and was a finalist for a Rhodes scholarship.

Marilyn Zecher, MA, CALT

2019-2020  Ms. Zecher presented an evening program for parents, Why Some Students Struggle with Math and What We Can Do About It, on November 12, 2019. The program presented some common difficulties children face in learning mathematics and reviewed strategies and hands-on activities that can support learning.

A full-day program for educators, clinicians and other professionals, Multisensory Math: Teaching Mathematics in a Standards-Based Curriculum, was held on November 11, 2019. Ms. Zecher presented multisensory interventions that teach the foundations of mathematical literacy and reviewed the research and neuroscience underpinning these interventions. Participants worked with a variety of hands-on instructional tools and manipulatives.

 

Distinguished Speaker Series

Lynn Meltzer, Ph.D. and Donna Kincaid, M.Ed.

2018-2019  On April 11, Dr. Lynn Meltzer presented an evening program for parents, The Child Beneath the Stress: Parenting Children with Executive Function Challenges. Dr. Meltzer explored the role of Executive Function in all aspects of academic success and drew on real-world experiences from classroom teachers and students who have overcome learning challenges.

On April 12, Dr. Meltzer and Ms. Kincaid facilitated a full-day workshop for educators, clinicians and other professionals. Executive Function Strategies: Optimizing Student Performance and Reducing Stress provided an overview of the important role of executive function processes in academic performance across grade levels and content areas. Practical approaches were discussed for promoting metacognitive awareness, flexible thinking, and executive function strategies as part of the classroom curriculum.

 

Ellen B. Braaten, Ph.D. and Patricia Quinn, M.D.

2017-2018  Dr. Braaten presented an evening program for parents, Parenting Bright Kids Who Can't Keep Up, on March 9. The program described the concept of processing speed and explained why it's important in today's fast-paced environments, and how to cope with a child who sometimes seems a step behind his potential.

A full-day program for educators, clinicians and other professionals, Hidden Obstacles to Student Success: ADHD in Girls and Slow Processing Speed, was held on March 19. Dr. Braaten spoke on the biology and neuropsychology of processing speed and how it manifests in classrooms and social relationships, and offered accommodations and interventions teachers and other professionals can use. Dr. Quinn spoke to the gender-specific manifestations of ADHD in preschool, elementary school and high school. She discussed the social/emotional challenges of girls with ADHD, and offered accommodations, interventions and treatments that can improve outcomes for girls with ADHD.

 

Distinguished Speaker Series
Distinguished Speaker Series

Jerome Schultz, Ph.D.

2016-2017  Dr. Jerome Schultz addressed parents on March 23 in a program entitled The Journey from Stress to Success for Students with LD/ADHD. Dr. Schultz explored chronic stress in school children and how stress impacts learning. The program reviewed the brain systems involved in the stress response and offered practical strategies that can reduce the cycle of stress.

In a full-day workshop for professionals entitled Stress: The Missing Piece of the LD/ADHD Puzzle, Dr. Schultz explored the neurobiology of stress and discussed the chronic stress that often accompanies LD and ADHD. Participants learned constructive ways of responding to stressed students and how the language they use can change students' mindsets and trajectories.

 

Thomas Brown, Ph.D. and Jack M. Fletcher, Ph.D., ABPP

2015-2016  In a program for parents, Executive Function, ADHD and Learning: A New Understanding, Dr. Thomas Brown dispelled common misperceptions about ADHD and presented scientific evidence that supports a new understanding of ADHD. He addressed the central role of Executive Function in meeting daily challenges and provided strategies for managing ADHD at school and at home.

Dr. Brown partnered with Dr. Jack Fletcher to present the full day workshop, Beyond the Stereotypes of ADHD and LD: Let the Experts Inform Your Work, for educators, clinicians and other professionals. Dr. Brown discussed new research on ADHD and the influence of temperament on emotion and motivation in students with ADHD. Participants learned about treatments and supports for students. Dr. Fletcher reviewed current research on learning disabilities and presented trends in teaching students with LD.

 

Distinguished Speaker Series
Distinguished Speaker Series

Peg Dawson, Ed.D., NCSP

2014-15  In the evening program for parents Calming the Chaos: Essential Skills That Help Smart but Scattered Students Reach Their Full Potential, Dr. Dawson explained how poor "executive skills" can impact achievement in school. Dr. Dawson offered strategies parents can use to help children acquire the critical skills they need to calm the chaos and become successful students.

 

 

Robert Brooks, Ph.D.

2013-2014  Dr. Robert Brooks presented Less Stress, More Balance: Keys to a Resilient Family on January 22. Parents who attended the program learned about healthy work/family balance, strategies for solving problems in the family, ways to foster self esteem within the family, and how to teach ownership and responsibility.

In the full-day professional development workshop Increasing Student Engagement: Strategies for Developing Motivated, Resilient Learners, Dr. Brooks guided educators and clinicians in examining the mindset they bring to their work with children. He explored the mindset of professionals who are effective in working with students and addressed the role of empathy in responding effectively to students. Participants learned strategies for reinforcing student engagement, motivation, learning, responsibility, caring and resilience.

Distinguished Speaker Series

Learn more about Center Programs:

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    Allison Oh
    M.A., CCC-SLP

    Allison holds a B.A. in Speech-language Pathology from Miami University with a minor in Disability Studies. She earned her M.A. in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Cincinnati. Allison previously completed clinical training in a variety of environments including a Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) traineeship through the University of Cincinnati Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCCEDD) and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC). Currently, Allison serves as a speech-language pathologist for Springer School and Center, an evaluator for Springer Diagnostic Center, and a therapist for Springer Learning Center.

    In her role, Allison aims to provide therapy that will allow her students to fully engage in the classroom as speakers and listeners. Her objective is to develop a comprehensive understanding of how each student creates meaning from language and how they express intended messages. Beyond the achievement of therapy goals, she strives to help her students become confident, self-advocating communicators through the development of self-awareness and incorporation of personal strategies. Her dynamic approach to assessment is centered around individualization, ensuring each student is provided appropriate accommodations. Allison is dedicated to providing families with insightful information about their child’s communication profile, and meaningful recommendations to assist with communication needs inside and outside of the classroom.

    Allison enjoys hobbies like crafting, golfing, and playing the guitar. She is a sports fan and live music/show enthusiast. Allison resides in Cincinnati with her 3-year old dog named Pepper.

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    Breanna Spears
    Administrative Assistant, B.A.

    Breanna earned her B.A. in Mass Communications from Savannah State University, where she developed a strong foundation in communication strategy, organizational storytelling, and supporting diverse communities. She brings over seven years of experience in Human Resources and Administrative roles within the finance sector, where she specialized in process development, employee support, workflow improvement, and operational coordination.

    Breanna now serves as the Center Administrative Assistant, supporting the Diagnostic Center’s daily operations. In her role, she assists with scheduling, billing, parent communication, and system organization to ensure a smooth and supportive experience for families and staff. Her background in HR and administration helps her create clear structures, anticipate needs, and maintain consistent communication across teams.

    Breanna is passionate about building processes that not only work—but make sense. She is deeply committed to bridging the gap between completing tasks and truly understanding the “why” behind them. Her goal is to contribute to an environment where clarity, compassion, and efficiency allow everyone—families, students, and colleagues—to feel informed and supported.

    Outside of work, Breanna enjoys gardening, home DIY projects, creating art, and traveling. She resides in Cincinnati with her husband and their two children.

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    Shelby Chamberlin
    Family Outreach Coordinator, M.Ed.

    Shelby earned her M.Ed. from the University of Cincinnati in Applied Behavior Analysis. Prior to that, she received her B.A. in Elementary Education with endorsements in Learning and Behavioral Disorders from Morehead State University. Shelby began her career as an intervention specialist teaching students with emotional and behavioral disorders. She continued her professional journey by joining the Springer team in 2021 as a fourth and fifth grade teacher. In her time at Springer she has worked as a classroom teacher, Adventures in Summer Learning teacher, tutor and now as the Family Outreach Coordinator.

    As Family Outreach Coordinator Shelby supports families looking for answers in the diagnostic evaluation process, as well as supporting families who may be interested in school year admissions or tutoring, and as director of the Adventures in Summer Learning Program.

    Shelby is a passionate sports fan, cheering on the Kentucky Wildcats and Cincinnati Bengals. She also enjoys cooking, hot pilates and being outside with her family. Shelby resides in Northern Kentucky with her spouse and daughter.

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    Alyson Caldwell
    Occupational Therapist, OTR/L

    Alyson earned her BS and MS degrees from Eastern Kentucky University. Alyson has prior experience working as an occupational therapist in outpatient pediatrics and skilled nursing rehabilitation before Springer. Alyson now serves as the team lead occupational therapist at Springer School in addition to Springer Diagnostic Center.

    As a school-based occupational therapist, Alyson is passionate about helping students develop the skills they need to participate fully and confidently in their learning environments. Alyson specializes in supporting handwriting development and executive functioning, with a focus on helping students become more independent, engaged learners. Alyson believes in meeting each student where they are, building on their strengths, and collaborating with educators and families to develop meaningful and practical goals and strategies that truly support each student’s growth.

    Alyson enjoys yoga, being outside with her dogs, antique hunting, and cheering on the Bengals. Alyson is a soon-to-be first time mom and resides in Northern Kentucky with her husband.

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    Bradley Paramore
    School Psychologist, Ed.S, NCSP

    Bradley earned his Ed.S and M.Ed. degrees from John Carroll University. Prior to that, he received his B.A. in Psychology and Sociology from Case Western Reserve University. Bradley served as a lead psychologist in public schools for over 10 years. He has previously served as the President of the Ohio School Psychologists Association and held several other leadership positions within the National Association of School Psychologists and Ohio School Psychologists Association. His experiences include serving on various working groups for the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce and the Ohio Department of Public Safety before joining Springer.

    Bradley is passionate about providing comprehensive support to families that identifies the root cause of concerns. His goal is to provide evaluations that highlight a student’s strengths as well as proven strategies that can help a student thrive.

    Bradley is a passionate sports fan and former college football coach. He enjoys attending comedy shows, live music events, traveling, and listening to podcasts. Bradley resides in Cincinnati with his wife and 2 children.

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    Ann Kilpatrick
    Occupational Therapist, OT/L

    Ann earned both her B.A. in International Studies and her M.S. in Occupational Therapy from The Ohio State University. She has prior experience working as an occupational therapist in adult acute care and inpatient rehab.  In 2012 she began working as a school-based occupational therapist at Springer School.  Ann now works as part of the Springer Diagnostic Center Team. 

    Ann believes that given the support they need, each student is able to reach their full academic potential. In her role as part of the diagnostic team, she seeks to provide individualized assessment data to identify motor needs and use that data to suggest potential interventions that can be used by families and educators in order to best support the child.

    Ann enjoys spending time with her kids, hiking, travelling, yoga, and reading.  She lives with her husband, 3 children, and 2 dogs in Cincinnati. 

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    Deborah Gilbert
    Clinical Psychologist, Ph.D.

    Dr. Gilbert earned her B.A. from the University of Michigan, took a gap year to teach English in Japan and travel through Asia, and then earned a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Detroit Mercy.  She also completed a 3-year postdoctoral residency at Chestnut Lodge Hospital, provided therapy and psychological assessments in inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, and served children and families of greater Cincinnati public schools conducting psychological evaluations.  Dr. Gilbert is happy to have joined the Springer Diagnostic Center team in 2024.

    Dr. Gilbert believes in the potential of young people and works with them to make the world a better place.  In the evaluation process, she wants you and your child to feel understood and supported.  Dr. Gilbert strives to understand the whole child and build an actionable and evidence-based plan for parents and teachers to support the success of the child. 

    Dr. Gilbert’s personal passions include her family, traveling, hot yoga, and book club.  She and her husband have been married 30 years, have 2 adult daughters, 2 beautiful grandchildren, and a sweet Cavachon dog named Marigold. 

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    Molly Bernosky
    School Psychologist, Ed.S., M.Ed.

    Molly earned her Ed.S. and M.Ed. degrees from the University of Cincinnati. Prior to that, she received her B.A. in Psychology from the University of Kentucky. Molly has served as the lead school psychologist in public schools, public school administrator overseeing special education teams, and testing psychologist at an ADHD clinic before arriving at Springer. Molly was a founding member of Springer Diagnostic Center and now serves as the Diagnostic Center Director.

    Molly is passionate about providing evaluation experiences that feel approachable, collaborative, and strengths-based. Her goal is for families to feel listened to, validated, and supported throughout an evaluation process.

    Molly’s hobbies include hiking, listening to podcasts, attending live music and comedy shows, coaching youth sports, and participating in community events. Molly resides with her husband and 2 children in Cincinnati.