Delta Zeta member and criminology major, Victoria Underwood, shares her passion for Early Childhood Learning by pledging to support the School of Communication Science & Disorders’ planned Integrated Preschool Program. She is supporting the organization’s philanthropic goal of donating $10,000 per year for five years toward the College of Communication & Information School of Communication Science & Disorders’ planned Integrated Preschool Program. Underwood has committed $1,000 of her own resources to support the program.
The difficulties children with communication impairments endure are familiar for Underwood because she experienced significant hearing loss in one ear when she was child. “Thankfully, I had a teacher who worked with me to not just learn how to read but to excel in reading and everything I do,” remarked Underwood.
Underwood says that the preschool will help children receive access to important learning tools that she believes they will need to succeed. The program seeks to bring together children with and without communication impairments through active play, which will assist with their growth and development. It will allow FSU students in the communication, education, special education and psychology program to gain training and clinical experience as well. Also, the preschool will bring plenty of research opportunities for faculty members in early language and literacy interventions for children with speech and language disabilities. These are just some of many benefits this program will provide.
Along with her sorority sisters, Underwood continues to encourage positive change in children’s lives through fundraisers and volunteering opportunities. “You do not have to give a lot to make a significant difference in the lives of others,” she states. With her determination and the solid efforts from Delta Zeta’s national philanthropic donations, more students are getting involved in improving speech and hearing impairment research programs, as well as aid for children with hearing disabilities.