Sept. 22, 2008

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Excellence on the field and in the classroom is tough for any student athlete. But for student-athletes with learning differences, achieving academically can be twice as hard. The University of Louisville's Athletic Department and Meredith-Dunn School are partnering to benefit student athletes with learning differences.

Dawn Aulick, a Meredith-Dunn learning specialist, is working with the U of L Academic Counseling unit, led by Associate Athletic Director Marvin Mitchell, to provide specialized support to athletes having diagnosed learning disabilities and other learning differences. She is located on campus and will monitor their progress, arrange classroom accommodations, support the students' study skills, as well as provide individual tutoring.

Meredith-DunnSchoolhas been providing diagnostic and evaluation services for the U of L Athletic Department for many years. Statistics show that 1 in every 12 people suffers from a learning difficulty or disability. A learning disability is a permanent disorder that affects the manner in which individuals acquire, retain, and express information. Learning disabilities are not a reflection of a person's intelligence or ability. In fact, the majority of people with such difficulties are of average or above average intelligence.

"We're looking forward to this partnership," says Kathy Beam, Head of School, Meredith-Dunn School. "We are happy to be taking our expertise into the community. And we are especially thrilled to be a part of the excellence exhibited by the University of Louisville's Athletic Department."

Meredith-Dunn School is an independent, K-8 school for 200 bright children with learning differences. For over 36 years, the faculty has provided prescriptive instruction to empower students in becoming accomplished learners and resilient individuals. This commitment to learners now extends beyond the confines of the school and includes the student athletes at the University of Louisville. Additionally, Meredith-Dunn School's outreach services offer evaluations and diagnostics to people of all ages, summer enrichment programs, corporate team evaluations, and professional development.