Welcome to the Linden Oaks FAQ page! Here, we answer common questions about our recent name change from Speech and Language Development Center to Linden Oaks. This transition reflects our growth and commitment to providing a nurturing, inclusive environment for all. Explore the FAQs below to learn more about our new name and feel free to reach out to info@sldc.net if we have not answered your question. Thank you for being a part of this exciting new chapter with Linden Oaks!
Why is Speech and Language Development Center changing names?
We are transitioning to Linden Oaks to better represent who we are today and where we are headed.
While “Speech and Language Development Center” highlighted a specific part of our organization, we have evolved to be much more than a speech clinic. The new name allows us to reflect the full spectrum of services we provide, which today includes education, therapy, adult day programming, and soon an intensive outpatient program (IOP) and in-home ABA services.
The decision to change our name is also driven by the desire to move away from stigmatizing, deficit-focused language, creating a more dignified and empowering identity for our students, clients, and families.
To illustrate the impact this shift can have on the individuals we serve, a student once asked his teacher if she could send a bus without our name on the side to pick him up for school and drop him off. Though he loved the school and was making progress, the name was a reminder of the differences he felt set him apart from his neighborhood peers. His story is one of many that motivated us to choose a name that embraces the individuality and dignity of every person in our care.
Our new name, Linden Oaks, symbolizes strength, growth, and shelter—core values that reflect the supportive community we strive to create. Our mission remains unchanged: to provide high-quality, compassionate care, education, and therapies, and this new name allows us to continue doing so in a way that reflects the future we envision.
What is the significance of the name Linden Oaks?
The name Linden Oaks holds deep symbolic meaning, reflecting both our past and the future we envision. The linden tree is often associated with qualities of healing, protection, and community—values that align perfectly with our mission to provide comprehensive care, education, and therapy. Linden trees are known for their ability to create a calming and welcoming space, just as we strive to create a nurturing, supportive environment for everyone who walks through our doors.
The oak tree also plays a significant role in our history and legacy. Founded in 1955 by Dr. Aleen Agranowitz and Gladys Gleason, Gladys affectionately referred to Aleen as the “oak tree” and herself as the “acorn,” symbolizing the seeds of innovation planted to fulfill the future Aleen envisioned and that they both worked to bring to life [note: edited 11/11/24 to attribute proper oak and acorn symbolism to respective founders]. Together, they built the foundation of what is now Linden Oaks. Their pioneering spirit and partnership represent the balance between vision and action, a legacy that lives on in the work we do today.
The name also honors Aleen’s New England roots, where both linden and oak trees are native. Aleen was born in Waterbury, Connecticut, and raised in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. By choosing Linden Oaks, we connect to her heritage while symbolizing the strength, resilience, and growth that define our approach.
Just as an oak tree grows tall and provides stability and shelter, Linden Oaks stands as a place where individuals can thrive, grow, and receive the support they need to achieve their full potential.
This name reflects not only the care we provide, but also the collaborative, enduring spirit of our founders, staff, and community.
Will the name change affect the services provided?
No, the name change will not affect the services we provide. We remain fully committed to offering the same high-quality care, education, and therapeutic support that has been central to our mission for nearly 70 years. In fact, the transition to Linden Oaks coincides with the introduction of two new service lines—an intensive outpatient program and in-home ABA services—further deepening our commitment to meet the evolving needs of individuals and their families.
How will this transition impact current students and their families?
The transition to Linden Oaks will not disrupt the care or support that our current students and families receive. The core of who we are and what we do remains the same. Our teachers, therapists, and staff will continue their work with the same dedication and expertise you have come to count on, and all programs will continue as usual. We are making every effort to ensure that the transition is smooth and seamless, and we will keep families informed every step of the way. Our goal is for the name change to enhance the sense of community and inclusivity, without creating any disruptions to services.
What steps are being taken to address concerns from long-time supporters and the community?
We understand that a name change can raise concerns, especially for those who have a long history with the organization. To address this, we have actively engaged with our supporters, staff, and the community throughout the process. We’ve shared the reasons for the change, emphasizing that while our name is evolving, our commitment to our mission and values remains steadfast. We’re also honoring our founders and the history of Speech and Language Development Center by keeping their pioneering spirit at the heart of our new identity.
For long-time supporters, we are working to ensure the new name resonates with the legacy they’ve helped build, and we’re offering opportunities for open dialogue. By making this transition with transparency and care, we hope to bring our community along with us as we move into this exciting new chapter.
Who decided to change the name, and what was the process?
The decision to change our name from Speech and Language Development Center (SLDC) to Linden Oaks was the result of a thoughtful, multi-year process that involved extensive input from a wide range of stakeholders. We gathered feedback from select members of our staff, former staff, parents, donors, Board of Directors, and external consultants to ensure that the new name aligned with both our mission and our community’s needs.
This name change is part of a broader effort to position our organization for future growth and innovation, and it was carefully integrated into our strategic planning process. Throughout this journey, we remained committed to honoring our rich history while embracing a name that better reflects the full range of services we now offer.
The final decision was made with unanimous agreement from our Board of Directors, who believe that Linden Oaks represents the strength, inclusivity, and vision that will carry us into the next chapter of our work. This collaborative process ensures that the name is not only a reflection of our values but also a shared commitment to the future of the organization.
Why is the name change happening now?
Our 70th anniversary in 2025 marks a significant milestone in our history, making it the perfect moment to transition to a name that better reflects who we are today and where we’re headed in the future. Over the years, awareness around diverse abilities and building communities of acceptance has evolved. The language we use is an important part of creating an inclusive environment, and the name Linden Oaks aligns with this broader understanding, ensuring that everyone we serve feels respected and supported.
This change has been a topic of discussion for quite some time, even among our founders. As early as the beginning, they understood that our mission would grow and adapt over time. Now, with our expanded services and a commitment to providing holistic, individualized support, the time has come to embrace a name that speaks to our broader scope while honoring the legacy we’ve built.
The timing also coincides with the expanding conversation around the power of language to shape perceptions and foster inclusion, making this the right moment to make a meaningful change.
How can I provide feedback or ask additional questions about the name change?
We value your input and want to ensure that all of your questions and concerns about the name change are heard. You can provide feedback or ask additional questions in several ways:
- Email Us: Please feel free to send your questions or feedback to info@sldc.net, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
- Speak to Us in Person: If you prefer a one-on-one conversation, we encourage you to reach out to any member of our Leadership team, who will be happy to listen and address your concerns.
Your feedback is crucial as we navigate this transition, and we welcome all questions so that we can provide clarity and reassurance during this process.
What will happen to the existing branding and materials with the old name?
We will be transitioning to the new Linden Oaks branding over the course of several months to ensure a smooth shift. This includes updating all materials such as signage, digital assets, and printed materials. Here’s how we are managing the transition:
- Historical References: We honor our 69-year legacy as Speech and Language Development Center, and where relevant, we will mention both names to help long-time supporters and partners recognize the change.
- Digital Updates: Our website, social media, and email communications will begin reflecting the Linden Oaks name shortly. We will provide reminders and updates to ensure there is no confusion during this time.
- Gradual Phase-Out: Existing materials featuring the Speech and Language Development Center name will be used until supplies are exhausted or until they are naturally replaced, to avoid unnecessary waste. We will begin to transition physical signage in the coming months as well.
Our goal is to make this transition as seamless as possible while being mindful of resources and ensuring everyone is informed. If you come across materials or references that seem unclear, please let us know, and we will work to address them.
