SPLS
About the Reading Center & Clinic
Dorothy J. McGinnis Reading Center & Clinic
About the Reading Center & Clinic
3514 Sangren
Phone: (269) 387-3470
Homer J. Carter, an innovator
in reading research and diagnosis, founded the Psycho-Educational Clinic
in 1932 on the campus of Western Michigan University to provide clinical
services. In 1970, the name was changed to the Reading Center and Clinic
to better reflect an emphasis on diagnostic testing and support services.
Dorothy J. McGinnis succeeded Homer Carter as director in 1964, further
expanding clinic services to the community as well as continuing to
contribute to the development of reading theory and practice. In 1977,
Dorothy E. Smith accepted the director position, followed by the appointment
of Joe Chapel in 1988. In 1996, the clinic was dedicated to Dr. McGinnis
and renamed in honor of her numerous contributions to the field.
Over a period spanning nearly 70 years, the Reading Center and Clinic has provided numerous clinical, research, and diagnostic services to a diverse population of children, university students, and adults in our local and surrounding communities. Throughout its history, the clinic has continued to provide on-going functions while expanding services in literacy. In more recent years, the clinic has served as a practicum experience for undergraduate and graduate students in diagnostic assessment and instruction. The goal is to continue to expand services and broaden community outreach efforts.
