South Central
HKNC Regional Network
Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas
Contact Info:
Baton Rouge, LA 70884
Leanne Cook (Regional Representative)
Mobile: 516-965-1039 (Call/Text)
VP: 225-330-8192
lcook@helenkeller.org
Amalia Davila (Administrative Assistant)
Mobile: 516-460-6702 (Text)
VP: 310-953-4740
adavila@helenkeller.org
Regional Representative Leanne Cook
Our regional offices bring HKNC resources to you.
Your regional representative knows all about the programs and services that are available to DeafBlind individuals, their families and service providers in your state and beyond, and can help you find and access the ones that are right for you.
Whether you’re interested in learning about support services near your home, would like to take advantage of the technology available through the National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program or want to explore the possibility of training at our national headquarters, your regional representative is your link to all that HKNC has to offer ─ consultation, advocacy, assessment, training, referrals and more.
Meet the representatives and specialists in your region.
Leanne Cook
Regional Representative
Leanne Cook proudly serves as the Region 6 Representative, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted passion for the DeafBlind community.
Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Leanne’s career has been dedicated to supporting individuals with sensory impairments. Her journey began with attendance at an interpreter training program, sparking her interest in deafblindness. Joining the team at the National Center on Deaf-Blindness, she participated in the development of the Open Hands Open Access Intervener (OHOA) Training Modules.
Driven by a desire to expand her knowledge, Leanne pursued a Master of Science degree in Special Education: Visually Impaired Learners from Portland State University. This education equipped her to work closely with blind and DeafBlind youth as a teacher of the visually impaired. After transitioning into a role supporting educational teams in Oregon, Leanne focused on meeting the unique needs of DeafBlind children and building competency and capacity throughout the state.
She remains committed to continuing her journey of service and making a positive impact in Region 6, grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a vibrant community.
Outside of work, Leanne enjoys water sports and spending quality time with her friends, family, and beloved dog.
Local & Community Services
Are you interested in getting involved in the DeafBlind community in the South Central Region? Your regional representative can provide information about social gatherings, conferences, listservs and more. Check this space for announcements about upcoming events or contact your regional representative to request email notifications.
Ask your regional representative about:
- The National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program
- Local services and referrals
- On-site assessment, consultation, and training
- Making connections with other individuals and families within the DeafBlind community
- Technical assistance and in-service training
- Plans for youth transitioning from educational programs to post-educational services
- Educational materials and presentations about the capabilities and preferences of people with combined vision and hearing loss