When Brandon Kartes was attending a short-term program for elementary students at NDVS/SB in the early 2000s, Vision Rehabilitation Specialist Pam Haus offered him a pickle. “She always made her students and clients try new things,” he said. And while he was initially scared to try them, “I’ve liked pickles to this day.”
It is these everyday lessons that can make a profound difference in the lives of students and adult clients. Getting them to try new tasks, new foods, or anything that someone new to vision loss never thought they’d do again – that is what Pam likes most about her job at North Dakota Vision Services/School for the Blind. “Being able to teach them even one thing on that first visit that they thought they could no longer do is great to see, and it gives them hope and encouragement to try and learn more.” Read more about Pam and her job at NDVS/SB below.
Why did you decide to go into the vision field?
I would have to say the vision field found me. In my 20 years at NDVS/SB, I have held a few different positions. I started as a part-time administrative assistant and at the same time worked part-time for the ND Deafblind Project. I have worked as an administrative assistant, receptionist, technology assistant, vision assistant, and my current position is as a Vision Rehabilitation Specialist.
What is your educational background?
I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Phoenix. I received certification in the Vision Specialist Program through Mississippi State University.
What is your role at NDVS/SB?
I am part of an awesome team! I work with adults on the eastern side of the state. I help them adjust and adapt to their vision loss in their home, community, and workplace. The goal is to help them continue to live independently. I assist in all areas, including daily living skills, orientation and mobility, technology, braille, leisure and recreation, magnification, and finding other resources that they may be interested in.
I am often the first contact a new client has with NDVS/SB, and I like that I have the opportunity to share what we can offer them and share with them how I can help them continue to live independently with vision loss. To see the reaction of hope is so fulfilling.
Tell us about your family and your time away from work.
I am the mother of 3 adult children: 1 daughter and twin boys, with one grandson and another grandson due in October! My husband and I enjoy spending time with our family and participating in outdoor activities like hunting and fishing. I also enjoy knitting and reading a good book.
To contact Pam, call 701-795-2719 or email phaus@nd.gov
