The Louisiana Center for Dyslexia and Related Learning Disorders will present a conference to inform and offer services related to dyslexia research and programs. The conference will be held Jan. 31 in Peltier Hall with the theme “Unmasking their potential.”Dyslexia is defined as a learning disorder marked by impairment of the ability to recognize and comprehend written words. One of several learning disabilities, dyslexia is a specific language-based disorder characterized by difficulties in single word decoding.

According to the National Institute of Health, dyslexia affects about 15 percent of the population of the United States. Scientists have linked dyslexia to specific brain malfunctions most often in the left hemisphere of the brain.

Nicholls State’s dyslexia center provides support for college students of every major and classification and also provides comprehensive assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. Nicholls’ teachers and professors can receive training through classes and workshops. After-school tutoring programs are available in Thibodaux, Houma and Morgan City.

“We are receiving an overwhelming response regarding the upcoming conference. We have also begun making preparations for the center’s annual summer camp, and our tutoring centers are set to begin their spring sessions during the week of Jan. 26.,” Karen Chauvin, dyslexia center director said in a press release.

The conference is sponsored by Coastal Commerce Bank, Giardina Family Foundation and the Louisiana branch of the International Dyslexia Association.

Rob Langston, president of the Langston Company Inc. and chairman and CEO of the For the Children Foundation, will deliver the keynote address. Other speakers and presenters will include staff from the Louisiana Center for Dyslexia and Related Learning Disorders, members of the board of directors of the Louisiana branch of the International Dyslexia Association and Region 1 Educational Service Center and the Parent Training and Information Center representatives.

Registration will cost $55 per participant and will continue until the day of the conference. Students with a valid Nicholls I.D. will be admitted for $20 per participant. These fees will cover a continental breakfast and lunch.

For additional information, or to register for the conference, contact the dyslexia center at (985) 448-4214.