Center is up for new name

Judy Price claims that since the term "developmental" is already outdated in describing disabled people, the Utah State Developmental Center deserves a new name.

Price is circulating a petition to change the name to the Mount Timpanogos Center."Names become obsolete or politically incorrect. Some names that may have been accepted are offensive now," she said.

She compares the term developmental to now-offensive words like insane, retarded and handicapped and wants a name for the center that doesn't include any reference to those served there.

"The name Mount Timpanogos Center would stand strong against such sociological changes," Price said.

The center has already been renamed once. In 1991, it was changed from the Utah State Training School, given that terms like training school and handicapped became outmoded and offensive.

Price said changing the name to exclude a faddish term would be the last change.

"A major name change will never again be necessary due to changes in acceptable terminology," the petition says. "Timpanogos is a name that will remain constant."

Price also said the name should reflect the area.

"The majestic Timpanogos Center stands above the center like a sentinel, guarding and protecting its residents," the petition says.

Also, Price said the new name would be easier to remember.

"Many of our citizens still refer to the Developmental Center as the Training School. There's confusion about what it is," Price said.

She also said the center needs a stronger public image, something the Timpanogos name could provide.

Price said about 200 people have signed petitions spread throughout American Fork. The name would have to be changed in state law. She said if the "developmental" moniker is required to give the center a distinctive description, she then suggests Mount Timpanogos Developmental Center.

Joe Gordon, center superintendent, said he supports a name change if it's valid. He is worried about how much it would cost to change the sign and letterhead.

"Is the benefit going to be worth the cost?" he asked.

Price contends that it is cost effective since the name would never have to be changed again.

Sue Marquardt, associate director of the Division of Services for People with Disabilities, said she would not be averse to a name change. But it should still provide an idea of what happens at the center, which would likely entail keeping the word developmental in the title, she said.