Join us for our 2024 Virtual Down Syndrome Speaker Series!
Dismantling Ableism: Empowering Individuals with Down Syndrome to Thrive
The VDSA in-person Education Conference returns in 2025
4-night Virtual Speaker Series designed to empower, educate, connect, and inspire. *Spanish and ASL interpretation provided
Connect with other caregivers and allies of individuals with Down syndrome during this 4-night virtual speaker series. There will be two thought-provoking topics each evening – pick the ones that interest you most or attend them all. The ticket price covers all 8 sessions! We will engage with self-advocates, parents, disability advocates, and experts in the field.
*Scholarships available, email sklauer@virginiadsa.org for more information
This Year’s Schedule:
Tuesday, February 20
6:30-7:45
Full Life: Setting our Kids Up to Thrive as Adults
Speaker: Amy Julia Becker, mother of an individual with Down syndrome
7:45-8:30
More Alike Than Different
Speaker: David Egan, self-advocate with Down syndrome
Thursday, February 22
6:30-7:30
Empowering Emotional Regulation and Prosocial Behaviors
Speaker: Sarah Schmitt, Behavioral & Educational Consultant
7:30-8:30
Fostering Independence
Speaker: Dana Halle, Co-Founder & Executive Director of the Down Syndrome Foundation of Orange County California
Tuesday, February 27
6:30-7:30
Assistive Technology: Supporting Independence
Speaker: Dr. Anya Evmenova, George Mason University
7:30-8:30
Competence, Autonomy & Relatedness
Speaker: Kendal Swartzentruber, Brandon Stees, self-advocate with Down syndrome
Thursday, February 29
6:30-7:30
Know What to Ask: Advocating for My or My Transition-Age Child’s Long-Term Needs
Speaker:Holly Peele, Northstar Career Academy
7:30-8:30
Just Human: The Quest for Disability Wisdom, Respect, and Inclusion
Speaker: Arielle Silverman, Disabled activist, Social scientist, and Author
Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors
All Sessions Sponsors
One Session Sponsors
Scholarship Sponsors
In-Kind Sponsors
