The Virginia Virtual Down Syndrome Speaker Series

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

*register by Friday 2/16 for interpretation services (update: interpretation services are canceled for this event due to no requests for services)

Full Speaker Lineup:

Tuesday, February 20
6:30-7:45
Full Life: Setting our Kids Up to Thrive as Adults
Amy Julia Becker, mother of an individual with Down syndrome

7:45-8:30
More Alike Than Different
David Egan, self-advocate with Down syndrome

Thursday, February 22
6:30-7:30
Empowering Emotional Regulation and Prosocial Behaviors
Sarah Schmitt, Behavioral & Educational Consultant

7:30-8:30
Fostering Independence
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
Dr. Anya Evmenova, George Mason University

7:30-8:30
Competence, Autonomy & Relatedness
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
Holly Peele, Director Northstar Career Center

7:30-8:30 pm
Just Human: The Quest for Disability Wisdom, Respect, and Inclusion
Arielle Silverman, Disabled activist, Social scientist, and Author