New Board Members for NDSS Focused on Inclusion
The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is thrilled to announce the addition of six distinguished individuals to its Board of Directors. This change comes following a merger with the LuMind IDSC Foundation, which strengthens NDSS’s commitment to supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
Meet the New Board Members
Among the newly appointed board members are Anthony Providenti, Hector Guinness, LaSandra Brill, Karen Gaffney, Beverly Paperiello, and Ludivine Van der Heyden. Each brings a unique set of skills and perspectives that will be invaluable to the NDSS mission.
Anthony Providenti
Anthony Providenti, who held a key position at the LuMind IDSC Foundation, is an advisor and board member across various industries. With experience as a senior executive at Mars Incorporated and Heska Corporation, he is well-equipped to navigate the organizational landscape. Importantly, Providenti is a father to a son with Down syndrome, which fuels his passion for advocacy.
Hector Guinness
Hector Guinness, part of Hg—a private equity firm—has varied life experiences from living in London to his current base in New York. His personal connection to the Down syndrome community comes through his son, Alfred, inspiring him to contribute to NDSS.
LaSandra Brill
LaSandra Brill, currently the Vice President of Global Digital Marketing at NVIDIA, has a strong marketing background and a history of board service, including roles with Abilities United and Special Olympics. She advocates for her daughter Avery, who has Down syndrome, ensuring visibility and support for similar families.
Karen Gaffney
As the President of the Karen Gaffney Foundation, Karen Gaffney dedicates her focus to championing inclusivity for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Renowned for her achievement as the first person with Down syndrome to give a TED talk, Karen continues to break barriers with her inspiring accomplishments.
Beverly Paperiello
Beverly Paperiello brings over three decades of experience in drug development consulting within the biopharmaceutical sphere, highlighting her expertise to steer clinical progress and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome through her professional endeavors.
Ludivine Van der Heyden
Ludivine Van der Heyden is an attorney dedicated to developing a pro bono immigration practice while advocating for families dealing with special education litigation. As a mother to a daughter with Down syndrome, she embodies active involvement and legal expertise to support families in need.
The Board's Upcoming Responsibilities
The enhanced board will convene quarterly starting December 2025, focusing on shaping the organization’s strategic plan set to launch in mid-2026. Their mission will revolve around continuing to foster a supportive environment and representing families across various geographic backgrounds in the United States.
About the National Down Syndrome Society
NDSS aims to establish a world where individuals with Down syndrome can flourish. Through dedicated programs on resources, advocacy, and community engagement, NDSS has cemented its role as a frontrunner in addressing the concerns and needs of this community. The organization is behind initiatives such as the National Buddy Walk Program and various advocacy conferences aimed at furthering awareness and understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the NDSS Board of Directors?
The NDSS Board of Directors aims to provide governance and direction for the organization to effectively support individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
How do the new board members contribute to NDSS?
The new board members bring a wealth of experience from diverse industries and personal connections to the Down syndrome community, enhancing NDSS's strategic vision and advocacy efforts.
What initiatives will the NDSS focus on in the upcoming years?
In the upcoming years, NDSS will focus on programs that promote inclusion, advocacy, research, and support for individuals with Down syndrome, leveraging the expertise of its board members.
Where can I find more information about NDSS?
More information about NDSS and its programs can be found on its official website, where various resources and community events are detailed.
Who can get involved with NDSS?
Anyone interested in supporting individuals with Down syndrome or wanting to participate in advocacy efforts can get involved with NDSS through volunteering or attending events.
