2025 was a record year for GLOBAL at the NDSC Convention, as we hosted our largest Research & Medical Care Roundtable ever! Combined with our 11 amazing workshops led by the nation’s top Dow syndrome experts, GLOBAL educated over 1,000 people while in Dallas. A recap of topics and speakers is listed below. Keep an eye on your inbox, as the Roundtable speaker Q&A will be sent to GLOBAL Members on or before August 14th!

Huge Audience at GLOBAL Roundtable

Over 600 people registered for GLOBAL’s free, informative Roundtable, now in its 13^th year. Our wonderful speakers shared issues and milestones in research and medical care for people with Down syndrome. Speakers included: Quincy Jones Award Recipient David Egan, and Global scientists & clinicians Dr. Mike Rafii, Dr. Laurie Ryan, Dr. Joaquín Espinosa, Dr. Ignacia Tapia, Dr. Thessa Hilgenkamp, and Dr. Noemi Spinazzi. Our Expert speakers covered important topics like updates on Alzheimer’s Clinical Trials, the immune system, Pediatric communication tips, sleep apnea, fitness and health, and more!  

GLOBAL’s 2025 NDSC Research & Medical Care Roundtable Recap

First GLOBAL Presentation to Youth & Adult

First GLOBAL Ambassador, Sophia Whitten, GLOBAL VP, Bryn Gelaro, and Denver Health Adult Clinic Provider, Dr. Nick Breitnauer presented to a packed room of adults with Down syndrome, the participants in NDSC’s Youth & Adult (Y&A) Conference. This was GLOBAL Teams first time ever presenting to Y&A and it was a great success! The session covered the basics of the GLOBAL Adult Guideline, encouraged self-determination and shared decision-making in doctors offices. There were quizzes and prizes, too!   

Left to right: Dr. Laurie Ryan, Dr. Mike Rafii, Dr. Joaquin Espinosa, and Michelle Sie Whitten 

Captivating Workshops

Global scientists, clinicians, Down syndrome experts, and self-advocates presented thoughtful workshops on everything from aging in adults with Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s to teaching motor skills to advocacy training and more.

Toilet Training 2 Years and Beyond
Lina Patel, PsyD; Kimberly Yaeger

Neurological and Neurodevelopmental Conditions in Down Syndrome
Nicole Baumer, MD, MEd

Investigación internacional sobre el síndrome de Down: Estados Unidos, América Latina y más allá
Joaquín Espinosa, PhD; Nabyl Ortiz

DS-ASD: Cracking the Code of Behaviors
Lina Patel, PsyD; Terese Unnerstall

Preparing for a Successful Clinic Visit for the Neurodiverse Individual
Jennifer Harris, MSE; Allison Meyer, PhD; Lina Patel, PsyD

Promoting Optimal Health in Down Syndrome – What Caregivers Need to Know
Nicole Baumer, MD, Med; Marilyn Bull, MD; Stephanie Santoro, MD; Kishore Vellody, MD

Regression in Down Syndrome – What is it and What do I do About it?
Joaquín Espinosa, PhD; George Capone, MD; Cathy Franklin, PSY; Lina Patel, PsyD; Eileen Quinn, MD

Promoting Health After 30: Supporting Aging Adults and Their Caregivers
Huntington Potter, PhD; Dennis McGuire, PhD, LCSW; David Egan

Evidence-based Solutions for Challenging Behaviors and Developmental Concerns in Children with Down Syndrome
Nicole Baumer, MD, MEd; Anna Esbensen, PhD, FAPA, FAAIDD; Deborah Fidler, PhD; Marie Moore Channell, PhD

The Latest Discoveries in Down Syndrome Research: Cutting-Edge Clinical Trials and Groundbreaking Results
Joaquín Espinosa, PhD; David Egan

Psychiatric Diagnosis or Down Syndrome Regression Disorder
Dr. Elise Sannar, PhD ; Dr. Lina Patel, PsyD

For more information on any of our workshops or speakers, contact membership@globaldownsyndrome.org.