Jennifer Ford
Executive Director, Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas (DSG)
Jennifer Ford was named Executive Director of the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas (DSG) in 2014. She began with the DSG in 2007. After a couple of years on staff, Jennifer utilized her Texas Educator Certificate and taught elementary special education in Castleberry ISD. While the opportunity to work with children and families within the district was rewarding, Jennifer still had a special connection with the DSG. Returning to the Guild in 2011, Jennifer oversaw multiple aspects of the organization’s endeavors as the Operations Manager before taking the reigns as the Executive Director.
Jennifer earned her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Louisiana State University in Shreveport. In her senior year, Jennifer worked full-time for the local CASA organization and remained on staff following graduation until relocating to the DFW area. It was working for CASA that allowed her to realize her passion for the non-profit sector.
In efforts to continue her professional development for her role with the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas, Jennifer has earned certifications in both Non-Profit Management and Non-Profit Leadership through CNM Connect and Southern Methodist University.
Jennifer has not only been a voice for local families, but she has worked to help the efforts for those with Down syndrome by serving on national committees for the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC), and Down Syndrome Affiliates in Action (DSAIA). She also currently serves as a lead teacher through her church’s special needs ministry.