Priscilla is the proud mother of Sophia Estrello, a twelve-year-old with Down syndrome. Her advocacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) began the day Sophia was born. Since then, she has dedicated herself to ensuring that people with IDD have equal opportunities and the support they deserve. She honorably serves as the President of the Down Syndrome Coalition Board, where she strives to advocate for people with disabilities and work to break down barriers. She is committed to creating meaningful change through education, independence, and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. In her current role as the MFP Coordinator with the Emergence Transition Care Program, she aspires to connect individuals and encourage parents who may have fear or uncertainty about what their child with IDD is capable of achieving. “I do not see disability; I see ability”, she says, “limitless thinking should be at the forefront of our minds as parents of children who are challenged but are true overcomers”. She is retired from both the State of Texas and the Navy Reserves and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Psychology from Park University and a Master’s degree from New Mexico State University and is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor-Intern (LCDC-I), and a certified Life Coach. Along with advocacy work, she has taught as an adjunct professor at UOP and Park University. One of her greatest joys is supporting Sophia as she pursues her dreams and gains confidence toward an independent lifestyle, contributing to her community. Sophia is proud to be part of the first graduating class and alumni of Every Little Blessing preschool, which has been pivotal in preparing her with the strengths she needs as she enters her academic years.

Lydia is the proud mother of six-year-old, Noah. He has been through so much in his young life from foster care, adoption, Down Syndrome, autism, cancer and various medical challenges but she knows that of everything he lives with, Down Syndrome is the only one that she would never change. Since the day she met her son, Lydia has dedicated her life to advocating for him and making sure that he has every opportunity to be a functional member of society. She understands the importance of community support and awareness and strives to advocate for individuals like her son. Every Little Blessing Preschool has been a huge blessing in their lives. They’ve demonstrated the potential that students with disabilities can have when inclusion is the priority. She hopes to be this type of strength and support to others through her volunteer work. She volunteers her time with a childhood cancer organization and now serves as the Vice-President of the Down Syndrome Coalition for El Paso. She is extremely grateful to be in a position where she can empower and advocate for the Down Syndrome community.

Evan George Vourazeris is an actor who plays “Tuck” on Netflix’s award-winning Series Ozark. He began his professional acting career in 2017 on Jason Bateman’s award-winning Series as a recurring character. Through his character, Evan inspires people of all abilities to achieve their dreams and has given hope to parents across the world.

His love of acting came from watching movies with his father and the well-placed suggestion from a friend Anna Brodl that he should put his talent to good use after making his acting debut in her student film in 2010.

He took on advocating after his brother, an orthopedic surgeon, and speaker inspired him to use his experiences and reach out to inspire other people as well. Since 2013 Evan has visited schools, churches, and sports events throughout Texas and has spoken to over 500,000 kids and families about bullying and cyberbullying, and inspirational and motivational speaking to empower them to reach for their dreams.

“My message is simple, stay strong, never give up and go for your dream!” -Evan

Anna Alvarez a native El Pasoan and a proud graduate of the University of Texas at El Paso where she obtained a bachelor’s in special education and a master’s degree in special education with an emphasis in Autism. For the past four years, she has served as a Reading Language Arts & Social Studies Instructional Officer at San Elizario Independent School District after having served as an English and Special Education teacher at Fabens High School for over eight years. While at Fabens High School, she coached the Special Olympics team for many years. Her passion for special education began long before she knew her family would be personally impacted. She is the proud mother of Julian who is dually diagnosed with Down syndrome and Autism. Anna is an active member of the local Down syndrome and Autism organizations to ensure these places remain operational for other families like themselves. Being her son’s advocate and having the world see her son’s potential is her top priority.

Dr. Stephanie Capshaw is a Clinical Associate Professor and Doctoral Capstone Coordinator at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). Previously she served as the Founding Program Director of the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences Dallas Campus OTD program, as well as a Doctoral Capstone Coordinator. Prior to that, she served as Program Director of the UTEP OT program, and Associate Dean of the UTEP College of Health Sciences. Her professional career has spanned more than 25 years, focusing on pediatric occupational therapy in the home, outpatient clinic, school-based and acute-care settings. She is also involved in community engaged service and research, with a special interest in OT related to minority health, vulnerable populations, and trauma-informed care. She earned a Bachelor of Science in OT (Texas Woman’s University), Master of Arts in OT (Texas Woman’s University), and a post-professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) from University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. She is deeply committed, as a pediatric occupational therapist and university professor, to supporting individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. Her goal is to advocate for inclusive opportunities, provide meaningful resources and contribute to a community that empowers individuals to thrive.

As a former special education teacher and the proud parent of a son with Down syndrome, Jesus brings both professional expertise and personal experience to his role as a Board Member of the Down Syndrome Coalition of El Paso. With a background in education, research, and community outreach, he has dedicated his career to fostering inclusive learning environments and empowering students of all abilities. He aims to leverage his skills in stakeholder collaboration to drive impactful initiatives that expand resources, advocacy, and awareness for the Down syndrome community. Beyond being an educator and a father, he sees himself first and foremost as a servant. His greatest hope is to support and uplift families, providing them with the encouragement and voice they deserve. He is committed to making a lasting difference and ensuring that individuals with Down syndrome have the opportunities and support they need to thrive. As Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” That’s what he is here to do.

Jana and her husband are the proud parents of their warrior princess, whose strength, joy, and resilience inspires them every day. Jana’s advocacy for her daughter began long before birth, fueling her passion for inclusion, awareness, and support within the Down syndrome community. Their family’s journey led her to become a board member with the Coalition, where she works to connect families with resources, foster a sense of belonging, and amplify the voices of individuals with Down syndrome. Jana is committed to celebrating the beauty, strength, and limitless potential of this incredible community.

Romaree has a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Communication, with a minor in Women’s Studies and Psychology. She got a truly enriching, cultural and fulfilling education living and traveling through Europe. Later, Romaree moved back to Los Angeles, CA continuing her career in broadcasting, while parlaying that with an opportunity to work in mental health. She was hired to work at a day care rehab center as a Socialization Director for people diagnosed with severe mental illness. Her role in this position included teaching clients ages 10-80 years old, communication and leadership skills, how to build self-esteem, and lead meaningful and rewarding lives. Romaree has been working as a freelance TV reporter and writes a column destigmatizimg mental illness. She is also involved in numerous civic activities including promoting, reporting and writing about the local music scene, arts, and theater and feature stories. In the past, she has served on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, Kids Excel Write Girl and various boards. Being a Mommy, writing, dance, animals and traveling are her passions!

Abril Rodriguez is a dedicated arts professional and tutor, passionate about nurturing creativity. A proud mother to Mateo, who has Down Syndrome, she strives to learn, grow and serve her community with unwavering passion and artistic vision.

The birth of my daughter opened my eyes to the lack of resources and support for families of children with Down syndrome. Through my involvement with the DSC, I hope to spread awareness and educate the community on behalf of all individuals with Down syndrome.

Being a part of the DSC has taught me to celebrate life and live in the moment. I invite you to get involved with a non-profit you are truly passionate about. Whether you get involved through a donation of your time or financial resources, knowing you’re a small part of a great cause is truly rewarding.