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 her six-year-old son, Noah. Despite his young age, Noah has faced significant challenges, including time in foster care, adoption, Down syndrome, autism, cancer, open-heart surgery, and ongoing medical complexities. Of all his diagnoses, Down syndrome is the only one Lydia would never change. Since the day she met her son, Lydia has dedicated her life to advocating for him and ensuring he has every opportunity to thrive as a valued and capable member of society. She understands the critical role that community support and awareness play and is deeply committed to advocating for individuals like her son. Every Little Blessing Preschool has been a transformative presence in their lives, demonstrating the incredible potential of students with disabilities when inclusion is prioritized. Inspired by this experience, Lydia strives to be a source of strength and support for others through her volunteer work. Lydia is profoundly grateful to be in a position where she can empower and advocate for the Down syndrome community.

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.

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.

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

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!

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.

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.

Angel De La Rocha Jimenez is a Biomedical Science major with a minor in Chicana Interdisciplinary Studies whose passion for healthcare advocacy is deeply rooted in lived experience. Growing up in a family shaped by complex medical journeys—including caring for a younger brother with Down syndrome and a sister with a neurological condition—Angel learned early what it means to navigate healthcare systems as a patient, caregiver, and advocate.

As a home health provider for her brother, Angel has supported his daily care, therapies, and growing independence, gaining firsthand insight into the importance of patience, dignity, and treating individuals as more than a diagnosis. Her experiences have reinforced her belief that effective care must be compassionate, culturally responsive, and family-centered.

Through her involvement with the Down Syndrome Coalition of El Paso, Angel is committed to promoting inclusion, empowering families, and expanding access to resources for individuals with Down syndrome. She plans to pursue a career in medicine, with the goal of becoming a pediatrician who listens deeply, advocates fiercely, and provides care that honors both culture and community.

Brenda Matamoros, a passionate Special Educator, that is a dedicated member of the Canutillo Independent School District since 2021, where she serves as a Special Education Transition Service Facilitator, with a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies in Special Education from The University of Texas at El Paso and a master’s in special education with a emphasis on Social Emotional Learning from the University of Texas at El Paso brings a wealth of knowledge and a robust pedagogical toolkit to the district and to The Down Syndrome Coalition as a new board member.

Brenda began her teaching career in 2003, driven by a passion for Special Education, then stepped into the role of Lead Special Education Teacher, followed by the role of Transition Facilitator for Canutillo ISD. She quickly established herself as an advocate for students with diverse educational needs, by creating engaging Transition programs that reflects both her deep understanding of Special Education Transition programs and a commitment to innovative Transition programing.

Over the years, she has taught from early childhood through high school students and has been instrumental in Projects and Initiatives at Canutillo ISD. Throughout her career, Brenda has created and led the Education Work Based Learning Initiatives, Eagles Workshop, Project Search Canutillo and Goodwill EDS program. Brenda is also an active member of American Federation of Teachers, which allows her to contribute to the community and stay abreast of the latest education focus and advocate for educational policy change.

Outside of the classroom, Brenda enjoys reading and going to the movies, which she often incorporates into her field to enrich the work-based learning experience. She is also involved and volunteers in Special Olympics, reflecting her belief in community engagement. She is also a proud mother of her son Diego who is student at University of Texas at Austin. Brenda is also a member of the Texas Parents Association for UT Austin’s parents. Brenda advocates and supports her son in all aspects of his educational journey at UT Austin. She has also created a parent group for the class of 2029 for the El Paso students attending UT Austin.

Being an educator and a mother, she sees herself as an advocate of all students with all albitites in the El Paso community.

Growing up with a sister with Down syndrome, Sarah didn’t view Angelita’s diagnosis as a negative. In her family, Angelita was treated the same as any of her other siblings. Throughout her life though, Sarah has been able to see the lack of resources available to people with Down syndrome, particularly after Angelita graduated from high school. Now working in education, Sarah hopes to educate both younger people and adults with Down syndrome, and their families, about resources available to them.

Having an adult with Down syndrome in her life, Sarah’s focus in the DSC is to provide more outlets for other adults. She would like to help adults with Down syndrome thrive through inclusion and bring awareness to the community.

Simone Rosson is a licensed clinical social worker born and raised in El Paso, Texas. She currently serves as a clinical social worker for the U.S. Army, providing mental health support to service members and their families. She earned her undergraduate degree from Texas Tech University and her Master of Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Her passion for supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities began when she was placed in a gym class alongside students with IDD- an experience that, through her involvement, continued for years and fostered greater inclusion. She also assisted with various activities such as facilitating a special education homecoming event and volunteering with Special Olympics. She later joined the Best Buddies program at Texas Tech where she continued her dedication to building inclusive communities.

These experiences continue to guide Simone’s commitment to advocacy, inclusion, and community-based care in support of the Down Syndrome Coalition of El Paso.

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.