A star was chosen to represent the Down Syndrome Indiana for several reasons:
Focus
Parents, siblings, educators, and other friends and family often describe individuals with Down syndrome as “stars”, or the center of attention. The star logo recognizes that quality, and reminds us of our need to challenge ourselves and society to see all individuals with Down syndrome for their contributions to their community.
Achievement
A star has long been a symbol of achievement. The star logo reminds us of the importance of all “achievements” of individuals with Down syndrome.
Inspiration
As a group of people familiar with the history of Down syndrome and its treatments, we recognize that we are still at the beginning of our journey to discover the full potential of individuals with Down syndrome. The star represents our collective reaching for a brighter future for all individuals with Down syndrome.
Each year, Down Syndrome Indiana celebrates all individuals that have been instrumental in continuing their mission within the Down syndrome community. Three dedicated individuals who have made a long-term contributions to the Down syndrome community will be honored with the reception of the reputable “STAR Award”.
If you would like to nominate someone special for a “STAR Award”, please contact Stephanie Garner, DSI Program Coordinator at garner@dsindiana.org. Please note that while we appreciate their many contributions, DSI Staff Members are ineligible for this award.
Thank you,
Down Syndrome Indiana
Past STAR Award Recipients
2021
Heather Gregg
Copass-Israels Family
Hatchett Family
Jennifer Buechler
2020
Cristina Santamaria Graff
Allison Boyll
Kasey Sigler
Ricky Hull
2019
Charlene Guthrie
Shelley Needler
Scott Marlow
Katie Cortelyou
2018
Matt Parrott
Kris Strohmeyer
Dr. Joshua Greene
Cathy Ballenger
2017
Dixie Russell
Sandy and Kerry Miller
Alissa Kahl
2016
no awards given this year
2015
Renee Petrie
Kelly Gillespie
2014
John Hickey
Crystal Dyer
Sara Hawkins
Rachel Swinford
2013
Angie Cain
Don Crane
Kyra Noerr
Sierra Hoffman
2012
Kim Dodson
Angie Everton
Jean Updike
2011
Cathy Ramsey
Montgomery Aviation
Patricia Finkley
2010
Ann Gibson
Katie Shaw
Kate von Eiff
2009
Mary Delaney
Charlene Davis
Terry Allen and WalMart
2008
The Glowner Family
Texas Roadhouse
Jan Huffman
Dr. John Brown
Dr. Mark Turrentine
Cindy Cobb
Midwest Orthotics and Technology
Mr. Bob Harvey
Robbin Lyons
Beth DeHoff
Dr. Katie Stanton
Mark Hubler
Dr. Skotko