Elin Howe, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services
and 2011 recipient of the Allen C. Crocker Award of Excellence

Each year the MDSC honors persons who have celebrated the rich accomplishments of people with Down syndrome in the following areas:

Media Award
Presented to a person or company who exemplifies the MDSC's mission to disseminate up-to-date information about Down syndrome. Previous recipients have included Beverly Beckham of the Boston Globe, Amy Marcus of The Wall Street Journal, Gene Lavanchy of FOX25 News and Pat Bauer, formally of The Washington Post.

Outstanding Educator Award
Presented to an educator in Massachusetts who maximizes the full potential of students with Down syndrome. A financial award of $1,000 is presented to the recipient of this award.,

Allen C. Crocker Award of Excellence
The highest award offered by the MDSC to the person who most advances the Down syndrome movement. The Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress established the Allen C. Crocker Award of Excellence in recognition of Dr. Crocker's many years of nurturing individuals with Down syndrome and their families throughout their life's journey.  Previous recipients were the Boston Ballet Adaptive Dance Program and Sarah Cullen and Angela Lombardo for their outstanding work providing first response services for new parents.

MDSC Awards are presented each year at the Annual Conference. To submit a nomination for an MDSC Award, please use the links below:

• Allen C. Crocker Award of Excellence Nomination Form
• Media Award Nomination Form
• Outstanding Educator Award Nomination Form

View previous award recipients