Each March, just after World Down Syndrome Day, MDSC brings together hundreds of people with Down syndrome, their family members, health care professionals and educators from across New England for our Annual Conference. Participants gather to hear the latest research findings and important information from national and local experts on a range of topics related to Down syndrome.
We were thrilled to celebrate MDSC’s 41st Annual Conference on March 29, 2025 (read below for details) with participants — self-advocates, parents and caretakers, grandparents and siblings, health care professionals, educators and others — from across New England.
Personalized Tracks
General Session Workshops
Parents, family members and professionals learned from expert speakers about how to help individuals with Down syndrome acquire the necessary skills to lead fuller, healthier, more independent lives.
Self Advocate Workshops
Teens and adults with Down syndrome age 13 and older gathered virtually and had an opportunity to network and share experiences, strengthen their self-advocacy skills, and learn about the importance of leading a healthy life and building meaningful relationships.
Specialty Workshops
Workshops led by and designed for unique groups, including grandparents, new parents, siblings, caregivers, and more. Created a forum for sharing stories and learning the importance of advocacy.
Education Workshops
Educators and parents learned best practices for educating students with Down syndrome in an inclusive classroom, as well as the benefits of inclusion for all learners.
41st Annual “On My Way” Conference
What a remarkable day of connection, learning, and community we had together celebrating MDSC’s 41st Annual “On My Way” Conference! The energy at the DCU Center was palpable as we gathered to recognize important achievements, share resources, and strengthen our mutual commitment building a brighter future for all people with Down syndrome.
With over 500 people in attendance, this signature event, which dates back to the earliest days of MDSC four decades ago, remains deeply meaningful for our community in 2025.
We were proud to offer a wealth of information for everyone—, parents and caregivers, self-advocates, brothers and sisters, grandparents, healthcare professionals, educators, community partners and others. Beyond the nearly two dozen expert sessions covering everything related to Down syndrome throughout the lifespan, attendees enjoyed a range of special performances and, of course, our annual awards ceremony.
This year’s “On My Way” theme perfectly captured the journey we’re all on—both individually and collectively. As we shared at the conference, our loved ones with Down syndrome are constantly on their way to learning new skills, opening eyes, and making the world a better place just by being themselves. Likewise, MDSC continues to be on our way to improving the world for each of our loved ones and building a future where ALL people with Down syndrome have every opportunity to lead meaningful, fulfilling lives.
Read more here about all the fabulous details of a very special day in the history of MDSC, and thank you for your support.
