HOPE Lab at NDSC 2025: Research, Advocacy, and Community in Action
The HOPE Lab team had an incredible experience at the 2025 National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) Convention and the Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group (DSMIG) Annual Symposium in Dallas, TX. This annual gathering of self-advocates, families, researchers, clinicians, and educators is always a highlight of our year—and this time was no exception.
Student Researchers Shine
We are thrilled to share that Lauren Hinton and Lynden Gilstrap, two of our talented student researchers, received the Top Poster Award from the Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group-USA (DSMIG-USA). Their poster, Analyzing the Efficacy of the NIH Emotion Toolbox when Predicting Depression and Anxiety in Individuals with Down Syndrome, was selected for its rigor, relevance, and clarity. Lauren and Lynden were invited to present their work live during the DSMIG Welcome Reception—and they did a phenomenal job!
“Their presentation was clear, professional, and deeply impactful. I couldn’t be prouder,” said Dr. Ruth Brown, Director of the HOPE Lab.
Sharing Mental Health Expertise
Dr. Brown also had the honor of leading a three-hour Deep Dive workshop focused on understanding and supporting mental health in people with Down syndrome. The session explored the emotional, behavioral, cognitive, and physical symptoms of anxiety and offered strategies for families and providers to provide more inclusive care.
NIH Panel: From Discovery to Practice
Dr. Brown was honored to give an invited presentation during the NIH-organized panel, From Discovery to Practice: Key Research Findings to Improve Mental Health and Quality of Life in People with Down Syndrome and Their Caregivers. The panel featured leading investigators from the NIH INCLUDE Project, and together they shared recent advances across multiple domains of mental health.
Inclusion in Action
At the HOPE Lab booth in the exhibit hall, our team connected with hundreds of attendees, sharing information about our studies and engaging participants. One of the most powerful parts of our presence? Our very own outreach specialist, Kathryn Mary —a self-advocate with Down syndrome—helped staff the booth and connect directly with families and other self-advocates.
Representation matters, and our goal is to ensure that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are not only represented in research but also help shape it.
Team Fun
Of course, it wasn’t all work! We took time to celebrate over some Texas barbecue at Ferris Wheelers, the Giddy Up and Glow Dance, and we made memories as a team. From research presentations to pulled pork platters, the week was packed with purpose and joy.
Thank You
We’re grateful to the NDSC, DSMIG, and all the attendees who stopped by to learn about our work. Together, we are building a future where mental health research and care are inclusive, equitable, and community-centered.