Cindy Blan
co, President “I am a teacher in the public schools and see a need for change. Over the years I’ve seen a positive growth in the Down Syndrome Foundation of SENM and am thrilled to be a part of it.” Cindy has been on the board since 2015. She is also active in the Smile Train and United Way. Having a teacher on the board gives us eyes and ears in the schools to see where we can help empower educators to better serve individuals of all abilities.
Jerolyn Wagner, Vice Pres
ident Director of Nursing at ENMUR, Jerolyn has nursing students who have volunteered for the Down Syndrome Foundation for the past three years. Through these opportunities she was able to learn more about the Down Syndrome Foundation. When we approached her to be a board member she was more than happy to join us. “Although I have only served on the board for a short time, I can see how this experience will provide positive influences to help me grow both personally and professionally. It is a is an amazing organization and is a tremendous benefit to the community.”
Allen Ayers, Treasurer Mr. Ayers received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Malone University in Canton, OH, and his Master of Science from the Family Nurse Practitioner program at Malone University. He has experience in family practice, medical intensive care, wound care, coronary care, and epilepsy care. Additionally, he has earned a number of citations from the American Heart Association, Aultman College, Malone University, and from the Ohio Board of Nursing. He has a 8 year old son with Down Syndrome that he explains as the “best thing that has ever happened to him.” He states that having a child with Down Syndrome is metaphorically like going on an unexpected trip to a foreign country with the best tour guide possible. He looks forward to assisting the Down Syndrome community and expanding awareness in communities in SE NM.
Joelle Johnston “I love being part of an organization that focuses on the needs of these special children and people – just seeing the joy on their faces!” Joelle puts in so much more than keeping minutes and attending meetings. She often volunteers at the office just to be around the advocates we serve!
Mike Romero Mike is a parent. His son, Andrew, has Down syndrome. Having a parent as a board member is so helpful when it comes to understanding how to better service our families. “It really is amazing, the love shown to all with disabilities… it means a lot to our family.”
Andrew Lewis A huge accomplishment for our foundation came when Andrew, a self-advocate, accepted our invitation to join the Board of Directors. Not only is this a huge step for us all as a family but it is an incredible feat to have first hand input from one of the many we serve. We are hugely grateful and excited to see what this adventure brings. If you see Andrew around, please congratulate him and thank him for joining us!
Nick Nanz We are excited to announce Nick, one of our self-advocate parents from Ruidoso has joined the Board of Directors. This will open great doors to not only help our Board with another parent, but it also helps us have a source for our board in the Ruidoso area. Branching out and having the opportunity to grow the reach of our foundation is one of the many parts to our mission. If you see him around, please congratulate him!
