Chris Newlon is the NDSC Resource Support Coordinator. She has been involved in the Down syndrome community for over 21 years, since the birth of her youngest, Rebecca. Chris is a retired adolescent psychiatric Occupational Therapist and former La Leche League International Leader. Chris served on the Board of Directors of GiGi’s Playhouse McHenry County and acted as a consultant for GiGi’s Playhouse, Inc. Most recently, she served as the Family and Outreach Coordinator for the National Association for Down Syndrome. Chris has presented on a variety of topics at numerous conferences including NDSC, DSAIA, Ohio Institute for OT/PT School-Based Therapists and in multiple school and medical facilities. She is an independent expert providing support and evidence-based information related to education, medical and community resources. Chris is a member of the National Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition and was instrumental in the initial rollout of the ABLE Accounts for Illinois.

Chris and her husband live in Illinois with two of their five children. While following her passion to assist those in the Down Syndrome community, Chris strives for balance by enjoying four grandchildren, gardening, photography, and assisting with equine care at the therapeutic riding center where her daughter attends.