Untapped Talent: Employing Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
In this session, participants will learn about Down syndrome and how to increase inclusion and belonging for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in the workplace. As a founding member of the CEO Commission for Disability Employment, the National Down Syndrome Society is leading the way for a more inclusive workforce. Listen in and learn how you and your organization can get involved!
Discussion Topics:
- How can employers in the cleaning industry drive inclusion and belonging for the I/DD community
- Employment Programs and resources for employers
- Partnering for career success/employing individuals with Down syndrome
Interested in registering a large group?
For inquries about group ordering, please contact the event organizer.
Speakers
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Ryan RotundoManager of Employment Programs, National Down Syndrome Society (NDSSRyan Rotundo is the Manager of Employment Programs at the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) where he develops resources, programs, and partnerships to advance employment opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome. Ryan brings more than a decade of experience as a high school special education teacher, with a focus on preparing young adults for positive post-secondary transitions. He also has experience developing curriculum to support siblings of individuals with Down syndrome, has worked as a Direct Service Provider, and continues to share his experience as a guest lecturer and speaker. In 2018 Ryan was appointed by Governor Roy Cooper to the North Caroline Council on Developmental Disabilities, and in 2019 he was awarded the Distinguished Service Award by Buncombe County Schools, in partnership with Arc of Buncombe County. Ryan holds an undergraduate degree in special education from UNC – Greensboro and a master’s degree in public administration from UNC – Chapel Hill.
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Charlotte WoodwardEducation Program Associate, National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS)Charlotte Woodward is the Education Program Associate for the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) where she supports the development of education related resources and educational policy initiatives. Charlotte was born with Down syndrome, as well as a heart condition, and had four open-heart surgeries when she was young. She is one of the very few people born with Down syndrome to receive a life-saving heart transplant, and she regularly shares her story to educate and advocate for others. Charlotte holds an associate degree from Northern Virginia Community College and recently graduated Suma Cum Laude from George Mason University with a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a concentration in inequality and social change.
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Kayla McKeonManager of Grassroots Advocacy, National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS)Kayla McKeon is the Manager of Grassroots Advocacy for the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) where she works to advance legislation beneficial to the Down syndrome community. Kayla gained experience working with Members of Congress as an intern for Congressman John Katko of New York. She was named NDSS Self-Advocate of the Year in 2016 and joined the NDSS staff the following year. As the first registered lobbyist with Down syndrome, Kayla is a spokesperson for NDSS and the Down syndrome community, participating in media and speaking publicly both nationally and internationally. Kayla has an associate degree in general studies from Onondaga Community College.
