Leadership

Meet the Team

Board of Directors

Kaitlynn D. Fraze, Ph.D., is a special education researcher, educator, and advocate whose work focuses on improving literacy outcomes for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, particularly those with Down syndrome. She currently serves as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Texas Christian University, where she leads data management, supports grant development, and oversees research teams on projects examining functional literacy interventions. Dr. Fraze earned her doctorate in Special Education with a concentration in research methods from George Mason University, where her dissertation investigated multicomponent literacy interventions for young students with Down syndrome. In addition to her research, she is an adjunct faculty member and university supervisor, mentoring preservice teachers in adapted curriculum programs, and a special education advocate supporting families in navigating IDEA and Section 504 processes. Her professional background includes K–12 teaching across a range of disability settings, federal internships with the U.S. Department of Education, and international work examining disability policy and services. Dr. Fraze has published peer-reviewed research, contributed to a leading handbook in special education, and regularly presents at national conferences, reflecting her commitment to bridging research, practice, and policy to advance equitable educational opportunities.

Erin is employed full time at Rosetta Stone in Arlington, Virginia where she assists with reception and administrative duties. She is a 2010 graduate of George Mason University’s LIFE Program for students with developmental disabilities. She is a Buddy Ambassador for Best Buddies Virginia and serves on the board of the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). Erin has become a passionate and accomplished advocate for those with intellectual disabilities. She was awarded the PEATC Virginia Star Icon award in 2008 for her advocacy work and the 2008 Advocates in Disability award from the HSC Foundation in Washington, D.C. Her latest accomplishment is the award of both the O.Neill and Tabani Enrichment Fund and the 2009 Dan Piper Award for national recognition of a self-advocate from the NDSS.

Katherine is a retired Air Force veteran with 25 years of experience in leadership, program management, and strategic planning. Currently a Program Manager at BetterUp, she is dedicated to fostering growth, collaboration, and positive change in her professional and community roles. As a proud parent and advocate, Katherine is passionate about empowering individuals with Down syndrome and creating spaces where families feel supported and connected. She is honored to serve on the DSANV Board and contribute to its impactful mission.

Denise is a northern Virginia native who has been a government contractor for 20 years. She’s an avid soccer player who loves being outside and spending time with her extended family. She is so thankful for the community and support that DSANV has provided her family. Denise is passionate about creating a new narrative for Down Syndrome individuals and is thrilled to continue serving, advocating, and promoting the DSANV mission.

David is a Community Relations Specialist at SourceAmerica with their Government Affairs Department. He previously served as a staff member on Capitol Hill with the Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee as JP Kennedy Jr. Public Policy Fellow–the first with an intellectual disability. He is a trailblazer with 20 years of competitive employment as a clerk in the Distribution Center with CBRE and experience working at the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). He serves on several Boards at the local, national and international levels. David is a Special Olympics athlete and a Sargent Shriver International Global Messenger and has been involved in leadership and community advocacy starting in 1999.

Charlotte is a Community Outreach Specialist with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). She is currently attending George Mason University working on a B.A. She earned an associate’s degree from the Northern Virginia Community College and graduated from Fairfax High School with a standard diploma. Charlotte was born with a heart condition and had four open-heart surgeries when she was young and recently became one of the very few people born with Down syndrome to receive a life-saving heart transplant! Her motto is to always give back to others, and she loves to have bake sales and donate the proceeds to various charities. These fundraising efforts have led to some exciting opportunities to give motivational speeches. She hopes to pursue a career as an author, professional baker, event planner and motivational speaker. She is determined to do her best to help ALL people with special needs!

Brian is a government contractor and a former lobbyist in both federal and state healthcare sectors. With a deep-seated passion for advocacy, he is driven by the desire to provide his son, Felix, with every opportunity to flourish and lead a fulfilling life. His introduction to DSANV was the New Parents Breakfast, and he wants to help other parents find additional similar opportunities by identifying additional programs for our younger population. Brian is excited to join the Board of Directors and help DSANV grow and thrive.

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