2021
Jean is a two-time Rockin’ Recipient and this year’s recipient of the Ruby’s Rainbow Luna Mae Scholarship Award. She attends Duquesne University, where she completed her first year virtually during the pandemic. She learned a lot and made lots of new friends over Zoom, but she is looking forward to living in the dorm this fall and attending classes and campus events in person.
Jean is an active self-advocate who speaks with local groups about various aspects of living with a disability, such as attending college and supported decision making. She has also advocated before the Minnesota state legislature to expand college options for students with intellectual disabilities.
Her professors and mentors describe Jean as “a brave young woman” with “a spirit of adventure,” who “uses her voice in ways that empower and inspire others.” Jean’s advice for other students with Down syndrome who are considering post-secondary education is that college is about fun and freedom, but it also represents responsibility. She encourages parents to “believe in your son or daughter’s abilities. Parents should have high expectations for their children.” We agree 100%, Jean! You rock—we are so proud of you!