Jon Colman was appointed to the position of President in December 2007. Mr. Colman is the 4th full-time president in NDSS' 31 year history.
Mr. Colman joined NDSS in 2001, working in the area of educational programming. He quickly rose to the Senior VP of Programs and Operations position, then assumed the role of Acting Director in February 2006 and was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in September of 2006.
Since that time, Mr. Colman has led NDSS through a significant reorganization, resulting in an advanced and efficient operating structure designed to support the organization's goal of providing the best possible information and support to professionals serving the Down syndrome community, and individuals with Down syndrome. Mr. Colman created a platform for the recruitment of highly skilled and motivated staff members to enable long term growth within the various departments. Mr. Colman created a focused business plan built upon board-directed strategic imperatives, accompanied by a responsible and efficient operating budget.
Mr. Colman has focused his efforts to execute the advancements of key initiatives such as the Postsecondary Program and the administration of the Down Syndrome Research Coalition. He has actively and successfully developed relations with the CDC and the NIH in support of the Down Syndrome Research Coalition.
Mr. Colman has opened numerous doors for NDSS to explore innovative ways of fundraising, via online programs, product cause-marketing, and has significantly increased the National Buddy Walk Program across the country. In addition, Mr. Colman continues to strengthen relations with other Down syndrome support groups creating a stronger network within the Down syndrome community.