In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, Sarah sits down with Robin Kohn to talk all about one of DSACO’s most empowering programs — the Self-Advocacy Center (SAC).

Robin shares what SAC is, who it’s designed for, and why self-advocacy is such an important skill for individuals with Down syndrome. From building confidence and communication skills to learning how to speak up for yourself, SAC helps self-advocates grow both personally and socially in a supportive, encouraging environment.

Listeners will hear what a typical SAC session looks like, the kinds of skills participants work on, and the incredible growth Robin has seen in self-advocates over time. Robin also shares meaningful moments and success stories that highlight just how impactful the Self-Advocacy Center can be.

✨ Big news! Applications for the Self-Advocacy Center are officially open. Robin walks through who should apply, what the application process looks like, and offers encouragement for anyone who might feel nervous or unsure about taking that first step.

🎟️ Plus, Sarah reminds listeners about the Uniqu3ly 21 Fashion Show happening January 30, 2026 — a night celebrating confidence, inclusion, and self-expression, with proceeds supporting DSACO programs like SAC.

👉 Apply for the Self-Advocacy Center: https://www.dsaco.org/programs/self-advocacy-center

👉 Get tickets for the Uniqu3ly 21 Fashion Show: dsaco.org/fashionshow

As we wrap up another incredible year at the Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma, Kathy and Sarah sit down to reflect on all that 2025 has brought to our DSACO community.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Highlights from the past year and programs that made a big impact
• Growth within our community of self advocates, families, volunteers, and supporters
• What we’ve learned, what we’re proud of, and what’s ahead for DSACO
• Exciting opportunities coming up in the new year and how YOU can get involved

We’re also sharing a few important updates and ways to stay connected with DSACO:

👗 Uniqu3ly 21 Fashion Show Tickets are on sale now! Join us for a night of inclusion, confidence, and celebration. 👉 Fashion Show Link: https://www.dsaco.org/fundraisers/uniqu3ly-21-fashion-show

🧡 DSACO Board Applications Interested in serving on the DSACO Board and helping guide our mission forward? Applications are open. 👉 Board Application Link: https://www.dsaco.org/news/board-of-directors-application

📅 Bountiful Blessings Calendar A meaningful way to support DSACO while celebrating our community all year long. 👉 Bountiful Blessings Calendar Link: https://www.dsaco.org/bountiful-blessings-calendar

Thank you to everyone who supported DSACO this year. Whether you volunteered, donated, participated in programs, or simply followed along—we couldn’t do this without you.

✨ Here’s to another year of impact, growth, and advocacy.

As always— Keep advocating, keep empowering, and keep educating.

In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, we sit down with Dr. Annie Baghdayan, BCBA-D, Executive Director of the National Center for Disability Education & Training and Program Director of OU’s Pre-Employment Transition Services (PreETS) at the University of Oklahoma.

Dr. Baghdayan shares her journey into Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and disability advocacy, explains what ABA looks like in real life, and clears up common misconceptions surrounding the therapy. We also discuss how person-centered, evidence-based ABA helps individuals build essential life and job-ready skills.

You’ll hear how the OU PreETS program supports students with disabilities as they prepare for life after high school, employment, and greater independence. Dr. Baghdayan also shares current trends in ABA, leadership insights, and what gives her hope for the future of inclusive education and employment.

🔗 Best Step Camp: https://oklahoma.gov/okdrs/students/transition/beststep.html

✨ Uniqu3ly 21 Fashion Show | January 30, 2026 | 📍 The Criterion, OKC | Tickets: dsaco.org/fashionshow

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