Marie Rej
Marie Rej, 2024 Allen C. Crocker Award recipient

Each year, MDSC honors individuals or organizations who have celebrated the rich accomplishments of people with Down syndrome.

Our Awards

Marie Blackburn, winner of 2022 Allen Crocker Award (Photo by Keith Toffling)

Allen C. Crocker Award of Excellence

The highest award offered by the MDSC, the Allen C. Crocker Award of Excellence was established in recognition of Dr. Crocker’s many years of nurturing individuals with Down syndrome and their families throughout their life’s journey. The award is presented to the person who most advances the Down syndrome movement.

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Sara Brothers (left), winner of the 2023 Outstanding Educator Award

Outstanding Educator Award

Presented to an educator in Massachusetts who has significantly contributed to ensuring that students with Down syndrome are given every opportunity to maximize their full potential.

Submit Nomination for 2024 Outstanding Educator Award
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Omar Masood of Omar’s World of Comics, recipient of the 2024 Exemplary Employer Award

Exemplary Employer Award

Established in 2016, this award is presented to an individual or company who is an exemplary employer in creating a welcoming, inclusive work environment for individuals with Down syndrome and/or other disabilities. Employers of the Year recognize the inherent value that people with Down syndrome can bring to the workforce and act as role models for other employers to emulate.

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Philip Donahue
Philip Donahue was named MDSC’s first Your Next Star Employee of the Year Award winner in 2022 on the heels of retiring from Market Basket in Tewksbury after 27 years of dedicated service.

Philip Donahue Employee of the Year Award

Established in 2022, the Philip Donahue Employee of the Year Award is presented annually to an individual who exemplifies Philip’s leadership and commitment to the community.

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Vanessa Welch of Boston25 News, MDSC’s 2022 Media Award winner | Photo by Keith Toffling

Media Award

Presented to a person or company who exemplifies the MDSC’s mission to disseminate up-to-date information about Down syndrome.

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Leadership Award

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Governor Charlie Baker accepts his 2022 Leadership Award at the Buddy Walk in Wakefield
Richard & Feyza Shipley, winners of an MDSC 2021 Leadership Award

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