Staff

Executive Director

Beth Smith, M. Ed.

Beth Smith joined DSAGC as the Executive Director in 2024.  She has a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in counseling. Her career path progressed from work in the public school system as an intervention specialist and school counselor to nonprofit leadership. She served as a nonprofit executive director for ten years before joining our organization. She has three adult children and lives on the westside of Cincinnati with her husband and three dogs.
Email Beth

"My favorite aspect of the DSAGC is the strong sense of community and collaboration that inspires hope and leads to consequential, life-fulfilling opportunities for those we serve."

Fun fact: I love to treasure hunt and collect vintage needlepoint. I recently purchased one that had some old currency hidden between the fabric and frame!

Program Team

Stephanie Dailey, PT, DPT, Program Director - Young Adult Coordinator

As Program Director, Stephanie provides leadership and guidance to our program team who deliver vital support, resources, and programming to families across all ages. Stephanie is also responsible for providing support, resources and programs to ages 18-34. Some areas Stephanie can provide support are for housing, full employment, transportation, healthcare, social networking and aging. Stephanie also is responsible for planning a wide variety of programs including TELL and Find Your Way. She received a BS in Kinesiology from Miami University and her doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Dayton. Prior to joining the DSAGC staff, Stephanie worked as a Physical Therapist, working with children and adults with developmental disabilities, orthopedic injuries, and neurologic conditions. Stephanie continues to hold her licensure as a Physical Therapist and continues to practice physical therapy as well. She became connected to the DSAGC as a volunteer and to the community by working with children and adults with developmental disabilities. Email Stephanie

“There are so many reasons why I love my job at the DSAGC! One is the connections I have made with the young adults and their families. They have welcomed me with open arms over the past year. My job is so much fun and I love getting to spend time with the young adults at all of the programs we have! I also love getting to see them grow and become more confident in their life skills through our Find Your Way retreats and tune up classes.”

Fun Fact: I am also a physical therapist!

Maggie Ranz, Early Matters Coordinator

As the Early Matters Coordinator, Maggie is responsible for providing support, resources, programs, and connection opportunities to our youngest families. She will also provide much needed outreach to local health professionals who deliver a diagnosis of Down syndrome. Prior to becoming the Early Matters Coordinator, Maggie worked for University’s Medical Center and then for the James Cancer Hospital. In addition, she started out her career at the DSAGC as our Outreach Coordinator where she spent countless hours connecting with local health professionals, schools, employers, and legislators to make sure our community is an inclusive one. Maggie is a native of Columbus, Ohio and graduated from The Ohio State University. She has been connected to the Down syndrome community since 2016 when her friend Lindsey’s son, Owen, was born with Down syndrome. Maggie lives on the west side of town with her husband and two children. Email Maggie

“One thing I love most about my job is seeing the relationship and bonds families make after meeting one another through the DSAGC. I love being the person who gets to welcome our newest families and introduce them to this amazing community.”

Fun Fact: I can ride a unicycle!

Joanie Elfers, School Age Coordinator

As the School Age Coordinator, Joanie attends school meetings and assists with IEPs, behavior plans, and other school related matters. She also does “peer presentations” to students and teachers to expand the school’s knowledge of Down syndrome. In addition, she plans educational, therapeutic, and social opportunities for school-age children and teens throughout the year. Prior to joining the DSAGC staff team in 2014, she worked for worked for Hamilton County Developmental Disability Services as a Service Facilitator then transferred to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital as a School Intervention Specialist. She assisted children with various disabilities and medical conditions with their transition back-to-school after their hospitalization.  Joanie has a personal passion and connection to Down syndrome through her niece, Payton Schroeder, was born in February of 2002.  At the age of 7, she was also diagnosed with Autism. Email Joanie

“I love so much about my job at the DSAGC, but one of my favorite things is watching the crowds go wild when our cheerleaders perform. They spread so much positive community awareness.”

Fun Fact:  I’m in a horseshoe league—and I’m pretty darn good!

Kim Wynn, Aging Adult Coordinator

As the Aging Specialist, Kim Wynn is responsible for providing support and resources to individuals with Down syndrome (ages 35+) and their families. She is available to assist with aging concerns, guardianship issues, housing, transportation, sibling caregivers, and more. Kim has spent her entire career working in the field of developmental disabilities. Email Kim

“My favorite thing about working at the DSAGC is being able to personalize my approach to get to know individuals 35+ and their families/caregivers. Everyone has been so welcoming and appreciative of the DSAGC’s hiring of an aging specialist and the programs that we offer.”

Fun Fact: I was Miss 16 of Cincinnati (year 1973)

Ella Vasconcellos, Intern

Ella is our annual DSAGC intern. She helps the office run smoothly by labeling envelopes, restocking supplies, sending thank you notes to donors, and helping all of the staff prepare for major projects and events. Most importantly, Ella is an asset at DSAGC events and takes leadership roles in running stations or speaking opportunities. Ella is a hard worker and we are so lucky to have her on our team! She lives in Mason with her mom and dad. Email Ella

"My favorite part of working at the DSAGC is sending emails and working events"

Fun Fact - I am good at arts and crafts!

Reagan Sears, Program Coordinator

As Program Coordinator, Reagan gets to work closely with multiple areas of the DSAGC. She serves as the direct supervisor of our annual intern with Down syndrome, supporting them in identifying and working toward personal goals through meaningful, real-life work experience. Reagan is also involved with the Find Your Way™ program, including young adult Tune-Ups™ and the annual retreats! In addition, she leads the DSAGC's advocacy initiatives, Parent Education Seminars, and a variety of other programs. Reagan holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development & Community Engagement. Prior to joining the staff in 2026, she gained experience all over the developmental disability space through day program, summer camp, educational, and real estate roles. She lives in Newport in a 150-year-old refurbished furniture warehouse! Email Reagan

"My favorite part of working at the DSAGC is building a close relationship with our annual intern and creating a work environment that is fun, engaging, and purposeful!

Fun Fact: I’ve been lucky enough to ride in the Wienermobile—twice!

Emma Daniels, Engagement Specialist

As an Engagement Specialist, Emma Daniels is responsible for Social Clubs, finding and training Peer Partners, getting new groups together and helping the Peer Partners to make sure their club is a success, and helps oversee our internship program. Emma Daniels holds a BA in Public Relations, a minor in Organizational Leadership and a focus in Women’s Gender Studies from Northern Kentucky University. Prior to joining the DSAGC staff team in 2017, Emma worked at Jason’s Connection a local non-profit, as well as helped start the Best Buddies program at NKU pairing NKU students with individuals who are a part of the DSAGC in one-to-one friendships, this is how she met her friend Kelsey and got involved at the DSAGC in 2010. She has over 10 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. Emma lives in Fort Thomas with her husband Jason and their three kids, Adelyn, Lorelei, Carson, and their cat Frank. Because of Best Buddies Emma has personal passion and connection to Down syndrome through her friend Kelsey, they have been friends since 2010. Email Emma

“My favorite thing about working at the DSAGC is being able to watch and help my friends grow in their independence.”

Fun Fact: I was bitten by a penguin when I worked at the Newport Aquarium as an animal helper.

Outreach Team

Krissy Vinson, Communications and Impact Director

As Communications and Impact Director, Krissy leads DSAGC’s outreach efforts, ensuring community engagement is strategic, inclusive, and mission driven. She oversees website content and editing, social media, email communications, printed materials, and program registration systems, while also managing media relations across news, radio, and other outlets. Krissy also manages the organization’s impact reporting, including the development of the annual Impact Report. Krissy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from Northern Kentucky University. Prior to joining the staff in 2012, she volunteered with DSAGC due to her personal connection to Down syndrome. She lives in Northern Kentucky with her husband and children. Email Krissy

“My favorite part about working at the DSAGC is the thousands of parents, siblings, volunteers, and individuals with Down syndrome I meet who I consider family. Together, we work to make our community a place where EVERYONE is embraced, supported, accepted, and empowered.”

Fun Fact: I have won two hula hoop contests.

Julie Sheffer, Community Engagement Coordinator

As the Community Engagement Coordinator, Julie focuses on planning and delivering family-centered social opportunities that strengthen connections within the DSAGC community. Julie holds a bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing from the University of Dayton. Prior to joining DSAGC, Julie worked in the marketing communications department for Corning, Inc. in upstate NY and at Cognis Corporation in Cincinnati, OH. She also worked at Starfire Council of Greater Cincinnati as an outing leader for teens and adults with disabilities. Most recently, she was a development manager at Most Valuable Kids, a local non-profit in Cincinnati. She lives on the east side of Cincinnati with her husband, Scott, and their 3 children and 2 dogs. Email Julie

“Getting the opportunity to know our donors and supporters on a personal level is the best part of my job!  The generosity we receive from this community is such a testament to the trust and belief they have in us as an organization.”

Fun Fact: I never got wisdom teeth – and I was sure happy about that when everyone I knew had to have them removed!

Amy Iten, Volunteer Coordinator

As the DSAGC Volunteer Coordinator, Amy is responsible for recruiting, training and managing over 700 volunteers each year.  In addition, she directly supports the volunteers who lead our many community groups.  Amy has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing from Christian Brothers University in Memphis, TN.  Prior to joining the staff in 2015, she volunteered as a DSAGC Community Group Leader connecting families like hers who have a loved one with Down syndrome. Email Amy

“My favorite part of my job is making connections – family to family, volunteers to the DSAGC, and my own personal connections with families and volunteers. I love directly supporting the volunteers who lead our community groups. They are creative, dedicated and I learn a lot working with them.”

Fun Fact: I used to work as a taster for a local flavoring company – not the most glamorous job with the things we “had” to taste, but it was usually pretty interesting!

Development Team

Kerin Caudill, Development Director - Fundraising and Events

As the Development Director, Kerin leads the development team ensuring that fundraising strategies are effective, donor relationships are nurtured, and revenue goals are met to support the organization’s mission. She also oversees donor stewardship to maintain transparency and foster long-term support. Kerin plans the organization’s major fundraising events - Buddy Walk and Golf Outing - as well as other projects within the organization. She has worked in the nonprofit sector as a development professional for 30 years, specifically event marketing and fundraising. Prior to joining the DSAGC staff in 2011, Kerin worked for Sesame Workshop, Neighborhood Housing Services of NYC and the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation,  She relocated to Ohio, from New York, with her husband and 2 children and lives on the East side of Cincinnati.  Email Kerin

"I love so much about what I do at the DSAGC. Having the opportunity to support families here in Cincinnati has brought me so much joy.  I step back at the Buddy Walk each year after the official walk “start” and just soak it all in.  What an awesome community we live in." 

Fun Fact: My first job out of college was with Sesame Workshop. I grew up watching and LOVING Sesame Street, so to end up working alongside Big Bird, Grover, Elmo and the rest of my childhood heroes was so very special. 

Kari Kester, Grants Coordinator

As the Grant Coordinator, Kari is responsible for researching, writing, and submitting grant proposals to area foundations and corporations. These funds help support the programs and services that we provide. Kari graduated from Northern Arizona University and has her Master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati. She has more than 15 years of nonprofit experience. Her most recent ten years have been in fundraising, including everything from annual campaigns, to grant writing, to donor communication and engagement. Kari and her husband live in West Chester with their two sons. Her youngest son has Down syndrome. She is excited to use her professional experiences and personal passion to support individuals with Down syndrome. Email Kari

“It is an incredible honor to work for the organization that has been and will continue to be such an important part of our family’s journey.”

Fun Fact: I love all things baseball – especially if one of my boys is on the field!

Jenn Schott, Office Coordinator 

As the Office Coordinator, Jenn will assist our staff team with a variety of tasks including program preparation, database entry, communicating with families, administrative tasks, and more. Jenn has been in the developmental disabilities field since 2012 serving in a variety of roles including paraprofessional, direct support, and program lead. She lives in the east side of Cincinnati with her child. Email Jenn

“The best part about my job is getting to help where I am needed the most!”

Fun Fact: I won tickets to see Rascal Flatts from the radio station B-105, for singing karaoke one night at Turfway Park!

Scott Osterfeld, Development Coordinator

As the Development Coordinator, Scott plays a key role in supporting the creation and execution of the DSAGC's overall development strategy by strengthening and increasing donor relationships through a variety of meaningful engagement and stewardship activities. 

Scott has over 30 years' experience leading non-profit organizations serving the disability community.  Scott received his bachelor's and master's Degree from Miami University in Family and Child Studies and enjoys teaching and speaking on a wide variety of topics.  He recently completed a three-year term as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Miami University in the Family Science and Social Work Department.    Scott lives in Fairfield, Ohio with his wife Renee and has three adult daughters.   He welcomed his first granddaughter this past year and has a second one on the way. Email Scott

"My favorite thing about working at DSAGC is supporting individuals in reaching their goals and dreams and celebrating with them on their journey."  

Fun Fact:  I have a black belt in Karate.

Business Team

Betsy Browe, Operations Manager

As the Business Manager, Betsy is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day and big picture finances as well as our Community Participation Fund (scholarships). This position helps provide the foundation and building blocks necessary to support the staff members as they work to achieve their organizational goals. Betsy joined the DSAGC staff team February 2024. She lives in Fairfield with her husband and daughter, Cora, who has Down syndrome.Email Betsy

“The DSAGC is an amazing place to work because of the people I get to work with every day. The passion, support and positivity are incredible! I was lucky enough to get a job here when my daughter Cora, who has Down syndrome, was 7 months old. I couldn’t be happier with this community and the resources we bring to families like ours.”

Fun Fact: I had my daughter Cora when I was on vacation in the Florida Keys. So technically, she is from Miami, FL!

Austin Cahill, Bookkeeper

Austin serves as a Bookkeeper at DSAGC, supporting organizational operations through accurate financial management and reporting. He is responsible for maintaining financial records, processing transactions, and ensuring all accounts are up to date and compliant. Austin contributes to the organization’s efficiency by assisting with budgeting, financial tracking, and reporting processes. Austin holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Cincinnati, graduating in 2022. He brings a detail-oriented approach to his work and is committed to maintaining strong financial practices. He currently lives in Hamilton, Ohio with his fiancé and two dogs. Email Austin

Fun Fact: I spent six years serving in the Army National Guard and am engaged to my high school sweetheart.

National Down Syndrome Adoption Network

Stephanie Thompson, Director

As the Adoption Program Director, Stephanie is responsible for counseling expectant and new families from all over the United States who contact our program, the National Down Syndrome Adoption Network (NDSAN), who are considering making an adoption plan for their child. She helps them process the diagnosis, educates them on Down syndrome and parenting, and connects them to their local DS community. Because of this process, close to half of the families who contact us decide to parent their child. For those who decide to make an adoption plan, she provides support throughout the adoption process.

Prior to joining the Adoption Program, Stephanie was our Office Coordinator and Early Matters Coordinator for 11 years. Stephanie and her husband JT live in Anderson Township and have 2 adult sons – Chris, who rocks the extra chromosome, and Cody, who rocks at being a little brother to Chris. Email Stephanie

“My favorite part of my job is seeing all of the adults in the community who I made hospital visits to when they were born!”

Fun fact: I trained and raced for NASCAR for a summer and was featured on a TV show about my experience!

Molly Blaker, Program Coordinator

As the NDSAN Program Coordinator, Molly works closely with the NDSAN Director to support families and strengthen relationships with NDSAN supporters. As an adoptive parent, she brings both professional experience and personal perspective to her role and is passionate about connecting with and supporting families throughout their adoption journeys.

Molly earned her bachelor’s degree from Miami University and began her work with the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati in 2019 as the Outreach Coordinator for the NDSAN. For the past three and a half years, she has served as Outreach Coordinator for the DSAGC, where she has built strong, trusted relationships with families, professionals, and community partners.

Prior to joining DSAGC, Molly worked as an Intervention Specialist in schools throughout the greater Cincinnati area. Molly lives in Loveland with her husband and children and enjoys building connections with families in her community.  Email Molly

“I love many things about my job, but my favorite is getting to work with our interns. I have learned so much from them and delight in seeing them grow throughout their internship.”

Fun Fact: I am a huge fan of the TV show House Hunters!