Sarah Giddings
WSA Blog
May 01 2023 | 
Cyndra Cole
Cyndra Cole
Happy Williams Syndrome Awareness Month! As Board President, I’m often asked “What’s your elevator pitch? How do you define Williams syndrome to someone that’s never heard of it?” Here’s where I start - Williams syndrome is a rare genetic condition caused by a missing piece of genetic material on chromosome 7.
Jun 08 2022 | 
Terry Monkaba
Terry MonkabaCelebrating 40 years and all that we’ve accomplished as an organization and a community is a wonderful milestone. We’ve learned so much about Williams syndrome and provided a solid foundation for increased learning and excellent care for the future.
Apr 25 2022 | Terry Monkaba
Terry Monkaba
Dr. Ursula Bellugi, a pioneer in the study of Williams syndrome and a friend to WSA families since 1981, passed away on Sunday, April 17 at the age of 91. Dr. Bellugi was a leading researcher at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies for nearly 50 years – breaking barriers in the early years as a female scientist.
Mar 15 2022 | 
Robin Pegg, MEd, COTA/L, ATP, Education Consultant
Robin Pegg, MEd, COTA/L, ATP, Education Consultant
As the Education Consultant for the WSA, I have the opportunity to support many families as they navigate the special education system. Usually, this is exciting as I get to meet teachers and teams and help them understand how to teach their students with Williams syndrome (WS). Usually, this is the case.
Feb 08 2022 | Terry Monkaba
Terry MonkabaThe WSA celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, and there is great cause for celebration. The future for individuals with Williams syndrome looks much different today than it did back in 1982 when the Association was officially chartered. And the future for the WSA and the organization’s ability to provide resources and support for families has changed dramatically too.
Nov 15 2021 | Terry Monkaba
Terry MonkabaDo you remember when your loved one with Williams syndrome was first diagnosed? Whether the diagnosis was recent, or many years ago, I’m sure the details are still as sharp as they were that day.
Sep 14 2021 | WSA Staff
The learner with Williams syndrome (WS) can be both the biggest joy and the biggest challenge for the educators charged with their instruction. Students with Williams syndrome are often caring, engaging, and excited learners. They also have a unique learning profile which requires educators to teach to the student and allow him or her to access their curriculum in unique ways.
Sep 03 2021 | WSA Staff
Did you know that many funding sources are available for families who would like to attend educational conventions and conferences such as ours in Schaumburg, Illinois from July 12-16, 2022? Have you been wondering where/how to start? Now is the time to start planning!
Jul 26 2021 | Terry Monkaba
Terry MonkabaThirty-one years ago, the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law. The ADA was designed to prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities – including in education, transportation, and employment. People first started noticing the effects of the law with physical changes – curb cuts, handicap ramps on busses, accessible buildings, etc. In the years since, much more has been done to promote inclusion.
Jul 06 2021 | Terry Monkaba
Terry MonkabaMost of us are familiar with the theory of ‘six degrees of separation’ – maybe you saw the play or movie of the same name starring Will Smith, or watched the new Discovery Series on the topic with Mike Rowe, or perhaps you’ve played the Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon game. It’s the idea that all people, on average, are six, or fewer, social connections away from each other.