The Central Mississippi Down Syndrome Society (CMDSS) is a parent-driven nonprofit organization which serves to provide support for Central Missourians with Down syndrome and their families. In addition to offering support, the CMDSS also provides educational resources and promotes Down syndrome awareness.

Recently, WLBT reported that the CMDSS was offering a new scholarship for someone with Down syndrome who is pursuing either further education past high school or career or job training opportunities. 

Applying for the Scholarship

Altogether, the CMDSS scholarship will offer up to $5K to someone pursuing any of the above opportunities following high school. Applications for the scholarship must be sent to the CMDSS by April 1, 2022. To download the application, please take a look here. Applications must be sent to:

•  CMDSS Scholarship Committee, PO Box 935, Jackson, MS 39205

Following receipt of the applications, the CMDSS will announce scholarship recipients by May 1, 2022. 

To apply for the scholarship, applicants must fit the following requirements:

• Have Down syndrome
• Be accepted into an educational program such as college or community college, trade or vocational school, adult continuing education programs, or job training
• Have a relationship with, connection to, or involvement in the CMDSS

Additionally, applicants must submit the following information:

• Two letters of recommendation
• An essay or personal statement that does not exceed one page in length and discusses the relationship with CMDSS and future career/educational plans
• School transcripts, report cards, or academic awards (OPTIONAL)
• Honors and Awards, Record of Activities, or Extracurricular activities (OPTIONAL)
• Employment history or performance reviews (OPTIONAL)

If you have any questions regarding this scholarship, you may reach out to [email protected]. To apply for the scholarship, or learn more information, take a look at the CMDSS website. 

Down Syndrome

Also known as Trisomy 21, Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. Approximately 95% of those with this condition have a complete extra copy. The remaining 5% is broken down into two groups: 3% who have an extra copy attached to another chromosome, and 2% with only some cells having the extra copy. It is considered one of the most common chromosomal disorders, with an estimated 1 in every 700 infants in the U.S. born with Down syndrome. 

The additional chromosome contributes to some of the characteristics associated with Down syndrome. These include:

• A short neck
• Small ears that may fold slightly at the top
• White spots on the iris
• A small mouth with a large-appearing tongue
• Slanted or almond-shaped eyes
• Loose joints
• A small nose with a flattened nasal bridge
• Short stature

Additional characteristics or features include:

• Hearing loss
• Poor or low muscle tone
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Frequent or recurrent ear infections
• Learning delays
• Heart defects
• Eye diseases

Learn more about Down syndrome.