Grace Franko Barlow’s ’18, OTD, OTR, passion for supporting individuals with Down syndrome has been a
defining aspect of her career and personal journey.
As an undergraduate student at TCU, she dedicated her time to shadowing Sodi Matthews, former occupational therapist at KinderFrogs, TCU’s early intervention program that provides a developmentally appropriate educational environment for children with Down syndrome and other developmental delays.
That is where Franko Barlow learned firsthand how to support children with developmental challenges, fueling her drive to make a difference, particularly for children with Down syndrome.
Her early career focused on early intervention, working with young children (ages 0-3) and their families, ensuring they received the support they needed during critical developmental years.
Franko Barlow expanded her efforts to include elementary-aged children, where she worked one-on-one with students to promote inclusive learning in private school settings. Her work centered on empowering children with Down syndrome in classrooms, helping create an environment where every student could thrive.
While working for an occupational therapy practice in St. Louis, Franko Barlow played a pivotal role in building a community partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of St. Louis.
There, she developed programs that specifically addressed the needs of young adults with Down syndrome. These initiatives focused on skill development, fostering social connections, and promoting independent living—helping young adults integrate into their communities with confidence and support.
Now, as a member of the executive board of the Down Syndrome Partnership of North Texas, she brings her diverse experiences to further the organization’s mission. She leverages both her clinical expertise and personal insights to provide meaningful support to individuals with Down syndrome across the lifespan.
Her work on the board focuses on raising awareness, advocating for the Down syndrome community and promoting education and engagement opportunities for families and individuals alike.
Through her leadership, Franko Barlow continues to champion inclusivity, skill development and community-building, ensuring that individuals with Down syndrome and their families are supported in every stage of life.