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University of Notre Dame and Holy Cross College Unite to Observe World Down Syndrome Day
NOTRE DAME, IN (March 20, 2013) The communities of the University of Notre Dame and Holy Cross College will unite on Thursday, March 21 in celebration of World Down Syndrome Day. World Down Syndrome Day is annually observed on 3/21 (March 21) to symbolize a third copy of the 21st chromosome found in people with Down syndrome. The day publicly celebrates the value, acceptance, and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. To commemorate World Down Syndrome Day this Thursday, March 21, a Mass will be held at 5:15 pm in the Basilica of the Sacred Heart on the campus of Notre Dame, followed by a reception in the atrium of Vincent Hall, located on the campus of Holy Cross.

Its an honor and delight to help offer hospitality to the wonderful families that will experience World Down Syndrome Day with us, said Joyce Johnstone, Ph.D., the Ryan Director of

Educational Outreach in Notre Dames Institute for Educational Initiatives and one of the leaders in this second annual partnership among faculty and staff members. Along with Holy Cross College, we at Notre Dame look forward to joining these families in prayer and in a celebration of solidarity and love. Members of the University of Notre Dame and Holy Cross College communities, along with the general public, are invited to attend this gathering, in support of Down Syndrome individuals, as well as their families. World Down Syndrome Day is a reminder of the value of life all life, Tina Holland, Ph.D., Executive Vice President/Provost at Holy Cross College stated. Let us be mindful of the courage, contributions, and significant voice of those with Down syndrome as we unite on World Down Syndrome Day in celebration, recognition, and to foster global awareness. Sponsorship of this free event is provided by the Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) and the Jacques Maritain Center. March 21, 2013 marks the eighth anniversary of World Down Syndrome Day, however has the distinction of being the first time World Down Syndrome Day will be officially observed by the United Nations. For more information on Holy Cross College, visit: www.hcc-nd.edu. ### Holy Cross College is a Catholic, four-year, co-educational, liberal arts institution founded in 1966 by the Brothers of Holy Cross. With a 13:1 faculty/student ratio, students find personal attention from professors who care about their success and development in mind, body, and spirit. The Four Pillars of the core curriculum include a professional internship, service to others, a global perspective experience, and a senior Capstone presentation which summarizes and synthesizes each students learning. Located in Notre Dame, Indiana, Holy Cross College

provides the best of both worlds: a close-knit, small college atmosphere with the resources and social opportunities of a large university.