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Elizabeth McKenna, President
Elizabeth McKenna has called Columbia home for much of her life, growing up in Forest Acres and graduating from Richland Two schools. She holds a BA in Communication Studies from Clemson University and an MAT in Early Childhood Education from The College of Charleston. She is a former public school kindergarten teacher, earning National Board certification in 2018. Elizabeth now leads outdoor, play-based classes for young children and their caregivers and, more importantly, serves as “mom” to two young children.
Elizabeth is the proud founder and president of Down Syndrome Families of the Midlands. She felt compelled to begin this organization after becoming mother to her daughter Parker, who was born with Down syndrome in 2018. Upon leaving the traditional classroom role when her daughter was a toddler, Elizabeth became passionate about disability advocacy and unlearning internalized ableism (the belief that disabled people are inferior to those without). After a few years of listening, reading, and learning, she wanted to take her advocacy efforts to the wider midlands area. Her vision was a nonprofit that would bring together our local Down syndrome community and their loved ones.
Elizabeth is married to her husband Marc, who has been a wonderful support system while she takes on this endeavor. She also recently authored "Hooray for World Down Syndrome Day," a book teaching young children about Down syndrome and inclusion. Parker has shifted Elizabeth's life purpose in the best possible way. Now, she aims to help others see the inherent worth of people with Down syndrome and anyone society has traditionally cast to the margins.
Mike Walsh, Vice President
Mike Walsh lives in Lexington, SC with his wife, Hollis, and two sons Charles and Victor. Mike is a dedicated Sales Manager for FedEx Services, but his most profound role is being a loving father to his seven-year-old son, Victor, who has Down syndrome. Inspired by Victor’s journey, Mike is passionately invested in doing good through Down Syndrome Families of the Midlands. Mike believes strongly in inclusion and advocates for a society that embraces and supports individuals of all abilities. He channels his passion for advocacy into his work, striving to create a more inclusive world for his son and others like him. Mike exemplifies the power of love, acceptance, and determination in making a difference in the lives of individuals with Down syndrome.
India Mack, Secretary
India Mack is a proud native of Columbia, SC, where her journey of compassion and service began. She holds a bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering and a master's in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina, laying the foundation for her professional and personal pursuits. As an IT Business Account Manager for Dominion Energy, India navigates the intersection of technology and business strategy.
Beyond her corporate role, India's heart lies in her role as Secretary for Down Syndrome Families of the Midlands. In this capacity, she ensures that board communications and governance processes run smoothly, fostering efficiency and transparency within the organization. India's commitment to serving the Down syndrome community is deeply personal, rooted in her love for her son Andy, who was born with Down syndrome and later diagnosed with Autism. It's this love and firsthand experience that fuels her purpose and dedication to the goals and vision of Down Syndrome Families of the Midlands.
On a more personal note, India is happily married to Anderson Mack III, and together they cherish their family of five, which includes their children Alexis, Andy, and Aiden. India's philosophy, inspired by her IT background and unwavering faith, is encapsulated in "Control+Alt+Delete" – a reminder that God is always in control, to bring everything to the altar, and to delete negativity from our lives. This mantra guides her both personally and professionally, driving her to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
Nick Annan, Treasurer
Nick Annan, a seasoned professional in the field of accounting and finance, brings his expertise and passion for community service to his role as Board Treasurer for Down Syndrome Families of the Midlands. Originally from Woodbridge, VA, Nick's journey led him to the University of South Carolina, where he earned his accounting degree in 2008, followed by an MBA in 2014. He is a licensed CPA and serves as a Director for Accounting Advisory Services at Elliott Davis, where he utilizes his skills to provide financial guidance to customers.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Nick's commitment to serving others is deeply ingrained in his personal values. He is married to Katie Annan and is the proud father of his son, Noah. Nick's dedication to his family extends to his broader community involvement, where he actively volunteers as the Vice Chair of the Board for Carolina Crown in Fort Mill, SC, and as Board Treasurer for the Transitions Homeless Shelter in Columbia, SC.
Nick's involvement with Down Syndrome Families of the Midlands is driven by his profound respect for diversity and inclusion. While he does not have a family member with Down syndrome, his close friendships with families who do have deeply influenced his perspective. Nick is passionate about advocating for the rights and well-being of individuals with Down syndrome and their families, ensuring they have access to resources and support to thrive. His unwavering dedication to service and his belief in the inherent value of every individual exemplify the core values of Down Syndrome Families of the Midlands.
Drew Walker, Board Member
My name is Drew Walker, and I am so proud to be a part of DSFM. My youngest child Jayne was born in 2018 with Down Syndrome. She was born with a heart defect that was compassionately cured by the hands of surgeons at MUSC and through the care of Prisma. We learned of her diagnosis before she was born, which brought so many emotions with it. She is our youngest of three children, and our life could not be as rich as it is without her. She brings so many blessings and joy into the Walker family. I would love to share more about my experience with you.
I’m a local attorney in Columbia. I enjoy practicing law and balancing that with the joy of being a father to Jayne, Alice Rushton, and Andrew, and husband to my wife, who leads it all, Katie Alice. We are very involved at Eastminster Presbyterian Church.
I became involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters in 2012 with my Little, David Jackson. David is now in the Army after graduating high school and is doing great.
We value the community of Greater Columbia and the Midlands and are passionate about our State of South Carolina. Our State has a lot to offer, and a lot to achieve. We believe in always making all of our futures brighter.
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