FORT WAYNE — Emotions ran high at Gigi’s Playhouse on Thursday as four students became the newest graduates of Gigi University, marking the first graduation of 2025 from the nationally recognized Down Syndrome Achievement Center.
After 15 weeks of intensive learning, self-development, and workplace readiness training, the graduates were celebrated in a heartfelt ceremony surrounded by family, peers, and educators who have been cheering them on every step of the way.
“The first day is always different because they’re very nervous… but you can literally watch their confidence grow in 15 weeks,” said Kim Jones, Program Manager at Gigi’s Playhouse. “It’s just the most amazing thing to witness.”
More Than a Classroom
The Gigi University program, which runs three days a week over a three-month period, is designed to equip adults with Down Syndrome with tools for professional success and independent living. But as Thursday’s celebration made clear, it’s also about friendship, empowerment, and believing in possibilities.
Graduate Ka’mari Young proudly shared some of what she learned:
“Math, science, English, and reading… they teached how to tie my shoes, and my friends.”
Beyond academics, students are taught essential life and social skills—everything from workplace etiquette to personal wellness, all delivered in a nurturing and interactive environment.
Speech Support and Peer Mentoring
Adding a unique dimension to this cohort’s experience was the involvement of speech and language students from Purdue Fort Wayne (PFW). Two PFW students, under the guidance of a faculty member, volunteered weekly to support the graduates in developing their communication and presentation skills.
“It just means everything,” said Jones. “The students can talk to them in a way that’s a little bit different—it’s more of a peer relationship, which goes a long way.”
That connection was especially important for graduate Salvador Spinello, whose achievements include not only completing the program, but also becoming the first person in his family to learn English.
“I’m thankful for me, for the congratulations to me,” said Spinello with a beaming smile. “And I’m thankful because I have aspirations to become a chef.”
From Dreams to Action
Gigi University is more than a classroom—it’s a launchpad. Each graduate receives a personalized development plan, coaching, and a network of ongoing support through the national GiGi’s Playhouse network, which operates over 50 Down Syndrome Achievement Centers across the United States.
For Jones, who oversees the Fort Wayne program, the work is nothing short of transformational.
“This is a dream-come-true job,” she said. “I love empowering them to be the best they can be. And to see their growth is just amazing.”
GiGi’s Mission, Fort Wayne Pride
GiGi’s Playhouse in Fort Wayne continues to expand its reach and impact. Its mission—to change the way the world views Down Syndrome and to send a global message of acceptance for all—has never felt more urgent or more joyous.
The next session of Gigi University is already in planning, but for Thursday’s four graduates, the moment was all about looking forward—with confidence, pride, and big dreams.
