The Down Syndrome Partnership of North Texas (DSPNT) is proud to announce the appointment of Heidi Angel as its first-ever Honorary Board Member. This newly established role recognizes individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact on the organization and its mission to support individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
Heidi, a partner at Jackson Walker LLP in the Trusts & Estates practice group, brings not only deep professional expertise but also a strong personal connection to DSPNT’s mission. Her daughter, Emily, is an active participant in DSPNT’s teen and family programming, which further fuels Heidi’s commitment to the organization’s continued success.
A former middle school Spanish teacher and sign language interpreter, Heidi holds a master’s degree in Linguistics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and earned her law degree from Texas A&M School of Law. She previously served on the DSPNT Board of Directors from 2014 to 2020, where she helped guide key strategic initiatives and contributed to the organization’s growth and sustainability.
“Having a child with Down syndrome has given me a personal connection to this mission,” said Heidi. “I understand the joys and challenges our families experience and know how critical it is to have an organization like DSPNT advocating, educating, and providing community for us all.”
In her professional role, Heidi focuses on estate planning, including special needs trusts and disability-related planning. She is a respected voice in the field and frequently speaks on guardianship and special needs planning for organizations such as The Arc, IDD Council, Cook Children’s, and various Special Education PTAs.
The Honorary Board Member designation is a non-voting advisory role designed to tap the wisdom and experience of past board members and community leaders who remain committed to the mission of DSPNT.
“We are thrilled to have Heidi serve in this new capacity,” said Kim Smiley, Executive Director of DSPNT. “Her insights, professional knowledge, and unwavering passion for our families make her an invaluable asset to our board and organization.”
As an Honorary Board Member, Heidi will continue to support DSPNT’s advocacy, education, and outreach efforts—ensuring that families across North Texas have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
For more information about DSPNT or to get involved, please visit www.dspnt.org.
