For University of Delaware alumnus Jon Tressler, the inspiration behind his career as a speech-language pathologist (SLP) has always been close to home - his younger sister, Hannah. Hannah has Down syndrome, but it's never defined her.

Self-determination and love from family and friends helped Hannah reach her goals, but Tressler also credits his sister's ability to communicate with the SLPs who supported her growing up.

"She's always been naturally gifted, funny and perceptive, but SLPs helped her to be engaging and assisted her in communicating her wants and needs," he said. "She never fails to impress me and is such a joy to be around."

From middle school through college, Tressler volunteered as a unified partner and coach with Special Olympics Delaware, which allowed him to spend more time with Hannah. He knew then that working with kids with disabilities was his calling.

In 2021, Tressler graduated from UD with his bachelor's in cognitive science and minors in disability studies and human development and family sciences. After earning his master's in speech-language pathology in 2024, Tressler began working as an SLP at Brader Elementary in the Christina School District, where he also supports students in the district's REACH Program, which serves students with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities.

"UD did an amazing job preparing me for my career," Tressler said. "The program within the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders was a nice balance of the foundational knowledge you need to be successful as an SLP and practical experience through community placements."