Ann Catherine Heigl, a 19-year-old with Down syndrome, graduated from high school and became a student of George Mason University, through their LIFE program, a full-time college program for intellectually and developmentally disabled students. It’s one of only a few full-time college programs for people with special needs.

Not only is Ann Catherine an engaging and accomplished student at Mason. She is also making headlines for making the University’s Division One cheerleading squad. In attending Mason, Ann Catherine is embarking on the college experience that her brother, sister, and friends have told her about. Among her goals are to earn good grades and join a sorority, in addition to being a cheerleader. She looks forward to gaining independence and wants to learn how to teach and take care of young children.

According to the Today Show, which featured other trailblazers with Down Syndrome, people with Down syndrome have weaker muscle tone, so experts often warn them against playing sports. But more and more people with Down syndrome are pursuing athletics — everything from running marathons to powerlifting.