Houston

Houston Vandergriff 23, is an award-winning travel photographer, wrestling enthusiast, and actor from Knoxville, Tennessee. He’s traveled with his family to a total of 26 countries and 48 US states, and has exhibited his work internationally, in addition to winning the “International Photographer Award” in an England-based competition. Houston obtained a photography certificate from the University of Tennessee, following 4 years of education, and has been busy documenting his travels since. In his gear kit are his Nikon camera body, a 50mm 1.2 fixed lens, and a 55-200mm telephoto lens. His mother Katie says, “He’s able to make people feel comfortable, and that shows up in his photographs, even when he’s not able to speak the language."

When not on the road, Houston’s favorite activity is watching wrestling on Youtube and WWE. He trained for a day under Tom Pritchard, who also trained professional wrestlers and The Rock! Houston is also a big Tennessee football fan and a monster truck rally enthusiast, having now been to numerous games and Monster Jams. These activities he particularly enjoys with his dad—who Houston refers to as “Buddy”—in addition to their Saturday morning Hardee’s breakfast tradition. Prior to the pandemic, Houston was also involved in Challenger Sports. Other favorite activities include kayaking, swimming, camping, and hiking.

Houston has also developed a knack for screen acting, with one noteworthy feature being his time on crime series “Homicide Hunter.” He played a character with Down syndrome who was murdered, complete with some (gory!) special effects makeup and doing his own stunts.

Now, Houston works one day per week at a resale shop, helping to set up merchandise, assist customers, and photograph inventory. Prior to this, he worked for 5 years at a frozen yogurt shop. Houston also interned at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, doing photography as part of the BEST program (Bridges to Employment in Services and Tourism). He’s been a greeter at his church and has participated in numerous mission trips.

Houston’s resume and list of skills is simply astounding. He’s one of many young people with Down syndrome shattering myths about what people with the condition can achieve. Katie says that “the medical community tends to focus on all of the negative things, but so many people don’t realize the positives… and there are SO many more positives. We look at Down syndrome as a super power.” We feel exactly the same way. Keep chasing your dreams, Houston!