Michelle Schwartz began her career as a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist & focused her skills on developing functional communication systems for individuals who use non-traditional communication methods. Her expertise is in supporting individuals who experience autism, developmental and intellectual disabilities & those with neurogenic disorders. Michelle has been integral in supporting individuals to transition to the community from institutions & hospital settings by facilitating person centered plans, securing service providers & assisting families within the transition process. Michelle believes that all individuals who experience disability have a right pursue their hopes, dreams and visions, to communicate & be heard & to be contributing & valued members of their communities.
Katie Chandler joined SUN after leading the Developmental Disability Program at the Georgia Advocacy Office, Georgia’s protection & advocacy agency. Katie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with her background in advocacy for those individuals who are marginalized. Katie focuses deeply on who people are, where people are coming from and what is needed to help get them where they want to be. She teaches Social Role Valorization and uses these principles to enhance her work of supporting people with disabilities to acquire and maintain valued social roles. Katie has spent her career supporting children and adults with developmental disabilities to be integrated & included in their communities.
Gabby Melnick joined SUN after serving as the Grants and Contracts Coordinator at the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities. As a trained graphic recorder and illustrator, Gabby uses visuals to help others realize their dreams, discover what more is possible and build relationships. She enthusiastically believes in everyone's capacity to be creative and is most passionate about supporting folks to find and tap into it. Gabby remains committed to using art to support spaces of connection, collaboration and belonging where every person’s gifts are recognized and celebrated.