Meet Our Team
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Margie Williamson
Executive Director
Margie@arcsc.org
Office: 803-748-5020, ext. 5#
Margie Williamson, Executive Director, began with The Arc of South Carolina in April of 2012. She had previously been in the nonprofit sector for more than 10 years. She brings a unique family perspective to the role of the Executive Director's position for The Arc of South Carolina because she is the parent of a child with Autism. She is passionate about her work with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through her early college years, she worked diligently with children on the Autism Spectrum, assisting with caregiver relief as well as advocating for services. During her time with The Arc of South Carolina, she has become a visible spokesperson on issues impacting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as their families.
Rachel Harry
Director of Quality Assurance
Rachel@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-665-0155
Rachel Harry, Director of Quality Assurance, grew up in San Diego, California. She joined our team at The Arc of South Carolina in August of 2016, after receiving her Bachelor's Degree in Public Health from the University of South Carolina. She is dedicated to working with individuals with lifelong disabilities to help them reach their maximum potential. Prior to joining The Arc, she provided direct patient support at various centers for disabilities. She enjoys working for an organization where she can help individuals with disabilities achieve increased respect and autonomy.
DeAndrea McMullen
Director of Case Management
DeAndrea@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-529-5308
DeAndrea McMullen, Director of Case Management, joined The Arc of South Carolina in May of 2015. She is a native of Rock Hill, South Carolina, and a 2009 graduate of Francis Marion University. DeAndrea's passion for working with individuals with special needs started with her work with children on the Autism Spectrum as a behavioral therapist. She remains enthusiastic about the opportunity to continue serving individuals with disabilities with such a great organization.
Danni Bloom
Director of Outreach & Policy
Danni@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-719-0137
Danni Bloom, Director of Outreach & Policy, is originally from the low country region of South Carolina and has lived all over the state, but now calls Chapin home. In October of 2000, Danni’s two-year-old son was diagnosed with autism, so The Arc’s mission is close to her heart. She graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social & Behavioral Sciences and received her Master of Business Administration Degree (MBA) from The Citadel. She served as a board member for The Arc of South Carolina for almost four years before transitioning into a contract position within the organization. Advocacy is her passion and she looks forward to continuing those efforts with The Arc of South Carolina family.
Derek Smoot
Case Management Supervisor
Derek@arcsc.org
Office: 803-748-5020, ext. 6#
Derek Smoot, Team Lead, is originally from Maryland and graduated from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice. He moved to Columbia in 2018. He is excited to work with The Arc of South Carolina and looks forward to assisting individuals and their families in achieving their goals. Derek's service areas include Saluda, Aiken, Allendale, and Barnwell Counties.
McCall Rice
Case Management Supervisor
McCall@arcsc.org
Cell: 843-252-1015
McCall Rice, Team Lead, grew up in Asheville, North Carolina and obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Social Work at the University of South Carolina in Columbia. McCall's personal passion for advocacy started at a young age, advocating and providing support for her friends and family members with intellectual and developmental disabilities. McCall was a camp counselor for four years at First Shine, an overnight and day camp for children and young adults with disabilities. She eventually assumed the role as Camp Director. McCall interned at The Arc of South Carolina for two years and joined the staff full-time in May of 2020. McCall's service areas include Charleston County and Edisto Island.
Ashleigh Little
Team Lead
Ashleigh@arcsc.org
Cell: 864-309-9172
Ashleigh Little, Team Lead, joined the Arc of South Carolina in September of 2018. She is a lifelong resident of the South Carolina Upstate who enjoys photography and creating art. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Art Therapy from Converse College (2011) and a Master's Degree in Human Behavior from Capella University (2014). Ashleigh has a heart for working with others to improve their lives, as demonstrated by her history working with various populations. She is thrilled to bring her passion to The Arc of South Carolina, and to be a part of such a wonderful organization. Ashleigh's service area includes Greenville County.
Labresha Ratchford
Team Lead
Labresha@arcsc.org
Cell: 864-559-0632
Labresha Ratchford, Team Lead, joined The Arc of South Carolina's team in April of 2019. She is a native of the Upstate area and received a Master in Business Administration Degree (MBA) with a concentration in Human Resources Leadership from Strayer University in 2021. She brings with her 9 years of experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She is the mother of 2 beautiful children and is very excited to continue to work with the families and clients of this great organization. Labresha's service areas include Spartanburg, Union, and Cherokee Counties.
Nicole Damanis
Team Lead
Nicole@arcsc.org
Cell: 843-252-7445
Nicole Damanis, Team Lead, is an Illinois native who moved to the Charleston, South Carolina, area with her husband and three dogs in July 2021. She graduated from Indiana State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. Nicole enjoys photography and spending time outdoors. She has worked with the mental health population and is excited to grow with the team at The Arc of South Carolina. Nicole's service areas include Moncks Corner and Goose Creek.
Jennifer Hilligus
Team Lead
Jennifer@arcsc.org
Cell: 843-940-0994
Jennifer Hilligus, Team Lead, is originally from the Finger Lakes Region of New York State. She received a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from Suny Brockport. Her previous work experience includes foster care program management and working with youth and families for more than 10 years. Jennifer moved to South Carolina in 2020 and is excited to be here on this new adventure with The Arc of South Carolina. Jennifer's service area includes Myrtle Beach.
Joe Covey
Case Manager
Joe@arcsc.org
Cell: 843-252-2579
Joe Covey, Case Manager, is originally from New Jersey. He lived in south Florida for 6 years prior to joining The Arc of South Carolina in October of 2018, after moving to Myrtle Beach. Joe has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Hofstra University. Before joining The Arc of South Carolina, Joe worked with both individuals with special needs and individuals receiving treatment for substance. He is passionate about this population and is eager to continue to provide assistance to individuals with disabilities and their families. Joe's service areas include Horry, Williamsburg, and Georgetown Counties.
Jasmaine Hughes
Case Manager
Jasmaine@arcsc.org
Cell: 864-772-9125
Jasmaine Hughes Miller, Case Manager, is a native of Cowpens, South Carolina. She graduated from South Carolina State University where she received a Bachelor's Degree in Family and Consumer Services/Business. Jasmaine has worked with individuals with special needs and disabilities for the past seven years. She is passionate about her work, her husband, and her family. Jasmaine's service area includes Spartanburg County.
Abby Rivera
Case Manager
Abby@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-665-0504
Abby Rivera, Case Manager, was born and raised in Puerto Rico. She has lived in New York, Connecticut, Virginia, Germany, Georgia and South Carolina. She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Columbia Southern University. Abby’s passion is to help parents of newly diagnosed children understand their child’s diagnosis and help them find the resources available to support them. She has previous experience working in the human services industry, and has a 9-year-old son who has been diagnosed with Autism, Type 1 Diabetes, and ADHD. Abby's service areas include Richland, Fairfield, Lancaster, and Kershaw Counties.
Hayden Redding
Case Manager
Hayden@arcsc.org
Cell: 864-202-8655
Hayden Redding, Case Manager, is originally from the north-side of Greenville, South Carolina, but now lives in Anderson County. Hayden received her Bachelor's Degree in Sociology and a double-minor in Child & Family Studies and Psychology at Lander University. During her college internship, she worked at United Ministries with the homeless population. Hayden has a passion for helping individuals and families with special needs. She volunteered with the Burton Center, and worked as an Early Interventionist for almost 3 years with Ahead Start. These experiences provided her with many resources that will be helpful as a case manager at The Arc of South Carolina. Hayden's service area includes Anderson County.
Takicia Otero
Case Manager
Takicia@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-665-0431
Takicia Otero, Case Manager, is originally from New Jersey, but moved to South Carolina in 2006. She has served children with special needs for over 20 years. Her passion for helping children and their families led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree in Sociology from Coker University. Takicia previously worked as a Case Manager with the Department of Social Services. She remains excited about working with The Arc of South Carolina to advocate and support children and families who have been affected by intellectual and developmental disabilities Takicia's service areas include Darlington, Florence, Chesterfield, Sumter, and Clarendon Counties.
Alyssa Tanczos
Case Manager
Alyssa@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-243-0542
Alyssa Rosenfeld Tanczos, Case Manager, moved to South Carolina from New York and joined our organization in January of 2018. She came to us with 13 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities in the nonprofit, special needs field. Her experience ranged from working with adults in a day program, and a community and residential setting. Alyssa was also an instructor for adults with disabilities, and worked with children in a residential foster facility. Alyssa has always had a passion to work with individuals with disabilities, helping them become as successful as possible. In Ohio, Alyssa helped a wheelchair sports team and while in New York, she assisted a special needs soccer team. She enjoys helping individuals become as independent as possible and working with wonderful families. Alyssa's service area includes York County.
Lauren Ammermann
Case Manager
Lauren@arcsc.org
Cell: 864-341-6169
Lauren Ammermann, Case Manager, is originally from Cheraw, South Carolina but has relocated to Easley. Lauren received her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of South Carolina. Lauren enjoys working with individuals with special needs and their families. Before joining the Arc of South Carolina, Lauren worked as an Early Interventionist. Lauren looks forward to working with her clients and their families, and is excited about setting up services to help meet needs. Lauren's service area includes Oconee County.
Amanda Harris
Case Manager
Amanda@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-869-0747
Amanda Harris, Case Manager, joined The Arc of South Carolina in January 2022. She is a Winthrop University graduate with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Special Education. She is currently working to get her Master's Degree in Divergent Learning from Columbia College. Amanda has always had a heart for helping those with disabilities. At 15 years of age, she discovered her passion for working with people who have special needs while working as a peer buddy. Amanda has many years of experience in teaching special education at the elementary and high school level. She is passionate about her family, cooking, and the mountains, and is excited to be a part of The Arc of South Carolina. Amanda's service areas include Lexington, Gilbert, Leesville, and Pelion.
Amy Siders
Case Manager
Amy@arcsc.org
Cell: 843-304-5223
Amy Siders, Case Manager, is from West Virginia, where she lived her entire life before moving to Hilton Head Island with her husband Alan in 2018 and fulfilling a lifelong dream of living by the shore. She is a graduate of West Virginia University with a BA in Psychology, and completed her Master’s Degree in Counseling at Marshall University Graduate College. Amy has worked as a Case Manager for over 20 years, serving different populations. She is passionate about advocating for
families and finding solutions to difficult situations. Amy has two adult children. In addition to being a mom, Amy enjoys painting and hunting for shells and other beach treasures. Since moving to the Lowcountry, Amy has enjoyed photographing the beautiful surroundings, especially the ocean, sunsets and shore birds. Amy's service area includes Beaufort County.
Marcia Jaggers
Case Manager
Marcia@arcsc.org
Cell: 864-788-2789
Marcia Jaggers, Case Manager, joined The Arc of South Carolina in February of 2022. She is a native of Chesterfield, South Carolina but has resided in Spartanburg since 2007, and now calls that home. She graduated from Lander University in 1998 with a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology, and received her Master's of Science Degree in Human Services with an emphasis on Community Psychology Counseling from Springfield College in 2006. She has worked in the field of Disabilities and Special Needs for more than 15 years and feels that it is her passion to continue to serve this population. She is married with 2 adorable sons. Marcia's service area includes Union County.
Jada Howard
Case Manager
Jada@arcsc.org
Cell: 864-794-0603
Jada Howard is a native of Greenville, South Carolina. She joined the team at The Arc of South Carolina in August 2021. Jada graduated from Mars Hill University and received her Bachelor's Degree in Social Work. She is excited to embark on her new journey as a Case Manager to help people with special needs. Jada looks forward to meeting with clients and families and setting up services to help them reach their goals. Jada's service areas include Pickens and Greenville Counties.
Paige Constantino
Case Manager
Paige@arcsc.org
Cell: 864-205-8982
Paige Constantino, Case Manager, is a native of Greenville, South Carolina and graduated from Coastal Carolina University. She has worked in the human services field since 1999, including the Department of Social Services and the Department of Mental Health. She has a passion for making a difference in the lives of others and has enjoyed working as a case manager for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for the past 12 years. Paige's service area includes Spartanburg County.
Irene Shockley
Case Manager
Irene@arcsc.org
Cell: 864-341-9798
Irene Shockley, Case Manager, joined The Arc of South Carolina in April, 2022. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies from the University of Virginia and a Master’s degree in Education from Claremont Graduate University. Irene taught second grade and fourth grade for several years, and then became a case manager in 2008. She is passionate about serving individuals with disabilities and working with them to achieve their goals. Irene lives with her husband, Ernie, and their three dogs, one cat, and four chickens. Irene's service area includes Pickens County.
Casey Hellthaler
Case Manager
Casey@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-967-8610
Casey Hellthaler, Case Manager, recently moved to Cayce, South Carolina from Connecticut. She is a 2017 graduate from Emmanuel College in Boston, Massachusetts where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. She has previously worked with individuals with disabilities as a Direct Support Professional and is excited to be part of the team at The Arc of South Carolina where she can help clients and their families. Casey's service areas include Columbia, Hopkins, and Eastover.
Lashanda Williams
Case Manager
Lashanda@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-665-0424
Lashanda Williams, Case Manager, grew up in Kingstree, South Carolina but later moved to Charlotte, North Carolina. There she received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Child and Family Development from the University of North Carolina, Charlotte. Prior to moving back to Columbia, South Carolina, Lashanda taught preschool for five years and that's where she developed her passion for working with children with special needs. Lashanda worked as an Early Interventionist before joining The Arc of South Carolina. Lashanda is looking forward to helping clients and families reach their goals. She is excited about working with such a great organization. Lashanda serves the Harbison area.
Jennifer Pugliese
Case Manager
Jenn@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-665-0196
Jennifer Pugliese, Case Manager, moved from Northwestern Pennsylvania to South Carolina in May of 2022. She and her family finally moved into their new home in Lexington in July of 2022. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Art with a Minor in Psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She spent 14 years as a single mother of 2 boys, one of whom has intellectual disabilities. When she remarried, she gained a daughter with intellectual disabilities, another son, and is now a proud mother of 4! She has 20 years of experience working with adults with intellectual disabilities and autism. She has worked for nonprofits as a director of day programs and with community-based group homes overseeing the day-to-day operations of the homes. Additionally, she has spent the past 15 years working for the State of Pennsylvania in a residential care facility where she held many positions, from direct care staff to upper management. She loves helping people advocate for themselves and their loved ones, and helping them live their best lives. She is excited to be with The Arc of South Carolina and looks forward to learning all that South Carolina has to offer. Jennifer’s service areas include Lexington, Saluda, and Edgefield Counties.
Jaleesa Morman
Case Manager
Jaleesa@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-243-1139
Jaleesa Morman, Case Manager, is originally from Florida and graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice. She moved to Fort Mill, SC in early 2021 and later joined The Arc of South Carolina in June of 2022. Jaleesa is excited about joining The Arc of South Carolina and interacting with clients and families to meet their goals. Jaleesa's service area includes York.
Brooke Bragg Chavis
Case Manager
Brooke@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-599-0301
Brooke Chavis, Case Manager, has lived in Barnwell, South Carolina her whole life and has really come to love the small, southern town she calls home. She attended the University of South Carolina and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Education. Wanting to help people is what really drove her to finish her degree. As a substitute teacher, she was limited on resources to help students and families, but as a case manager, she hopes to fulfill the needs of her clients. Brooke's service areas include Aiken and Orangeburg.
Natalie Daffern
Case Manager
Natalie@arcsc.org
Cell: 864-341-5424
Natalie Daffern, Case Manager, is originally from Grand Blanc, Michigan. She graduated from Oakland University with a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice, a Minor in Sociology with a concentration in Addiction Studies. While in college, she completed an internship at a non-profit child advocacy center for physical and sexual abuse. She moved to Nashville, Tennessee in 2021 and started a career in social work as a child protective services case manager. She relocated to Simpsonville, South Carolina in early 2022. Being an advocate for community members is something Natalie is very passionate about. She enjoys lending a helping hand whenever she is given the chance. Natalie’s service areas include Laurens and Greenwood Counties.
Carrie Morphis
Case Manager
Carrie@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-869-3833
Carrie Morphis, Case Manager, joined The Arc of South Carolina in September 2022. She is a Winthrop University graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master's Degree in School Psychology. She is a passionate advocate with deep ties to the community. Carrie has always enjoyed helping others and finds great satisfaction in seeing those she has helped succeed. She is proud to be a member of The Arc of South Carolina team. Carrie also enjoys spending time with her family at home and backpacking with her beloved Rottweiler. Carrie's service areas include Columbia and the Midlands.
Alexa Rae Carman
Case Manager
Alexa@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-665-0435
Alexa Rae Carman, Case Manager, moved to Chapin, South Carolina in 2022. She has a degree in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York. She previously worked at Options for Community Living, a nonprofit organization that serves individuals recovering from mental illness and those living with other chronic health conditions. Alexa is excited about expanding her knowledge with The Arc of South Carolina and assisting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Her service area includes Lexington County.
Meagan Spinks
Case Manager
Meagan@arcsc.org
Cell: 803-363-3031
Meagan Spinks, Case Manager, joined The Arc of South Carolina in October of 2022. She is a native of Rock Hill, South Carolina, and a 2011 graduate of Winthrop University with a Degree in Psychology. Meagan's passion for working in this field started with her internship with MaxAbilities (York County Board of Disabilities and Special Needs) where she then continued on as a case manager for 6 years. Meagan continues to have a true passion to work with individuals with special needs. Meagan's service area includes Fort Mill.
Shatara Jones
Case Manager
Shatara@arcsc.org
Cell: 843-301-4916
Shatara Jones, Case Manager, has lived in Charleston, South Carolina for a majority of her life. She graduated from Limestone College with a Degree in Social Work and a Minor in Psychology. Her greatest inspiration is her grandmother, who cares for her aunt who was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at birth. She is a dedicated caregiver and has provided exemplary care to this day. She taught her the importance of helping those who couldn't help themselves. Shatara has worked in many different residential and nursing facilities over the past 14 years and prides herself on the care she provided and compassion she exuded for others. The joy of being able to work with individuals with disabilities and special needs has always been a goal in her heart, along with helping spread awareness, advocacy and happiness for people who need it the most. Shatara's service areas include Summerville and Walterboro.
Samantha Noriega
Case Manager
Samantha@arcsc.org
Cell: 843-424-0488
Samantha Noriega, Case Manager, is originally from Onsted, Michigan. She is a Michigan State University graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. She moved to South Carolina in 2020 and joined The Arc of South Carolina in January 2023. She is excited to start her professional career advocating for individuals with disabilities. She is a proud member of the Rivertown Riders Riding Club and has a passion for helping others through charity event planning. Samantha’s service area is Conway.
Patty Terrasi
Case Manager
Patricia@arcsc.org
Cell: 843-484-1068
Patty Terrasi, Case Manager for the Arc of South Carolina recently located to Bluffton from Massachusetts. Having been a lifelong resident of Massachusetts, Patty grew tired of the snow and decided to fly south. Patty has been working in Human Services since 2012. Patty has worked with families, adults and children affected by both developmental/intellectual disabilities as well as individuals affected by behavioral health challenges. In addition to working in direct support roles, Patty has also worked as a Learning and Development Specialist facilitating orientations for new employees. Patty co-authored Shut Up About Your Perfect Kid! A Survival Guide for Ordinary Parents of Special Children, a book that explores the humorous, heartwarming side of raising children with special challenges. Patty, along with her sister, have had the privilege of speaking nationally at conferences, colleges/universities, elementary and
secondary schools as well as non-profits and various parenting groups. Patty's service area includes Jasper County.
Eme Conover
Case Manager
Emerson@arcsc.org
Cell: 843-484-1067
Emerson Conover, Case Manager, was born and raised in Connecticut. She has lived in the West for the past 5 years, and she is excited to be back on the East coast! She completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Brigham Young University – Idaho in December of 2021. Emerson has 3 years of experience working with children in school, community, and home settings and is apt at connecting families to needed resources. She also has experience working with people that have disabilities. Her passion is helping people get connected to the community and resources that they need to lead a better life. Emerson’s service area includes Charleston County.
