Tanya Wyant, Vice President- Northeast

I deeply enjoy being in the human services field. For over 25 years I have dedicated my career to behavior health care from my early years in case management, family services, clinical services and care management to executive leadership. With over 12 years in leadership, I have overseen companies while working closely with BOD and have had the opportunity to lead many teams and departments. I have worked on feasibility studies, developed programs, and transitioned care coordination and case management service companies to health home care management and managed care.  Some of my other experience includes community and State presentations, grant writing, serving on committees and boards, preparing for JCAHO surveys and policy development.  

My other passion is teaching, where I have been an adjunct in the behavior and social sciences for over 13 years along with assisting doctoral students with their dissertation, overseeing practicums and mentoring students in the study abroad program. Overall, I am deeply grateful for working with wonderful colleagues and serving individuals and families.  

I was drawn to the national company appeal and came into Columbus as the Executive State Director for New Jersey. Since the start, I have been blessed to be part of an amazing team that embraces the mission of the company and works hard for the individuals and families we serve. The Columbus Organization is a great place to work and develop sustainable connections with colleagues and providers. Although we are a national company, its humbling to meet and work with so many people from various walks of life that are passionate about helping others while sharing the same vision. You really have that family feel at Columbus, and this trickles down to the individuals and families we support as well. 

My favorite activities for the most part involve everything that has to do with coastal living such as kayaking, sailing, bike riding and collecting sea shells. I also care for our local wildlife such as waterfowl and turtles, in addition to advocating for whale migration and sustaining the preservation of oceanic life. 

Pamela Stephens, Executive State Director

Pamela’s passion for helping people with mental health and developmental disabilities traces back to her undergraduate years at Montclair State University, where she earned a BA in Psychology. Early in her studies she made the decision to commit to serving others and to ensure that they receive the support they need to be able to live their fullest and most meaningful lives. Immediately after school she became a Vocational Rehabilitations Counselor. She then transitioned to the role of Program Coordinator where she gained experience in program coordination and administration. Pamela joined Support Coordination in 2016 as a Support Coordinator, where she developed a proficiency for navigating the new DDD fee-for-service system as it was being rolled out. She was quickly promoted to Regional Supervisor and then Director of Support Coordination. She is now the Executive Director at Columbus where she has been an integral part of the team since 2021. Pamela prides herself in leading a compassionate, caring and proactive team that delivers the best possible support to the members and families they serve. She looks forward to continuing to grow within the agency and to sharing the Columbus mission across the state.  

Janine Wolf

Janine is a Support Coordinator Supervisor for The Columbus Organization. She graduated from Rutgers University majoring in both Criminal Justice and Sociology with a minor in Criminology and received her master’s degree at Montclair State University for Child Advocacy and Public Policy. Janine has been in the field of Support Coordination for over 7 years. Her hobbies outside of work include spending time with her family, friends, and dog Gus. 

Kelsey Deeg

Kelsey is a Support Coordinator Supervisor for The Columbus Organization. She graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University with a major in Psychology and a minor in Social Service Advocacy. Kelsey was a research assistant on campus, where she studied the connection between feminism and body image. Kelsey has been in the field of Support Coordination for over 5 years. Kelsey coached a developmental sports team for the Special Olympics for over 6 years. Her hobbies outside of work include reading, attending sporting events, and spending time with her dog Starr. 

Shruti Tiwari

Shruti started her career in Support Coordination as a Support Coordinator in 2018 and was later promoted to Support Coordinator Supervisor in 2020. Shruti strives to build her team around a strength-based approach to reach their highest potential and growth as well as promoting self-care. Shruti has a strong passion for helping others and strives to meet their full potential. Shruti describes Columbus Organization as a very warm, and welcoming team of employees. Shruti earned her Bachelor of Social Work degree at Ramapo college, where she interned in various settings such as Care One, Care Plus, and CASA for Children. Shruti obtained her graduate degree in Master of Social work from New York University, where she completed her final placement at the County of Bergen, Family Guidance-Juvenile Family Crisis Intervention Unit providing counseling sessions to youth. Shruti enjoys the beach, photography, dancing, kickboxing, adventures, and spending quality time with friends and family.  

Tiffany Perez

Tiffany is a Support Coordinator Supervisor with 6 years of experience in the field of Support Coordination. Tiffany has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and Internship Credentials from The Department of Children and Families (CP&P Division). Tiffany is a passionate advocate for families in need, specifically, bilingual families, as her mission is to ensure their rights are respected and honored. Tiffany’s passion and commitment to help others is her driven motivation to build a strong and resourceful team of Support Coordinators.

Alexia McLeod

Alexia is a Quality Enhancement Coordinator with The Columbus Organization. She has over 9 years of experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She began her hands-on career in schools and residential settings. Alexia majored in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice at Fairleigh Dickinson University. In addition to her professional career, Alexia enjoys traveling and spending time with her family. 

Kiyoung Sung

Kiyoung is a Quality Enhancement Coordinator with The Columbus Organization. He conducts quality review checks of Individual Service Plans and approves them, so clients are able to engage in services. Kiyoung works with the support coordination team to ensure plans meet DDD standards. Kiyoung graduated from Ramapo College and holds a bachelor’s degree in social work. 

Wendy Y. Blanco

Wendy is a Quality Enhancement Coordinator with The Columbus Organization. She has been with Columbus for 5 years, where she has served as a Bilingual Support Coordinator, Rising Star and currently Quality Enhancement Coordinator. As QEC, she is dedicated to the process of improving quality and in turn fulfilling the needs of individuals served. In her leisure Wendy enjoys the outdoors, painting, and spending time with loved ones.  

Aneesha Davis

Senior Support Coordinator, Aneesha, has worked with individuals with disabilities for the past 7 years, serving in the capacity previously as a direct care support professional. Aneesha has a Master’s Degree in Human Resource, Training and Development from Seton Hall University. Aneesha has a Law Enforcement background but finds that her passion is more of integrating individuals with special needs into societal norms to promote a healthy and inclusive life in their communities.  

Hayley Zemann

Hayley has been working in the I/DD community for 7 years, 3 of which have been as a Support Coordinator. She graduated from Sacred Heart University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Since working at Columbus, she has been given the opportunity to take on a mentor role to assist with training new Support Coordinators. Some of her strengths include organization, communication, adaptability, and technology. The Columbus Organization’s mission aligns with her own values, which is just one reason why she is passionate about her job and takes pride in being a Support Coordinator.

Susan Hornak

Susan has been a Support Coordinator since 2017 and has over 20 years of healthcare operations and management experience. She earned a BS in Business Management and Marketing as well as a BA in Therapeutic Recreation from Kean College. She earned an MBA in Healthcare Administration from Moravian College in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania in 2012. Earlier in her career she was a Certified Recreation Therapist in a subacute setting, eventually becoming a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator and regional director of clinical sales. Susan served on the board of directors for MOCEANS Center for Independent Living for five years (serving as board secretary for three years), where she developed a passion for serving people with developmental disabilities. She presented such topics as inclusion and diversity in the workplace at the Philadelphia Federal Reserve Bank and increasing awareness of common barriers faced by people with disabling conditions in the workplace at the Facing the Future annual conference. She is a widely published ghost writer, essayist on voice loss and romantic short story authoress. In her free time, Susan is an avid crochet artist designing patterns and teaching others how to create works of art. She has donated her time to the American Diabetes Association, MOCEANS and NORWESCAP, a local organization where she helped to facilitate a course on fall prevention for older adults. 

Aileen Battle

Aileen completed her bachelor’s degrees at Kean University for Psychology and Sociology, along with a minor in Women’s and Gender Studies. She continued to get her master’s degree in Applied Psychology with a focus in Applied Behavior Analysis under the Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology at Rutgers University. During her attendance, she completed her practicum experience under Rutgers Center for Adult Autism Services, where she worked with Rutgers students on the Autism Spectrum as a Program Coordinator. She had a case load of students and assisted in the development of a 4-year educational curriculum with the hopes that the program could transfer into an accredited class. During this time, she also worked as a Behavior Technician and held an administrative position in the Center for Alcohol Studies. These experiences helped to raise Aileen’s awareness of the achievement gaps within the healthcare, educational, and professional systems and people who are neurodiverse or struggling with mental health issues. With Aileen’s personal and professional experience with mental health comes her passion to help others feel a sense of autonomy in their lives and to build a repertoire in setting and reaching goals. In her current position as a Support Coordinator, she appreciates that she can help DDD clients reach their personal and professional goals by introducing them to local supports. In her free time, Aileen enjoys reading, watching documentaries, and going on hikes.  

Andrew D.

Having earned a bachelor’s degree with a background in social work, Andrew has gained valuable experience through his hands-on work in behavioral therapy for children with autism. This experience has provided him with a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. In his current role as a Support Coordinator, Andrew draws on this experience to navigate complex systems, ensuring that the people he serves receive the appropriate services and resources. Andrew finds immense satisfaction in helping families overcome obstacles, advocating for their needs and seeing members achieve milestones they once thought were out of reach.

Amatallah Ali

My name is Amatallah Najla Ali. I am a mother, grandmother, and advocate for people with developmental disabilities. I have a close relative who is a part of the DDD population. I have strongly advocated for him for all of his thirty-five years. This is where my interest with helping people with developmental disabilities began. The bulk of my experience with this population has been in group home management. I have managed DDD group homes for the past 15 years across several agencies. I decided that I still wanted to serve the population; however, in a different capacity. I found myself doing support coordination in 2022. For a short time, I explored support coordination and returned to group home management—-still looking back. Finally, I made it to The Columbus Organization, and I love it. I am happy and eager to do what it takes to help our individuals be successful every day.

Asia Fudge

Asia describes herself as a strong black woman that wears many hats. She is a mother, social worker, advocator, always striving for success and achieving her goals. She is very passionate and dedicated to helping others no matter what population she serves. Asia’s personal and educational experience have contributed to her career as a Social Worker and her current role as a Support Coordinator. She is patient, kind, and has a great sense of humor. She strives going above and beyond to support others as it is a personal reward for her in life to make a difference in the life of someone else.

Catherine McGlynn

My name is Kate McGlynn, and I work as a Support Coordinator for the Columbus Organization. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics and Minor in Public Health at La Salle University in 2017. I have over 2 years’ experience working with individuals with disabilities, providing services such as physical education, nutrition and valuable skills for everyday life. My passion comes from a strong desire to help individuals achieve and sustain the best life possible.  My hobbies outside of work include watching football, spending quality time with my family and friends, walking/going to the gym and relaxing with my cat, Chip.

Cristal Vargas

Since February of 2019, Cristal has held the position of Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), and she is now pursuing a Master of Arts in Special Education (Applied Behavior Analyst) (BCBA) at Arizona State University. Since June of 2022, Cristal has been working as a support coordinator. She accomplishes both the task of Intensive Care Management and acting as an advocate for clients on a higher tier. Her background as a Registered Behavior Technician in the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sector comes from the state of New Jersey, where she works with children ranging in age from 0 to 21. In addition, she worked with (Individual Support Services) as an ISS supervisor, which required her to closely monitor the work of other RBTs and therapists. During the last four years, Cristal has worked with over fifty families, all of whom were in very different settings, such as an educational system, a clinic-centered based, and home setting.  Cristal has a deep and genuine commitment to the improvement of the lives of her clients.  According to the statement made by Cristal, “Every child and adult with a disability deserves proper ethical interventions and ethical services.” 

Danielle Houston

Danielle graduated from William Paterson University with a BA in Liberal Studies with the concentrations of Psychology and Sociology. She has been in this field for 6 years. Danielle started working as a caregiver for people with Alzheimer’s and transitioned to working with individuals with developmental disabilities in a Group Home and at a Day Program. She has gained a lot of experience while working with this population. She continues to gain experience while being a Support Coordinator and learning how to navigate a fluctuating caseload.  

Dyneekah Bogan

Dyneekah is a Support Coordinator for The Columbus Organization. She graduated from the College of Saint Elizabeth with a Major in American Studies and a minor in Leadership. Dyneekah worked as an individual support person providing in–home support services for individuals. Dyneekah has been in the field of Support Coordination for 4 years. When she is not working, she is spending time with her two children. 

Emma Ogden

Emma is a Support Coordinator for The Columbus Organization. She has been working with Columbus for two years and has been a Support Coordinator for four years all together. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science from Stockton University. Emma has always been passionate about social advocacy and Human Rights and has known she wanted to work helping people since she was little. She is passionate about using her resources and her voice to help those who are unable to help themselves. When not working, she loves to volunteer at animal shelters, travel, and spend time with people that are important to her.

Emmanuela Noel

Emmanuela is a Support Coordinator for The Columbus Organization. She graduated from Rutgers University with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology. Emmanuela also earned a Graduate Certificate in Health Care Compliance from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. Emmanuela has been in the field of Support Coordination for a year. However, Emmanuela has worked with the Developmentally Disabled population for 14 years as a mental health counselor and manager. In her spare time, she volunteers with her community’s food pantry. 

Erica Lill

Erica is a Support Coordinator for The Columbus Organization. She graduated from Sacred Heart University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Erica also earned a master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas. Erica has over ten years of experience working in various roles in social services. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, advocating for animals, and traveling. 

Iyana Stuckey

Iyana is a Support Coordinator for The Columbus Organization. She has a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Minor in Sociology from Rutgers University. Iyana started her career work with individuals with Developmental Disabilities in 2015 when she became a teacher’s assistant working with kindergarten students with autism; from there she has worked with a range of ages and disabilities in school and residential settings. She left the residential field after 5 years and has been in the field of Support Coordination since May 2022. Iyana is passionate about helping others and advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves. 

Janna Heredia

Janna is a Support Coordinator for The Columbus Organization, she serves both English and Spanish speaking members. Prior to being a Support Coordinator, she worked at a mental health clinic. She graduated from Seton Hall University with a major in Psychology and a minor in Criminal Justice. She is now starting a master’s in social work. What drives Janna to be a Support Coordinator is her dedication to uplifting individuals in the community. 

Katelyn Deluccia

Katelyn is a Support Coordinator with The Columbus Organization and has been a Support Coordinator for over four years. She graduated from William Paterson with a Bachelor’s degree in English and Sociology. Katelyn started volunteering for the Special Olympics when she was in high school and knew that she wanted to work with individuals with developmental disabilities. Katelyn has experience as an SDE and DSP working with several families. Katelyn also worked at a local day program for several months.  In Katelyn’s free time she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and dog, Bailey.

Khris-Ann Bent

Khris-Ann has been a Support Coordinator with the Columbus Organization since 2018. Before working at the Columbus Organization, Khris-Ann worked as a Support Coordinator for Progressive Comprehensive Services and as a Direct Support Staff at Assistive Choices. She also interned at 2nd Home Medical Day Care and Family Promise of Essex County, providing Case management for the homeless and elderly. Outside of work Khris-Ann enjoys reading, listening to music, traveling and trying restaurants from various cultures. Khris-Ann is driven towards Support Coordination to continue to assess the individuals on her case load lead a successful, independent and meaningful life.

Latosha Jackson

Latosha earned a BA from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey where she double majored in Theater Arts and Africana Studies. Inspired by relatives with special needs, she subsequently became a certified NJ Elementary Teacher (K-6) and Teacher of Students with Disabilities. After several years of teaching in public school, she transitioned into adult disability services and has spent the last 4+ years as a Support Coordinator. Latosha is a passionate advocate and always strives to ensure that her clients are respected and supported. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with loved ones and cheering on clients and relatives at various Special Olympics events. 

Lenika Olivry

Lenika is a Support Coordinator for The Columbus Organization and is based in Northern New Jersey.  She has been a support coordinator for the past three years and is dedicated to serving the I/DD population. Lenika graduated from Ramapo College of New Jersey with her bachelor’s and completed their accelerated master’s degree program in social work. She is a lifelong learner inspired by her clients and is in pursuit of gaining her clinical license in social work to further assist the I/DD population with therapeutic services. In her free time, Lenika enjoys spending time with her family and close friends discovering new places in unfamiliar surroundings. 

Malyka Thelemaque

Upon graduating from Rutgers University with a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration, Malyka started her career as a Quality Assurance Coordinator. After fulfilling three years as a Quality Assurance Coordinator/ISP Manager, she secured a position with The Columbus Organization as a Support Coordinator last summer. Malyka is proud to be part of The Columbus Organization where she has made a meaningful difference in the lives of adults with developmental disabilities and the families she serves. 

Marcela Lewanski

Marcela is a Support Coordinator for The Columbus Organization. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Rutgers University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. During her time as a scholar Marcela worked as a tutor and note taker for her school’s disability department where she discovered her passion for advocating for others. Marcela has been in the field of support coordination for 2 years. During her free time, Marcela does volunteer work with the Salvation Army, and Make the Road NJ. Marcela is passionate about law, human rights, and animals. Marcela’s favorite hobbies include making and editing food videos to post online, reading, dancing Zumba, hiking, traveling, and spending time with her pets. 

Ming Louie

Ming has been active in all aspects of the social services field. He was a Behavioral Health Counselor for 2 years, a Group Home Manager where he supervised a house of individuals with developmental and mental disabilities for 2 years, a Group Facilitator at a day program for individuals with mental disorders for 3 years. He has been with The Columbus Organization for the past two years plus . Ming has clients in Passaic, Middlesex, Morris, Union, and Somerset Counties. Ming enjoys the fulfillment he gets from the many providers, guardians, and most importantly the individuals he serves upon seeing their many accomplishments.  In his spare time, Ming is an avid movie fan, and attends the theater both on and offstage. He volunteers for the Holidays and assists with feeding the homeless and volunteers on a crisis hotline near his house in his spare time. 

Nicole Campagnola

Nicole is a support coordinator for the Columbus Organization. She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and minor in Social Work from Rider University. Nicole also has her master’s degree in School Counseling from Rider. Nicole has been in the field of Support Coordination for almost 2 years starting with Shift NJ. Her hobbies outside of work are going to the beach, reading, and spending time with her family and dog. 

Pamela Drake

Pamela has been a Support Coordinator for almost three years now coming to The Columbus Organization in December of 2020. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Phoenix online program. Pamela began working as a Direct Support Professional at a day program in 2012. While continuing to work at the day program, Pamela also worked part time in group homes and in supported living setting before becoming a Support Coordinator in August of 2020.  Pamela has three children, together they love to go to theme parks, camping, swimming, watching movies and spending time with friends and family. Pamela is excited to continue to grow and learn as a Support Coordinator and to continue to connect with the families at The Columbus Organization. 

Perpetual Yankholmes

Helping humanity in any way possible has been Perpetual’s desire and dream, especially being able to advocate for the helpless from all walks of life and giving assistance to individuals to maintain their dignity with passion and empathy.

Rahminique Hill

 

My name is Rahminique Hill and I am Support Coordinator. I’m compassionate, ambitious and very determined to help others. My Psychology degree from Rutgers University has provided me with a clear understanding of the fundamentals of human behavior.  Additionally, I possess over fifteen years of social service experience, and I have had the opportunity to service a wide variety of individuals from different social and economic backgrounds. Which includes but isn’t limited to, at risk homeless youth, teen parents, ex-offenders, alternative adolescents, geriatric, developmentally disabled and more. I take great pride in improving situations and the quality of life for others with the implementation of a formulated person centered plan for success.

Regina Munford

Regina is a Support Coordinator for The Columbus Organization.  She graduated from Kean University with a major in Communications.  Regina was a support coordinator in a shelter where she assisted unaccompanied youth reconnect with their families. Regina has worked in the field of Social Services for over a decade.  Regina enjoys advocating for her clients, being part of a team and spending time with family. 

Rita Ogbu

Rita is a Support Coordinator from The Columbus organization. As a support coordinator she helps her clients understand their support options, access and organize those services. She supports her clients to advocate for themselves. Rita obtained her master’s degree on Organizational Leadership from Argosy University, and a bachelor’s degree in Natural Science from Felician Collage.  She describes herself as a very passionate person who cares deeply about those she serves. She cherishes that sense of satisfaction she gets from her clients, which motivates her to do more.  

Saray Crucey-Javier

Saray is a Support Coordinator for The Columbus Organization. Saray has a bachelor’s degree in child advocacy with a minor in Social Work from Montclair State University. Saray is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Applied Behavioral Analyst in hopes to become a BCBA at Kean University. Saray has a passion for working with people, helping minorities and advocating for all children despite their needs. Saray’s hobbies outside of work are exercising, going on vacation, and spending time with family and her puppies. 

Tiesha Fraser

Tiesha works as a Support Coordinator here at The Columbus Organization – covering Monmouth, Ocean, Middlesex, Union, and Somerset Counties. Tiesha brings with her over 10 years of experience working with DDD participants with intellectual disabilities. Tiesha spent 10 years working in Early Intervention as a Program Administrator, 2 years working in a Group Home setting, and over a year working as a Support Coordinator. Tiesha has a master’s degree in child advocacy and is licensed as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor. Tiesha loves traveling and spending her time off with family and friends. She is a Team Mom of Football and Basketball. She is a team player and highly dedicated to helping and motivating others.

Tiffany Gary

Tiffany is a Support Coordinator with The Columbus Organization. She is an accomplished young woman whose dedication to communication and service is truly inspiring. After graduating from the University at Buffalo with a degree in Communications and a background in Human Services, Tiffany has used her skills to make a positive impact in her community. Through her work in the field of Human Services, she has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a deep passion for helping others. She has a background in working to build and develop programs for Adults with Disabilities. She has served as the Director of two Adult Training Centers in NJ and helped to create a Medical Day Program. She has knowledge of the provider side of systems and supports for persons with disabilities and has been involved in the world of Support Coordination since 2015, when she independently enrolled in training to learn more about what the Support Coordinators’ role was while working to manage a Day Program. She wanted a better understanding of Support Coordination, so she could learn how to work to collaborate with Support Coordinators to best serve her clients. She is dedicated to excellent support and services for the people we serve and wants to ensure that they are truly able to live the lives that they have envisioned for themselves. She is an avid reader and loves writing. She has self-published two books. She also loves spending time with loved ones and traveling to tropical locations throughout the world.

Yvonne Smith

My name is Yvonne Smith, and I work as a Support Coordinator for the Columbus Organization. In 2003, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Advertising, Marketing & Communications from the Fashion Institute of technology (FIT). After college, I began my career within social services in the case management and housing department for an HIV Aids organization.  I have over 15 years’ experience working with individuals with physical and developmental disabilities including autism spectrum. The populations served during this time were youth ages 3 years to 17 years old as well as adults 21 years to seniors 65 and older.  Whether my professional or personal travels, I can lend my experiences to help others. My personal mission is to advocate for those unable to advocate for themselves. To this day, I’m happy to say, my mission has not wavered.

Zully Ehret

Zully has been employed as a Support Coordinator with The Columbus Organization since December 2021. Zully graduated from Georgian Court College with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Before becoming a support coordinator, Zully was employed with Ladacin Network for 17 years. Her role with the company was an instructor for the Schroth adult day program. In addition, Zully worked at the Ladacin Network residential group homes, Saturday Respite Program, The Lehmann After School Program (TAP), Give and Take Day Care, and was a one-on-one aide for a Spanish speaking student. Zully is fluent in Spanish. Zully’s primary focus for her clients is to be their advocate and to provide them with the resources needed for them to become successful in their personal or professional career.