Jonell Adams (Founder/CEO)
John Quincy Adams once observed that “Great leaders inspire others to do more…so that we all can become more.” A widely accepted view of the characteristics of leadership includes optimism for the future, the ability to communicate perspectives, and an innate talent for problem-solving; adding to this list of important leadership qualities, we must include being visionary and innovative. The board members of Special Needs Advocacy of Cobb Kids, Inc. (S.N.A.C.K.) are indeed fortunate.
Ms. Adams successfully completed her formal dual course of undergraduate studies in Early Childhood and Special Education at Mercer University. She earned her Master’s in Early Childhood Education from Kennesaw State University in 2018. In 2023, Ms. Adams completed her Education Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She is an innovative, dynamic leader who seeks to blaze exciting new trails, finding unique opportunities to aid S.N.A.C.K. as it responds to the challenges of providing services to stakeholders who support children with special needs. Her leadership both encourages and inspires us to be more.
Janice Hewey (Board Member)
Ms. Janice J. Hewey has served in public education, nourishing boys and girls in two states. During her 45 years, she continues to find the energy and the commitment to provide students with high-quality instruction. According to Ms. Hewey, “Teaching is something I love to do and I just love children.” She has been recognized for her exemplary service as a Teacher of the Year on more than one occasion. This level of achievement speaks to her overarching excellence and her superior pedagogical style.
As a board member of S.N.A.C.K., Ms. Hewey contributes her wisdom and her wealth of experience to serve as a guide and a model for qualitative efficiency. Her energy, passion, and her sincere desire to serve her students and her community are equally infectious and stimulating. After completing her undergraduate studies at Albany State University, Ms. Hewey not only acquired a Master of Arts in Elementary Education but went on to earn an Educational Specialist in Curriculum &Instruction from Argosy University. This tireless and devoted servant lends her untapped resources and her abundant generosity to our cause and mission.
Dr. Deniqua Jackson (Board Member)
Dr. Deniqua Ladson received her Doctorate degree in Business Administration, with a concentration in Leadership, in 2019 from Walden University. She also received her Master of Business Administration from Texas A&M, and her undergraduate degree from Winthrop University, majoring in Business Administration. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity. She is also a member of other globally recognized organizations, including the National Honor Society, and Delta Mu Delta, a renowned Business Management organization.
Deniqua’s has numerous years of experience as a Senior Business Analyst/ Business Consultant and as a Curriculum Designer. Deniqua is also a Qualitative Researcher and Qualitative Editor, with many years of experience. Deniqua is the founder of Koncrete R.O.S.E., a mentoring group, founded to inspire and encourage young women to be ambitious and to believe in themselves.
Jayda Adams (Community Service Coordinator)
Ms. Jayda Adams is a current Occupational Therapy graduate student at Brenau University with a passion for improving the lives of individuals with special needs. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Kennesaw State University. Her journey has led her to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, ensuring comprehensive patient care. Beyond the realm of healthcare, she has made a positive impact at S.N.A.C.K., where she actively assists children with special needs through events, volunteer coordination, fundraisers, and awareness campaigns. She is committed to nurturing the potential of children with special needs and believes our organization stands as a beacon of transformative initiatives that not only touch lives but also champion inclusivity.
Alyse-Noel Hicks (Digital Media Creator)
Alyse-Noël Hicks is a recent Georgetown University graduate, obtaining her Master’s degree in Public Relations and Corporate Communications. She currently works as a Strategic Communications Specialist at the American Institutes for Research (AIR) and resides in Arlington, VA. While pursuing her Master’s degree, she served as a Communications Assistant for the Georgetown University Association of Retired Faculty and Staff (GUARFS). She held multiple communications and digital marketing internships throughout her 2-year program. Prior to receiving her Master, Alyse-Noël received her Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications with a Public Relations concentration and a Marketing minor from the University of West Georgia (UWG). She also acquired an Advertising certificate from the university’s business school. In her free time, Alyse-Noël loves to read and write, shop, spend time with friends and family, work out, and volunteer in her community.