Individuals living with disabilities essentially are deemed the expert regarding the nature of the wants and needs that bring about and/or sustain their independent living and quality of life goals.
Through our services, programs, activities, and our compassion for others and for community, we assist such individuals in their independent living pursuits.
We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, part of a statewide network funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education.
We are affiliated with the Statewide Independent Living Council of Georgia (SILC) and a proud advocate for the citizens of Georgia.
You don’t get a choice in your disability, but you do have the choice to persevere and overcome its limitations. Multiplechoices™ Center for Independent Living provides all the programs and guidance you need to grow as an individual. If you feel limited, let us open your eyes to the education, skills and information you need to succeed.
Meet the Board Members
Martine Adogu | First Year
Email: [email protected]
Martine Adogu, MD, serves as Ophthalmologist & Director of Surgical Services at Oconee Medical Group in Athens, GA, and has done so since 1998. She attended McGill University in Montreal, Canada, for her undergraduate studies. She received a University of Maryland Merit Scholarship from 1990 to 1994. During her Junior Year of medical school, she joined the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society, and she graduated from the University of Maryland Medical School Cum Laude in 1994. She completed her ophthalmology residency at Boston University in 1998 and moved to Athens to start her practice. She is the mother to one son and two daughters.
Liza Burnsed | First Year
Email: [email protected]
I graduated from The University of Georgia with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and received a Master’s of Education in Special Education from the University of Kennesaw. I was a severe and profound Special Education Teacher for 6 years, then served as the Special
Education Department Head for Cedar Shoals High School for two years. I am now serving as Transition Specialist for the Clarke County School District.
My passion is in serving individuals with disabilities. My other passions involve traveling, sports, concerts, and being with my friends and family.
Jemelleh Coes (has disability) | First Year
Email: j[email protected]
Jemelleh is the daughter of immigrant parents and a first-generation university graduate. She was born in Brooklyn, New York, and was raised in Decatur, Georgia. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Education with a concentration in Special Education and her Master’s degree in Education with a concentration in Teaching and Learning from Georgia Southern University. She is also a professor at the University of Georgia where she teaches future educators along with future professionals dedicated to disability advocacy.
Shy Cullars (has a disability) | 3 Years Served
Email: [email protected]
Shy Cullars is a third generation farmer, born in Kansas City, Kansas. She grew up raising livestock, fresh fish, and vegetables in aquaponic systems. Ms. Cullars is a graduate of Kansas State University and the proud owner of Cullars Heritage Farm, LLC (CHF).
Agriculture has always been a passion for Ms. Cullars. She has worked in the Agricultural industry in a variety of facets including NRCS Outreach Specialist, Chairwoman of Georgia NWIAA, NCAT Youth Program Director, and she serves as an External Advisory Board member for the University of Kentucky. Ms. Cullars takes pride in educating others in the importance of sustainable agriculture and food justice.
Tabitha Johnson Green | First Year
Email: [email protected]
I am a Registered Nurse and a small business owner. I was the 2018, 2020, & 2022, Democratic Nominee for Georgia’s 10th Congressional District.
I am a graduate of Georgia Southern University, Middle Georgia College, and Ultimate Medical Academy. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also enjoy visiting, and picking fresh fruits and vegetables. from many of Georgia’s U-pick Farms.
Service Hurst | 6 Years Served
Email: [email protected]
Retired from GA Dept of Labor. Undergraduate degree from Kentucky State College
Graduate work at University of Louisville
Volunteer chaplain at Clarke County Sheriff Office
As a Registered Nurse of over 20 years, I care deeply about the welfare and wellbeing of everyone, especially the people of GA-District 10.
Jennifer Maldonado (has a disability) | First Year
Email: [email protected]
Jennifer has a pharmacy technician Associate degree from Universidad Del Este. She is originally from Puerto Rico and has lived in GA for 8 years. Jennifer has never worked with people with disabilities but is looking forward to the opportunity to do so. She enjoys going to the movies and to the mall and loves all animals
Athenia Myrick (has a disability) | Secretary, 4 Years Served
Email: [email protected]
Athenia Myrick is a native of Commerce, Ga. She moved to Athens-Clarke County in 1999. In the year of 2000 she began to work with people with disability. She giving back to the community as well as helping people with needs is her passion. She is married to an Airman of the United States Air force. She graduated from Continental
Academy where she received a high school diploma; she is working on a degree in human services.
Dee Myrick (has a disability) | Chairman, 6 Years Served
Email: [email protected]
Dee received an undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and remains a proud Saluki. He holds a PhD in Business, an MBA, an MAED in Educational Leadership and Administration, an MAED in Technology and Learning, and a MAED in ELearning and Online Teaching. He also holds a BSED in Education, Training, and Development. He has published numerous books, articles, and technical papers.
Jonathan Perry (has a disability) | First Year
Email: j[email protected]
I am a retired pharmacist with over 34 years of direct patient care and administrative experience. My professional background encompasses investigational therapeutics, pharmaco-economics, personnel management, frontline poison control specialization and retail service. I have two years of PhD level studies in Pharmacy Administration concentrating in Theory of Constraints Protocols.
Davada Whitfield | Treasurer, First Year
Email: [email protected]
I am from South Georgia and am a legal analyst at heart. I have two Master’s degrees from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, one in Public Administration (Macro vs. Micro Public Spheres) and one in Criminal Justice. I have two Bachelor’s degrees from the University of Carolina at Pembroke, one in Political Science and one in Psychology. I am serving on the Multiplechoices™ CIL Board because I believe in the mission. I believe that in order to make a difference, we must identify the need, apply knowledge, and implement the best strategy. I am honored to serve.
Meet the Executive Director
Email: [email protected]
I am a graduate of Gardner-Webb University with a degree in Communications, and am former president of the National Federation of the Blind of Georgia (NFBGA). I have a daughter and two grandchildren.
I host a talk show on the Georgia Radio Reading Service and currently serve as Executive Director of Multiplechoices™ CIL.
Our Mission
The mission of our disability advocates at Multiplechoices™ Center for Independent Living is to break down barriers and enhance the quality of life for people living with disabilities—including veterans—empowering them through advocacy, education and training.
Vision Statement
All people living with disabilities have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness through equal access to all aspects of society.
Get the Assistance You Need
If you’re living with a disability, know that there’s always help, resources and opportunities waiting for you at Multiplechoices™ Center for Independent Living. Contact us to learn more.
Contact Us
To learn more, please contact Multiplechoices™ Center for Independent Living today at 706-850-4025.