Embedded Files
HR and Peer Mentor
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stephent@disabilitymidsouth.org
Stephen Tennial serves as both a Human Resources Coordinator and Peer Mentor, where he combines his administrative expertise with a passion for supporting others on their paths to independence and personal growth. With a background in human resources, Stephen is skilled in recruiting, training, and providing support to staff, ensuring a positive and inclusive workplace environment that values diversity and accessibility.
As a Peer Mentor, Stephen brings a wealth of lived experience, empathy, and understanding to his role, offering guidance and encouragement to individuals navigating challenges and developing new life skills. His mentoring approach is centered on listening, empowering, and helping others build confidence in their abilities.
Stephen’s dual roles allow him to make a meaningful impact both within his organization and in the lives of those he mentors. Known for his kindness, patience, and dedication, Stephen is a respected and valued member of his team, committed to fostering a workplace and community where everyone feels supported and empowered.
Access Assistant
Leo Manriquez is an Access Assistant at Disability Connection Midsouth, where he is dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities in achieving greater accessibility and independence. His hands-on approach ensures that each person receives personalized support tailored to their unique needs and goals.
Known for his keen eye for detail and proactive attitude, Leo collaborates closely with Independent Living Specialists, community partners, and consumers to assess accessibility challenges and implement practical solutions. He is passionate about creating inclusive spaces that empower individuals to live as independently as possible.
Leo’s positive, supportive presence and commitment to accessibility make him an essential part of the Disability Connection Midsouth team. He brings a warm, approachable demeanor to his work, consistently going above and beyond to ensure that every individual he assists feels respected, supported, and valued.
Independent Living Specialist
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kendrab@disabilitymidsouth.org
Kendra Brown is an experienced Independent Living Specialist at Disability Connection Midsouth, where she dedicates her time to helping individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence and self-reliance. With a background in social services and advocacy, Kendra brings years of experience working in community-based support roles, providing guidance, resources, and skills training that empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives in their communities.
Kendra is also a mother, a role that has profoundly shaped her empathetic approach and commitment to supporting others. Her experience as a parent has strengthened her ability to connect with others, particularly those balancing personal and family needs with their desire for independence. Known for her compassionate nature, attention to detail, and dedication, Kendra is a trusted advocate and mentor who plays a vital role in helping her clients set and achieve their goals.
Independent Living Specialist
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allisond@disabilitymidsouth.org
Allison Donald is a passionate Independent Living Specialist and community organizer at Disability Connection Midsouth, where she champions the rights and independence of people with disabilities. With a strong background in advocacy and community engagement, Allison works to ensure that individuals have the resources, support, and skills needed to live independently and participate fully in their communities.
Allison’s expertise in independent living includes teaching essential life skills, providing peer support, and connecting consumers to crucial resources that reduce the risk of institutionalization. She is deeply committed to creating inclusive environments and advocating for accessible public spaces, affordable housing, and transportation options that allow individuals with disabilities to thrive in their communities.
Known for her grassroots organizing, Allison collaborates with local leaders, advocates, and community organizations to drive policy change and raise awareness about disability rights. Her work has positively impacted countless lives, fostering a sense of empowerment and self-determination among those she serves. Allison’s dedication to her work and community makes her a respected leader and a steadfast advocate for equality and accessibility throughout the Mid-South region.
Transition Specialist
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Early Smith is a Transition Specialist at Disability Connection Midsouth, where he brings a fresh perspective and dedication to supporting individuals as they transition to independent living. Although new to his role, Early is already making a positive impact by helping individuals navigate the journey from institutional care to community-based living. His work focuses on building tailored plans that support each person’s goals, offering skills training, and connecting them to vital resources that promote independence and self-sufficiency.
Early's approach is rooted in empathy and a strong sense of community, values he brings from his own family life. A devoted husband and father, he is inspired daily by his family to work towards a world that is more inclusive and accessible. Early’s commitment to his new role reflects his dedication to improving lives and empowering those he serves. With a passion for learning and connecting with people, he is quickly becoming a valued member of the Disability Connection Midsouth team.
Outreach Specialist
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Leah Williamson is an Outreach Specialist at Disability Connection Midsouth, where she leverages her extensive experience with the Deaf community and her fluency in American Sign Language (ASL) to build inclusive and accessible connections throughout the region. Known for her commitment to bridging communication gaps, Leah’s outreach efforts focus on ensuring that Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals have equal access to resources, support, and opportunities for independent living.
With a background in community engagement and a deep understanding of Deaf culture, Leah has been a dedicated advocate, working to raise awareness about the unique needs and strengths of the Deaf community. Her ASL proficiency allows her to connect meaningfully with individuals, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for those who rely on sign language.
Leah’s work at Disability Connection Midsouth is defined by her empathy, cultural sensitivity, and dedication to accessibility. She collaborates closely with local organizations, community groups, and families to expand outreach efforts, helping to create a more inclusive community for everyone. Leah’s expertise and passion for advocacy make her an invaluable resource for the Deaf and disability communities alike.
Interim Co-Executive Director
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christinac@disabilitymidsouth.org
Christina Clift is a dedicated consumer advocate known for her unwavering commitment to accessibility and disability rights. With years of experience in both advocacy and direct support, Christina has worked tirelessly to empower individuals with disabilities, focusing on creating inclusive communities and policies that protect and advance their rights. Currently she is the Outreach and Development Manager.
Throughout her career, Christina has collaborated with organizations, policymakers, and grassroots advocates to address systemic barriers, advocating for equal access to public spaces, transportation, and community services. Her work is grounded in a belief that independence and self-determination are fundamental rights for all individuals.
As a prominent voice in the disability community, Christina combines her expertise with a personal dedication to raising awareness and educating the public. She is passionate about fostering collaboration and leading initiatives that support accessible infrastructure, inclusive legislation, and community-based resources. Christina’s advocacy is not only about achieving policy change but also about empowering individuals to advocate for themselves and embrace their independence fully.
Interim Co-Executive Director
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Tim Wheat is a well-known disability rights activist and photographer whose work spans over two decades, capturing the stories and resilience of the disability community across the United States. Known for his involvement with ADAPT, a prominent disability rights organization, Wheat documents the journey toward accessibility and independence, often spotlighting pivotal protests and policy changes that impact people with disabilities. His photojournalism seeks to amplify marginalized voices and brings visibility to the fight for disability rights, capturing powerful moments of both advocacy and community unity.
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