Connect with UGA Student Affairs Faculty and Staff
114 Clark Howell Hall
Athens, GA, 30602
706.542.8719 | drc@uga.edu
Assistant Dean of Students for Student Care and Outreach
Interim Director of the Disability Resource Center
Senior Coordinator, Disability Services
Assistive Technology Lab Technician
Senior Coordinator, Disability Services
Senior Coordinator, Disability Services
Senior Coordinator, Accommodated Testing & Disability Services
Senior Assistant Director, Disability Services
Senior Coordinator, Disability Services & Intake
Assistive Technology Lab Technician
Captioning Production Assistant
Assistant Director, Disability Services
Coordinator Assistant, Disability Services
Senior Coordinator, Disability Services
Alternative Text Production Coordinator
Senior Proctor, Accommodated Testing
Captioning Production Coordinator
Senior Coordinator, Disability Services
Senior Coordinator, Architectural Access & Disability Services
Senior Coordinator, Interpreting & Captioning Services
Administrative Manager
Information Technology Manager
Main Desk Accommodations Assistant
Administrative Associate
Senior Coordinator, Disability Services
C-Print & Captioning Specialist
Senior Coordinator, Disability Services
Accommodated Testing Specialist
Sign Language Interpreter
Coordinator Assistant, Disability Services
Main Desk Administrative Assistant
C-Print & Captioning Specialist
Taylor Ashe joined the DRC staff in May of 2017 as a C-Print (real-time note taking) and Captioning Specialist. Taylor provides C-Print Captioning to students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in their daily classes. He also assists the DRC’s Alternative Media Center with transcription and closed captioning services. Prior to moving to Athens, Taylor received his Bachelor of Arts in English, with an emphasis in Secondary Education. Taylor has taught English/Language Arts curriculum both in alternative and traditional school systems in his home state of Idaho, as well as Georgia.
Ashley Whitten joined the DRC staff as the front desk administrative assistant in February of 2017. As the first point of contact for students and visitors, Ashley is responsible for fielding inquiries about the DRC, scheduling meetings between students and coordinators, and fostering a welcoming atmosphere. Ashley recently graduated from the University of North Georgia-Dahlonega, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Criminal Justice.
Catherine Ashe joined the DRC staff in June of 2016 as a C-Print (real-time note taking) and Captioning Specialist, and she was promoted to Senior Coordinator in January 2017. She received her Master's in Education from the University of Idaho in Rehabilitation Counseling and Human Services and is a certified rehabilitation counselor. Prior to moving to Athens, Catherine worked for the state of Idaho as a vocational rehabilitation counselor.
Samra Ward joined the Disability Resource Center (DRC) staff in June 2016 and works with a varied caseload of students to ensure their academic success. Prior to joining the DRC, Samra obtained an undergraduate degree in psychology and French from the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College at The University of Mississippi, as well as a Master of Arts degree in Higher Education/Student Personnel. While pursuing graduate studies at Ole Miss, Samra worked in their disability services and student housing offices and presented on disability-related issues at the regional and international levels. Outside of the university, Samra is involved with the American College Personnel Association’s Coalition for (Dis)Ability.
Brad Erbesfield joined the DRC’s staff as an Education Program Specialist in 2015. He became a Coordinator Assistant in July 2016 and was promoted to Senior Coordinator in December 2016. Before joining the DRC, Brad earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Child & Family Development with a certificate in Personal and Organizational Leadership and a Master of Art degree in Nonprofit Organizations from the University of Georgia.
Tori Whitaker joined the DRC's staff in 2014 as a Senior Proctor in the Accommodated Testing Office. She was promoted to Disability Resource Assistant in 2015 and to Accommodated Testing Specialist in 2016. In this role, Tori administers approved testing services for students with disabilities, communicates with faculty regarding testing, and supervises the Accommodated Testing Office’s student and clerical workers. Before joining the DRC's staff, Tori earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of Georgia in 2014.
Erin Benson joined the DRC's staff as a Senior Coordinator in 2015 and transitioned to her role as Senior Assistant Director in December 2016. She has two degrees from the University of Georgia, a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and a Master of Public Administration and Policy. Erin spent most of her undergraduate years at UGA as a student disc jockey for the WUOG 90.5 radio station. Her previous work experience consists of over nine years in Student Affairs at the University of North Georgia Oconee Campus, including seven years working directly with students with disabilities.
Samantha Adair joined the DRC’s staff as a Coordinator in 2015 and manages a varied caseload of students. Before joining the DRC, she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Georgia. She also holds a Master of Arts degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Georgia. Samantha previously worked at UGA in many departments including the School Psychology Department and the Athletic Department. Prior to her career at UGA, she provided interventions for elementary school students with learning disabilities and taught an undergraduate educational psychology course.
Christine Carpenter joined the DRC’s staff as an Alternative Text Production Assistant in 2013. In 2015, she began a new role as a Captioning Assistant and C-Print Transcriptionist. Christine provides students with captions for media viewed in the classroom as well as real-time captioning for class lectures and discussions. Before joining the DRC, Christine studied Theatre at the University of North Texas and American History at UGA.
Carrie Smith serves as the Assistant Dean of Students for Student Care & Outreach, providing individualized support and assistance to students experiencing hardship circumstances. She oversees general case management within Student Care & Outreach. Additionally, Carrie provides trainings and informational sessions to campus and community partners about working with students of concern and the role of Student Care & Outreach. Carrie also serves as a member of the university’s Behavioral Assessment and Response Council (BARC).
Carrie received a B.B.A. in Marketing from Mississippi State University, and a M.Ed. in Counselor Education from the University of Mississippi. She worked in corporate public relations at Fleishman-Hillard before returning to the field of education to serve as the Assistant Director of Admissions at The Browning School. Prior to coming to UGA, Carrie worked with graduate admissions, scholarship programming, and athletics at the University of Mississippi. She served as the Student Affairs Case Manager before this position. Carrie is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Counseling & Student Personnel Services at UGA
Pam Wofford joined the DRC’s staff as a Coordinator Assistant in 2013. Pam assists the Coordinator of Architectural Access and Disability Services with managing architectural accessibility and a diverse caseload. She also serves as the On Call Coordinator when needed. Before joining the DRC, Pam earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science from UGA. Prior to her career at UGA, Pam worked as a professional dog trainer.
Tammie Martin joined the DRC’s staff as a Main Desk Accommodations Assistant in 2014. Tammie serves as the DRC’s initial point of contact. She communicates with students, parents, professors, and members of the community via telephone and in person whenever they contact the DRC. She also assists the DRC’s staff with maintaining student records. Before joining the DRC, Tammie worked in UGA’s Office of Student Financial Aid. Prior to her career at UGA, Tammie worked 10 years for the Clarke County School District.
Annie Gibson joined the DRC’s staff as an Alternative Text Production Assistant in 2009. She was promoted to Senior Proctor in the Accommodated Testing Office in 2013. In her current position, Annie administers approved testing services for students with disabilities and communicates with faculty regarding testing. Annie is a certified yoga instructor and facilitates the DRC’s Quiet Mind Program. Through this program, Annie teaches relaxation techniques and exercises that promote emotional and physical wellbeing. Before joining the DRC, Annie earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Therapy from UGA.
Ashley Frederick joined the DRC’s staff as an Alternative Text Production Assistant in 2014. She was promoted to Disability Resource Assistant in 2015 and to Alternative Text Production Coordinator in 2016. Ashley oversees the alternative text production at the DRC and works with publishers, agencies, and non-profit organizations to obtain required text in accessible formats for students who have print-related disabilities. Before joining the DRC, Ashley earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work with a minor in Psychology from the University of Central Florida.
Katie Wilson joined the DRC’s staff as a Sign Language Interpreter in 2011. Katie works with students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in a variety of situations including the classroom. She has experience interpreting in K-12 schools and postsecondary settings. Before joining the DRC, Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Alabama and an Associate’s degree in Sign Language Interpreting from Front Range Community College. She also holds a National Interpreter Certification and an Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment Certification.
Trisha Tonge Barefield joined the DRC’s staff as an Alternative Media Production Assistant in 2012. She was promoted to Accommodated Testing Coordinator in 2013. Trisha’s responsibilities include facilitating a low-distraction testing environment for students, collaborating with professors, and guiding the daily activities of the Accommodated Testing Office staff. She also serves as a Coordinator in the DRC and manages a caseload of students. Before joining the DRC, Trisha earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education with an emphasis in English and History from Central Michigan University. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree from UGA’s Institute of Higher Education.
Roman Surveyor joined the DRC’s staff as an Assistive Technology Lab Technician in 2010. He was promoted to his current position as a C-Print (real-time notetaking) and Captioning Specialist. Roman provides C-Print Captioning to students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in their daily classes. He also assists the DRC’s Alternative Media Center with transcription and closed captioning services.
Molli Goggin joined the DRC’s staff as a Coordinator Assistant in 2012. She was promoted to her current position as a Senior Coordinator in 2013. Molli manages a caseload of students and coordinates leadership programs within the DRC. Specifically, Molli oversees the DRC’s Speakers Bureau, Transition Alliance, and annual scholarship reception. Before joining the DRC, Molli earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Family and Consumer Sciences with a Business concentration from Samford University. Prior to her career at UGA, Molli worked as a project coordinator in higher education and as a substitute teacher.
Eileen Moore joined the DRC’s staff as an Administrative Assistant in 2001. Currently, Eileen serves as an Administrative Associate and oversees the hiring process and payroll for all part-time staff. She also coordinates notetaker sign-up and payment, handles purchasing and payment processing, assists with monitoring departmental accounts, and prepares budget reports. Additionally, Eileen processes deposits and payments, including scholarships, through the DRC’s Foundation accounts.
Austin Kovarik joined the DRC’s staff as a Support Technician for the Assistive Technology Lab in 2008. He quickly transitioned to an IT Leadership position in University Testing Services. Austin then rejoined the DRC as Information Technology Manager in 2011. In his current position, Austin oversees all technology in the DRC including network connectivity, data security, staff workstations, student loaner equipment, and the Assistive Technology Lab and its staff. He has in-depth experience with information systems. Prior to his career at UGA, Austin worked for Turner Broadcasting in Atlanta, one of the largest media companies in the world.
Sarah Kesler joined the DRC’s staff as the Assistant to the Director in 2008. Currently, Sarah serves as the Administrative Manager for the DRC and University Testing Services. She assists the Director of the DRC with the administration of programs and services, manages various budgets within the DRC and UTS, and functions as the DRC’s Office Manager. Before joining the DRC, Sarah earned an Associate’s degree in Accounting from Athens Technical College and worked in UGA’s Accounts Payable Department. Prior to her career at UGA, Sarah worked in private accounting.
Kevin Karneboge joined the DRC’s staff as a Sign Language Interpreter in 1994 and was later promoted to his current position of Senior Coordinator of Interpreter Services. Kevin supervises sign language interpreting and captioning for the classroom including instructional media. He interprets in secondary and post-secondary educational settings. He often interprets in classrooms and at campus events. Kevin is recognized as a state-level interpreter and transliterator by the Georgia Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.
Leigh Jagor joined the DRC’s staff as an Assistive Technology Lab Assistant in 1996. She was promoted to Assistant to the Assistant Director of the DRC, promoted again to a Coordinator, and promoted once more to her current position as Coordinator of Architectural Access. Leigh ensures architectural accessibility across campus, facilitating the reassigning of classroom locations and furniture placement for students who have mobility impairments. She specializes in working with students who have visual impairments or brain injuries. Before joining the DRC, Leigh earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Horticulture from UGA.
Amanda Hales joined the DRC’s staff as an Administrative Assistant in 2008. She was promoted to a Coordinator in 2014. Currently, Amanda manages a caseload of students and serves as the DRC Scholarship Liaison. As the DRC Scholarship Liaison, Amanda helps plan the annual scholarship reception, disseminates information about DRC scholarships, and assists students with applying for the DRC’s scholarships.
Marianne Gouge joined the DRC’s staff as a Reader and an Alternative Text Production Assistant in 2008. She was promoted to Lead Captionist at the DRC in 2013. Marianne works to ensure that all students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing have equal access to media used across campus. Before joining the DRC, Marianne earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Consumer Journalism from UGA and a Master of Science degree in Information and Library Science from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Prior to her career at UGA, Marianne worked as a children’s librarian in Hawaii.
Tim Carr joined the DRC’s staff as a Coordinator Assistant in 2008. He was promoted to Accommodated Testing Coordinator in 2010 and promoted again in 2014 to Assistant Director of the DRC. In his role as the Assistant Director, Tim supervises four Coordinators and manages a caseload of students. He also oversees the student intake process and organizes the outreach and education efforts of the DRC. Before joining the DRC, Tim earned a Bachelor of Art degree in Art History from Southern Illinois University. He then earned a Master of Education degree in Human Resource and Organizational Development from UGA. Currently, Tim is pursuing a Ph.D. in Organizational Development at UGA. Prior to his career at UGA, Tim worked as a case manager for Georgia Options where he acquired significant knowledge about developmental disabilities.
Peter Bertot, Jr. joined the DRC’s staff as a Coordinator in 2004 and was promoted to a Senior Coordinator in 2015. Peter has a varied caseload and serves as the Coordinator of Intake. He has more than 25 years of experience working with college students who have learning disabilities. One of his areas of expertise is psychological distress patterns of students with LD and ADHD. He also has extensive experience with LD documentation and evaluations. Before joining the DRC, Peter earned many degrees including a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Communication, a Master’s degree in Community Counseling, a Master’s degree in Church Administration, a Ph.D. in Church Administration, and a Ph.D. in Special Education.
Carolyn Arnold joined the DRC’s staff as a Coordinator in 2000 and was promoted to a Senior Coordinator in 2013. Carolyn specializes in working with students diagnosed with ADHD, LD, psychological disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Before joining the DRC, Carolyn earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work from UGA. She is also a Licensed Master Social Worker.
