Leaders in Special Education and Behavioral Health Named to State Rehabilitation Council

ATLANTA, GA — The Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA) is pleased to announce the appointment of two highly respected leaders in education and behavioral health, Jo Ellen Hancock and Dr. Charity Roberts, to the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC). The new members were recently sworn in by Governor Brian P. Kemp. 

Jo Ellen Hancock is a veteran advocate in special education, behavioral health, and family engagement. Since 2005, she has served as the parent mentor for special education in the Cherokee County School District, supporting families and strengthening school collaboration. Hancock holds leadership roles with the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD), including chair of the Statewide Leadership Council, and serves on multiple advisory boards, including NAMI Georgia. A certified peer specialist–parent, she has chaired the Cherokee County Local Interagency Planning Team (LIPT) since 2018, coordinating care for children with complex needs.

Dr. Charity Roberts became the State Director (IDEA) for the Georgia Department of Education in 2025, bringing over 30 years of experience in special education. She holds degrees in special education and educational leadership from Georgia Southern University. Her career spans roles as teacher, district and Georgia Learning Resources System (GLRS) director, and leader in rural education. Dr. Roberts is known for her statewide impact on improving outcomes for students with disabilities.

In welcoming the new members, Chairwoman of the State Rehabilitation Council Juliet Hardeman said, “Jo Ellen and Charity bring an extraordinary depth of knowledge and compassion to the Council. Their proven leadership and deep-rooted commitment to disability advocacy will strengthen our efforts to ensure that all Georgians with disabilities have access to the tools and support they need to thrive in employment and in their communities.”

Chris Wells, GVRA Executive Director, added, “We are excited to welcome leaders of Ms. Hancock’s and Dr. Roberts’ caliber to the Council. Their voices will be instrumental as we continue working together to expand opportunities for individuals with disabilities across the state.”

The Georgia State Rehabilitation Council advises and partners with GVRA to ensure that vocational rehabilitation programs are responsive to the needs of individuals with disabilities. Their addition to the Council reflects a continued commitment to strong leadership and community collaboration in support of Georgians with disabilities.

About the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency 

Established in July 2012, the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA) operates five integrated and interdependent statutory programs that share a primary goal - to serve Georgians with disabilities to empower them to live independent lives.