HDC Archive of Employee of the Month/Employee Spotlight Bios
Donna Hammons
The Human Development Center does some of its most effective work when talented people indigenous to their communities step forward and join the team we know as HDC. Donna Hammons is a well-respected educator in north Louisiana. Originally, from the Baton Rouge area, Donna moved to Ruston, La. in 1992 to be closer to her husband’s origins. Donna says, “it was a culture shock to say the least but I really do enjoy the tall pine trees and (for the most part) slower pace. And, I really do not miss getting to see any of Louisiana since my family is scattered across the state.” When asked about what she is grateful for, Donna replied, “Family, Immediate and extended “they often drive me crazy but I love them!” (and my daughters are 24 and 26 but they never really leave the nest…do they??); Friendship…it is a vital piece of who I am and helps me to find balance; and Vacation! (I’m a true believer that everyone needs to unplug and find their place of piece for a while.)
In 2009, Donna began work as a facilitator with the Louisiana Autism Spectrum and Related Disabilities (LASARD) Project. Donna, strategically located in Ruston, Louisiana, provides opportunities for HDC to reach the northern part of the state. Donna has collaborated with LASARD partner school districts in Lincoln, Vernon, Natchitoches, DeSoto, Ouachita, and Webster Parishes. A dynamic presenter, Donna has presented numerous webinars and workshops on topics related to educating students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related disabilities. She is also well-regarded as a great collaborator with educators and family members. Donna has worked with students with disabilities and their families since 1988.
Prior to joining HDC and LASARD, Donna served as a K-5th grade special educator, behavioral consultant, and ASD facilitator within Lincoln Parish. Prior to and since her employment as a LASARD facilitator, Donna has actively pursued professional development opportunities to acquire and strengthen her knowledge and implementation of instructional practices for students with ASD and related disabilities. Donna also participates in community outreach opportunities to share effective strategies for students with school administrators, educators, and families. Donna has a BA in Sociology from Louisiana College and, additionally, holds certification as a highly qualified K-12 special education teacher. Her colleagues appreciate the insightful perspectives Donna brings to the conversation – any conversation! She is not afraid to ask questions and dig deeper. In her spare time, Donna enjoys spending time with her family and friends, especially at the beach.
John Johnson, Ph.D.
Dr. John Johnson came to HDC in July of last year by way of San Diego and South Dakota, in part, to be closer to two of his brothers who live in the area and to address his intense dislike for snow and cold. Word is he is now rethinking his appreciation of heat and humidity… John (sometimes known as Dr. J) came with his traveling companion, a service dog, Rowan who is an avid ball player, social magnet, and swimmer. He also works as John’s social coordinator. Rowan’s all-time favorite is trips to NOLA CityBark Park where he hangs out with other dogs and sprawls in the pool with his tennis ball. John has traveled all over the country and the world. He has been to Korea, India, Mexico, Honduras, Sweden, China, Canada and Japan. He has lived in California, Illinois, Ohio, Massachusetts and Oregon. For fun, when John is not playing with Rowan, he is heavily involved in the Martial Arts. He is a certified 7th degree black belt and master instructor of Soo Bahk Do (Korean martial art from which many Tae Kwon Do styles originated). He is also ranked in other martial arts including Gracie Jiu Jitsu. He likes to camp although has taken to using a camper to get outdoors especially in parks that are close to a body of water. He is a news junkie addicted to NPR, CNN, MSNBC, and any all manner of news. John loves good conversation and likes hanging out. Its rumored that he also likes to hang out in local pubs (as long as they’re accessible) to drink a few (especially single malt scotch), listen to music, and attract people who like Rowan. Bottom line is John is really Rowan’s chauffer, caregiver and provider. HDC is a richer and better organization thanks to the many attributes and contributions John brings to us.
Raynell Washington
Raynell is HDC’s newest staff member. She recently began working on our Early Head Start Child Care Partnership project as an Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment and Attendance (ERSEA) Specialist. Raynell earned her BA in Sociology from Southeastern Louisiana University and her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Tulane University and is currently working towards her LMSW licensure, which she hopes to accomplish by the end of the year. Outside of work, Raynell enjoys spending time with her loved ones, especially her niece, and dining out at new restaurants. She loves listening to live music, especially soulful R&B and hopes to travel the world and learn about different cultural experiences. Raynell can be reached at rwas11@lsuhsc.edu.
Stuart Simon
Stuart, whose father is a photographer, was born in St. Louis but grew up in New Orleans. Stuart holds a BS in Music from Millsaps College from 2007, and two Master’s Degrees, both from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and both from 2012. One is in Music History, and the other is in Library and Information Science. After that, Stuart returned to New Orleans and pursued a post-baccalaureate certificate in applied computing with an emphasis on Integrated Application Development, receiving it in May 2016. Stuart began working at HDC in February, 2016. His duties are varied and include: graphics specialist, webmaster, database specialist, and photographer. Outside of work, he enjoys music, New Orleans cultural life, and singing in the choir at Touro Synagogue. Stuart can be reached at ssimo3@lsuhsc.edu or you can visit him in his office in the Human Development Center building in room 463.