Meet the Staff
AMANDA BARNES
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Contact Me
203-272-5607, ext. 1107
Amanda joins the Abilities Without Boundaries team with 10 years of experience in Business Management & Hospitality. She has worked with numerous nonprofits including elementary schools, churches and community centers, where she has become a pillar within the Connecticut nonprofit community. Amanda has been with AWB since 2016 and has been dedicated to her role in administration, problem solving, team building and the overall mission of AWB. During 2020 Amanda took a role with the State of Connecticut as an Investigator for DDS. She rejoined AWB in 2021 as Director of Operations and Human Resources, then was named Executive Director in 2022. Amanda has great love and passion to serve the individuals in our care.
SUZANNE KISTNER
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Contact Me
203-272-5607, ext. 1105
Suzanne has been in the Human Services field for more than 15 years with diverse experience providing services to individuals with intellectual disabilities. She began her employment with AWB in 2018 as a program instructor. She was subsequently promoted to Program Manager and thence to her current position. As Case Manager for our group supported individuals, she works with plans implemented by DDS and creates career opportunities and community involvement. She works with our individuals to achieve personal growth and Individual Program goals according to the level of need. Suzanne has worked diligently creating a successful M.U.S.I.C program at AWB. As a form of therapy, music lessons and participations help our individuals communicate and participate. Suzanne has an Associate’s degree in business and medical administration. Suzanne is dedicated to the mission of AWB and shows extreme passion in her role.
ERIKA GREGORY
CAREER SERVICES COORDINATOR
Contact Me
203-272-5607, ext. 1107
Erika joins Abilities Without Boundaries with the strong presentation and networking skills required to find new job opportunities for our individuals. Her goal is to help our individuals participate in the local community. She wants them to become more independent by earning their own paychecks. Prior to joining AWB, Erika worked at Cooperative Educational Services, a special education school. She was an Educational Instructor, working one-on-one with high school students. She continues to volunteer with Special Olympics. Erika has two brothers with disabilities and so brings a deep, personal understanding and enthusiasm to her work. Erika holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Special Education, both from Western Connecticut State University.
TASHIRA FERGUSON
BEHAVIORIST
Contact Me Tashira joins the Abilities Without Boundaries team with more than 17 years of experience in Human Services leadership. She has extensive experience in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and managing non-profit organizations across the state of Connecticut. She is passionate about serving the DDS population and advocating for individuals with disabilities. Tashira specializes in behavior supports management and Therap LLC implementation. Tashira has 9 years in leadership and quality assurance experience. She has her bachelor’s degree in Social Science and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree.