Meet the Staff

Alice Cellino, AUD, CCC-A

Executive Director

Dr. Alice Cellino received an undergraduate degree in business administration from Columbus State University and a clinical doctorate in audiology at Auburn University. After externships with the United States Army at Ft. Benning and at Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat of Atlanta, Dr. Cellino joined the staff of Columbus Speech & Hearing Center. In 2006 at Auburn University, she helped pioneer a way to obtain normative data on oto-acoustic emissions in puppies. This is very important in the training of police dogs, search and rescue dogs, protection and service dogs. The findings were published by the American Academy of Veterinary Research. She is trained and certified in Vestibular Evaluation and Treatment. She is also a pediatric diagnostic specialist and Director of Audiology for The Medical Center NICU. Dr.Cellino is a clinical supervisor for Auburn University Doctoral students as well as past president of the Georgia Academy of Audiology and often lectures at the request of various organizations, such as retirement homes or parent groups. She has held certification in the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association for the Clinical Practice of Audiology since 2008.

Away from work, Dr. Cellino and her husband, Rich, stay busy as volunteers for civic groups here in Columbus. She is an active member of the Rotary of Columbus. Rich is the chair of the Board of Directors for Columbus Young Life, and both have been Young Life leaders for many years. Dr. Cellino spends most weekends working on her father's fleet of tractors, bulldozers, and ATVs. She will most likely be found elbow-deep in grease or diesel fuel in a hay-field when not at the office. The Cellinos have two beautiful sons and their perfect day is just being together!

Susie Ford, PHD, CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist & Emeritus Director

Dr. Ford is the founder and President of Columbus Speech & Hearing Center and has practiced professionally since 1965. After earning a Ph.D. in Speech and Hearing Science from the University of Tennessee and teaching at Auburn University for several years, she entered private practice in Columbus, Georgia. She is a past treasurer and president of the Georgia Speech and Hearing Association and past member and chair of the Georgia Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, issued by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Her specialized training includes the Lindamood-Bell Reading Program, Orton Gillingham Reading Program, Electrical Stimulation for Dysphagia Patients, Speech Easy Device for Treatment of Fluency Disorders, Vocal Cord Dysfunction, Esophageal Speech - Mayo Clinic, Compton Accent Reduction Training, Melodic Intonation Training for Stroke Patients, and Interactive Metronome Certification.

Dr. Ford is active in community projects, as the co-founder of the Achievement Academy, a local private school for children with learning disabilities. The school operated in Columbus for more than 20 years. She is a past board member of the House of Mercy and the United Way. Outside of work, she particularly enjoys time with her two grandsons, Ford and Sam. She married her best friend, Chuck, in 1967- both raised in Edison, Georgia. He is a former farmer, industrial engineer, and now practicing corporate and tax attorney. They have one daughter, Dr. Alice Cellino (husband Rich), who heads the center's Audiology Department. Dr. Ford loves spending time on the family farm, bush hogging, reading and attending "Donkey Pennings" near her hometown (ask her about it!). The two families also enjoy and share a beloved German Shepherd named Molley.

April McFarland, MCD, CCC-SLP

Director of Speech-Language Pathology

April McFarland was raised in Tucson, Arizona. She relocated to the Columbus Area over 25 years ago after she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, from Dartmouth College. She then earned a Master's degree in Speech Communication from Auburn University. April is a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and is certified in Speech-Language Pathology. She holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence through Georgia Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology. She has also received training in the Orton Gillingham Reading Program, Linda Mood-Bell Reading Program and LSVT voice program. She has been with Columbus Speech & Hearing Center since 1996. When she is away from the office, she enjoys spending time with family.  She has one son, Ian, who is the light of her life! They like to stay busy by spending time with friends and stealing away to the beach whenever possible.  Ian is a thriving homeschooler who keeps April busy as they learn together.

Cindy Falk, MCD, CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

A graduate of Auburn University, Cindy brings years of experience to our team. She has served at Columbus Speech & Hearing Center for over 10 years. She is provisionally certified as an Early Intervention Specialist and has spent her entire career working with pediatric patients with a special interest in Autism in the toddler population. Cindy is committed to staying on the cutting-edge of the latest advancements in the field of speech and language pathology and maintains her membership in the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. When not working, Cindy enjoys spending time with daughter, Chelsea, who recently graduated college. Her hobbies include reading and fishing but her passion is helping families of children with special needs. 

Rita O'Bryan, MCD, CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Rita has been practicing Speech-Language Pathology since 1991. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Alabama and her Master's in Communications Disorders degree from Columbus State University. Rita is married with two children. She spends her free time playing tennis, reading and riding bikes.

Rebecca H. Sigman, MED, CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Rebecca received her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders and her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Georgia. After graduate school, she married and moved to Richmond, Virginia, where she worked with adults in rehabilitation centers and nursing homes. After five years, she and her husband moved back to Columbus where they were both born and raised. They started a family, so Rebecca took time off from work until her girls were in nursery school. She then began working with children at Columbus Speech & Hearing Center for two years until her own children began demanding more time from her. Rebecca returned to CSHC in 2013 and began working with both adults and children. When Rebecca isn't busy with her two daughters, she loves to take exercise classes, travel, and read.

Jessica Argue, MA, CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Jessica earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication at Auburn University at Montgomery. She obtained her Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology at Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama. Jessica completed an internship at Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital in Newnan, Georgia and an internship at Columbus Speech and Hearing Center. She fell in love with the environment and staff at CSHC and decided to    begin her clinical fellowship with us. 
Jessica enjoys spending time with her son Griffin and her dog Avery in her spare time. She also loves to read, shop and go for nature walks.

Jessica Lidvall, MA, CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Jessica Lidvall earned her Bachelor's degree from Auburn University at Montgomery in 2016 and her Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Faulkner University in 2020. She is licensed by the Georgia State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. Jessica loves spending time with her family, including her husband, Ned, and their daughters Felicity and Peyton. She enjoys time at the lake or beach, watching Auburn football and Braves baseball as well as taking care of her two big fur babies, Gotti and Rollo.

Anna-Maria Barnes, MED, CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Anna-Maria received both her Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology and her Master's degree in Speech Pathology from the University of West Georgia. Anna-Maria has received experience working with a variety of ages and disorders including Autism, Aphasia, voice disorders, and Parkinson's Disease. She has received specialized training in Interactive Metronome Therapy and Lee Silverman Voice Treatment. In 2018, she presented at the national ASHA convention on her research titled "Culture Specific Language Input: Maternal use of Multimodal Communication in Ecuador" after studying abroad to provide speech therapy services and conducting research in Quito, Ecuador. In her spare time, Anna-Maria enjoys running, hiking, and all things outdoors with her husband and their 2 dogs.

Haley P. Benn, MCD, CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Haley received her Bachelor of Science in Education degree from the University of West Georgia where she graduated from the Honor's College.  She attended Auburn University for graduate school where she received her Master's degree in Communication Disorders. Currently, she is certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.  While attending Auburn, Haley completed internships at a skilled nursing facility and at a private therapy center called McKenna Farms Therapy Services.  She then went on to start her first job at McKenna Farms, where she learned a skilled therapeutic technique known as Hippotherapy, which is used in conjunction with speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. This unique and dynamic therapy method is beneficial for all ages.  Hippotherapy allows the patient to ride a horse while participating in therapy, which is highly motivating and beneficial for strengthening core muscles that are pivotal for speech production. Haley is a Columbus native who recently moved back to Columbus from Marietta, GA in the fall of 2020 to be closer to family.  She married her high school sweetheart right after graduating from Auburn in May of 2018.  In her spare time, Haley enjoys maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle, exercising, spending time at the beach, lake, and mountains with her husband and family. 

Whitney J. Ligon, MS, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathology

Whitney received her Bachelor of Science in Education degree from the University of West Georgia in Carrollton, Ga. Following graduation, Whitney was fortunate to work as an SLP-A for 3 years at a local school system before entering graduate school. She attended Faulkner University in Montgomery, Al and obtained her Masters in Science in Speech-Language Pathology. Whitney completed her thesis on Communicative Reading Strategies in Language Intervention and completed her internships at the following locations: Troup County school system in Lagrange, Ga and R&R Rehabilitation in Columbus, Ga. She is currently completing her clinical fellowship with Columbus Speech & Hearing Center. Whitney enjoys singing, playing the piano, baking, and spending time with family and friends.

Alyssa C. Romero, MS, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathology

Alyssa earned her Master of Science in Speech-Pathology and Audiology from Western Illinois University and her Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Science from The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Throughout her graduate program, she gained experience in the school system, outpatient pediatric centers, and online teletherapy. She is currently working to complete her clinical fellowship. Alyssa recently relocated from Chicago to Columbus. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, traveling, and reading.

Nicole Cooper, MA, CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Nicole is originally from the urban area of Jersey City, New Jersey and moved to Phenix City in 2020 when her husband became stationed at Fort Benning.   Nicole has been in practice since May of 2018, after her concluding her graduate degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Kean University, in New Jersey. She went on to receive her Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities (TSSLD) to work with students in New York City schools. During her time working in New York City, Nicole worked with a range of students including Spanish-bilingual preschoolers, and students ages 2-22 with specialized needs and medically fragile students in specialized schools in Brooklyn, Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island.  She also worked with students in a private practice setting prior to relocating. Since moving, Nicole has worked for Muscogee County School District and serviced multiple schools as a Speech Language Pathologist, has supervised SLP-aides, and completed ASHA's requirements to become a SLP supervisor. Nicole maintains Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) by keeping up to date w with current research and continuing education yearly.

In her free lime, Nicole volunteers with Joyrides Rescue. Handling their social media accounts, fostering animals, and recruiting new volunteers. During the height of the Covld-19 pandemic, Nicole fostered 17 cats and dogs in 10 months. She also enjoys spending time with her rescue dog Nacho, and her foster-fail cat, Hoot, as well as spending time with her Infant daughter and husband.

Nicole is excited to join the team at CSHC.

Ashley B. Ahrens, MS, CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Ashley is a Speech Language Pathologist from Northwestern Pennsylvania. She earned her Master's degree from Clarion University of Pennsylvania and has worked primarily with Early Intervention aged children and their families. Ashley also has extensive experience working with non-verbal children who require augmentative and alternative communication. Ashley has always been passionate about community leadership, especially advocating for children with special needs and their families. In her spare time, Ashley's commitment to her community's youth is continued. She partakes in several community outreach programs which target improving the lives of young people.

Emma Decarlo Mudge, MS, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathology

Emma received both her Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders and her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Auburn University. She gained a broad array of experiences at her internships which included Easterseals Central Alabama in Montgomery, AL; ALL for Children in Auburn, AL; and the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind in Talladega, AL. Emma completed her thesis entitled Family-Centered Practice Knowledge and Use Amongst Speech-Language Pathologists: A National Survey which investigated SLPs use and training in family-centered practice principles. This research is currently being prepared for publication. Emma recently moved to Columbus from Birmingham, AL to complete her clinical fellowship at the Columbus Speech and Hearing Center. In her free time, she enjoys playing with her dog Rex, running, and spending time outside.

Heather Peterson, MS, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathology

Heather received both her Bachelor's in Communication Disorders, Minor in Counseling and her Master's in Speech-Language Pathology at Auburn University. While in graduate school, Heather gained experience working with Early Intervention and school-aged children with a variety of disorders, including Autism and dyslexia. Heather completed externships at Auburn City Schools in Auburn, AL; Auburn Speech and Language Services in Lee County, AL; and Columbus Speech and Hearing Center. She is currently working to complete her clinical fellowship. In her free time, Heather enjoys traveling, hiking, reading, and spending time with her family.

Katherine T. O'Connor, MS, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathology

Katherine obtained her Bachelors in Communicative Disorders and Masters of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Alabama. She has extensive experience working with adults with Dysphagia, Voice, Language, and Cognitive disorders across a variety of different settings. Originally from Alabama, Katherine and her husband, Kerry, relocated to Columbus in 2024. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors, boating, traveling and reading.

Kayla Hadden, MCD, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathology

Kayla received both her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2021, and Master of Education in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2022 from Valdosta State University. She completed her externship at Columbus Speech and Hearing Center and her internship at Gwinnett County Schools in Buford, GA. She fell in love with the CSHC environment and decided to come back to complete her clinical fellowship which she is working toward now. She conducted research as part of her graduate coursework into the relationship between sound symbol correspondence and detecting dyslexia/reading difficulties in children. She recently moved to Columbus from Tallahassee, FL. In her free time she enjoys hiking, reading, and trying local coffee shops when she travels.

Hannah J. Knight, MED, CCC-SLP

Hannah graduated from Valdosta State University in 2018 with her Bachelor of Science and in 2019 with her Master of Education in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Hannah is a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence through the Georgia Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology. Before moving to Columbus in June 2023, Hannah served as a speech language pathologist for Houston County Schools and an outpatient pediatric clinic in Warner Robins. Having speech therapy herself in elementary school, Hannah has always been passoniate about speech therapy. Hannah has gained experience evaluating and treating clients ages 1-21 with articulation, language, fluency, and phonological disorders. She has specialized in AAC, gestalt language processing/natural language acquisition, and apraxia of speech. Hannah has experience working with clients with autism, down syndrome, CP, TBI, and intellectual disorders. In her free time, Hannah enjoys spending time with her family and her cat Pip, working out, singing, and decorating.

Kristen Ouzts, MED, CCC, SLP

Kristen was born and raised in Troup County. She received her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders and her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of West Georgia, graduated in 2023. Kristen interned at Troup County Schools and RehabWorks Opelika and has gained experience in working in the school system and in outpatient pediatric centers. She is currently working towards completed her Clinical Fellowship at Columbus Speech and Hearing. She enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and playing with her pets.

Kyle Barkley, MA, CFY-SLP

Kyle received his Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders at Murray State University in Murray, KY and his Master's of Arts in Speech Language Pathology from Faulkner University in Montgomery, AL. He completed clinical externships at Columbus Speech and Hearing Center, Auburn/East Alabama Speech and Language Services, and St. Francis-Emory Healthcare. While in graduate school, he gained experience working with early intervention and school-aged children with a variety of articulation and language disorders, children with autism, and dyslexia. He also gained experience working with adults with dysphagia, aphasia, dysarthria, and cognitive impairments. In his free time, he enjoys video games, reading, and spending time with his wife, Lindsey, their two dogs Ruby and Zeus, and two cats Apollo and Margo.

Kelsey Gallagher, MED, CFY-SLP

Kelsey received her Bachelor of Science in Education with a major of Speech Pathology and her Master of Education in Speech Pathology from the University of West Georgia. She has completed clinical externships at Columbus Speech and Hearing Center and through Muscogee County School District. Kelsey has received experience during internships with various diagnoses and disorders with early intervention and school-aged children, including articulation, and language disorders, gestalt language learners, AAC, autism, and cognitive impairments. During her free time, she enjoys video games, thrifting, and spending time with her family.

Madelyn (Madee) Jones, MS, CFY-SLP

Madee earned her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Illinois State University and her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a minor in Children Studies from Illinois State University. Throughout her graduate program, she gained experience in the school system, skilled nursing facilities, early intervention home health, as well as outpatient pediatric and adult centers. In her free time she enjoys reading, shopping and traveling.

Tiffany Winchester Windham, MS, CCC-SLP

Tiffany received her undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education from Columbus State University and her Master's in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Emerson College. After getting married, she moved to Macon, GA, where she completed her Clinical Fellowship. After finishing her fellowship, she and her husband moved back to their hometown of Columbus to be closer to family as they welcomed their first son. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, exercising, reading, and traveling.

Andrea Webster, AUD, CCC-A

Director of Audiology Services

Dr. Andrea Webster obtained her Bachelor of Science and Master of Communication Disorders degrees from Auburn University before receiving her clinical doctorate from Pennsylvania College of Optometry, School of Audiology. She has a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She also is licensed by six state boards including the Georgia State Board of Examiners for Speech Pathology and Audiology. Dr. Webster's special interest is in hearing aid evaluations and fittings. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.

Ashley H. Clements, AUD, CCC-A

Audiologist

Dr. Ashley Clements earned her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2000 and her Master's degree in Audiology in 2002, both from the University of Georgia. She then received her Clinical Doctorate of Audiology in 2008 from A.T. Still University. A Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology, Dr. Clements is certified by the ASHA. Prior to joining Columbus Speech & Hearing Center in 2015, she was an audiologist at The ENT Center of Central Georgia in Macon and Warner Robins. In her personal life, Dr. Clements is married to her wonderful husband, Brad. They have two children, a son, Hobbs, and a daughter, Mallory. Dr. Clements enjoys traveling, spending time with her family and following UGA football. Go Dawgs!

Rachael Pennock, AUD, CCC-A

Audiologist

Rachael Pennock earned her undergraduate degrees (a B.S. in psychology and a B.A. in communication science & disorders) from the University of Pittsburgh. She completed her doctorate in audiology at the University of South Florida. Dr. Pennock's externship was completed at Columbus Speech & Hearing Center. During the year-long placement, she worked with adults and pediatric patients for audiological evaluations, hearing aid fittings and adjustments, auditory processing evaluations, and automated brainstem responses. She is very passionate about working in private practice audiology, where she can collaborate with other allied health professionals. Dr. Pennock loves the fact that Columbus Speech & Hearing Center is like a family where providers are so kind and welcoming. Dr. Pennock is a member of the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA), American Doctors of Audiology (ADA), and American Academy of Audiology. She holds her certificate of clinical competency in audiology from the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association. Outside the office, Dr. Pennock enjoys playing with her dog, spending time with her friends and family, cooking and baking, playing board games, and reading.

Hayes Vinson Giddens, AUD, CCC-A

Dr. Hayes Vinson Giddens is a third generation two-time Auburn graduate where she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders and her Doctorate of Audiology. Dr. Giddens is a certified clinical audiologist and has earned her Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology through the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association. She found her love for the field of Audiology through working with and caring for her grandparents, but enjoys working with patients of all ages. Her particular passion is working with those with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. Outside of work, Dr. Giddens enjoys spending time with her husband, Zach, and two precious pups, Lucy and Bear. With a Golden Retriever and German Short Haired Pointer, life is always interesting and lint rollers are always a must! She also enjoys playing tennis with her friends, taking long walks on the LaGrange Thread, and baking homemade chocolate chip cookies.

Chelsea Powell, BS

Doctor of Audiology Graduate Student | 2024

Chelsea Powell earned her Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders from Auburn University in 2016. She will graduate with her Clinical Doctorate of Audiology from Auburn University in May 2024. Throughout her time in graduate school, Chelsea has completed clinical internships at Children's Rehabilitation Services, Harbin Clinic, East Alabama ENT, Auburn University Speech and Hearing Clinic, and AUM Speech and Hearing Clinic. Chelsea is currently completing her fourth-year clinical externship at Columbus Speech and Hearing Center. She is a member of the Student Academy of Audiology and the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association. Chelsea's capstone research was published in the Teaching and Learning in Communication Sciences & Disorders Journal titled, "Can The Use of Art and Active Learning Improve Retention and Observational Skills Among Audiology Graduate Students?" In her personal life, Chelsea is married to her sweet husband, Justin, and they have two amazing dogs, Piper and Truett. Chelsea enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, reading, and being outdoors.

Sheree Bowen

Licensed Audiology Assistant

Sheree has been employed with Columbus Speech & Hearing Center since 2011. She graduated from Columbus Technical College in 2009 and NOVA Southwestern in 2015. Sheree serves as the center's audiology assistant and her duties include the fitting and maintenance of hearing aids along with many other tasks associated with excellent audiology service. She is married and has a son and a daughter. She actively volunteers at her church and she enjoys spending time with family and friends and watching football.

Ashlyn Wheat, BS

Doctor of Audiology Graduate Student / 2025

Ashlyn Wheat earned her Bachelor of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences from Auburn University in 2021. She will graduate with her Clinical Doctorate of Audiology from Auburn University in May 2025. Throughout her career as a graduate student, Ashlyn has completed clinical internships at UAB Civitan Sparks Clinics for pediatrics, Children's Rehabilitation Services, Hearing Solutions of Birmingham, Vocational Rehabilitation Services, and the Auburn University Speech and Hearing Clinic. She is a member of the Educational Audiology Association and the Student Academy of Audiology. She currently serves as a member of the Student Committee for EAA and recently completed an advocacy internship with Alabama Hands and Voices. Ashlyn was published as a co-author in The Teaching and Learning in Communication Sciences & Disorders Journal for a study titled, "Can the Use of Art and Actie Learning Improve Retention and Observational Skills Among Audiology Graduate Students?" Ashlyn lives in Opelika, AL and loves to spend time with friends, sing, read, find the best cup of coffee, and serve in Music and Children's ministry at her church.

Lillie Clair Hoven, BS

Doctor of Audiology Graduate Student / 2025

Lillie Clair earned her Bachelor of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences from Auburn University in 2021. She will graduate with her Clinical Doctorate of Audiology from The University of South Alabama in May 2025. During her time in graduate school, Lillie completed clinical internships at Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola, Coastal Alabama Hearing, and Premier Medical ENT. Lillie Clair is currently completing her fourth-year clinical externship at Columbus Speech and Hearing Center. She is a member of the Student Academy of Audiology. Lillie Clair enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and embroidering gifts for friends.

Caitlyn Barfield, MSOT, OTR/L

Director of Occupational Therapy

I received my Bachelor's degree in Health Science at Columbus State University in 2014. I then went on to receive my Master's of Science in Occupational Therapy from Brenau University in Gainesville, GA and graduated in 2018.

Kaylee Skapinakis, MSOT, OTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Kaylee was raised in Charlotte, North Carolina and has known that she wanted to be an occupational therapist since she was in the 8th grade where she served in the special education room at her school and saw how person centered and fun the OT was with all of the students in the room. Kaylee shadowed pediatric OTs for 9 years from the 8th grade all of the way up until she graduated with her Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from Cleveland State University. As a big kid herself, Kaylee has a great passion for working with kids, so it only made sense that since her graduation in 2018, Kaylee has followed her passion and worked as a pediatric occupational therapist in outpatient clinics and the schools. Kaylee has special and extensive training in SOS feeding/picky eating, sensory processing/modulation, executive functioning, handwriting, and overall fine motor skills. Kaylee is happily married to her husband/best friend, Yianni, who is currently stationed at Fort Moore, and they have 2 beautiful baby girls: Ruby and Adeline. Some of Kaylee's favorite things include: Jesus, Disney, Christmas, chips & queso, hiking/exploring the great outdoors, line/swing dancing, and spending time with her family.

Richard J. Cellino, Jr.

Chief Operating Officer

Joined Columbus Speech and Hearing on May 1st 2019 as the Chief Operating Officer. Previously, Rich spent 25 years working at Synovus Financial while serving in various capacities which include: Commercial Underwriter, Commercial Credit Officer, Commercial Lender, and most recently held the position of Director of Credit Administration. Away from work, Rich enjoys distance running and almost any activity that gets him outdoors. Rich loves Young Life and has volunteered with the organization for over 20 years. Rich has also served on the boards of the Valley Rescue Mission, Junior Achievement and Christ Community Church. Rich is married to Dr. Alice Cellino and they have two loving, caring, hardworking boys named Ford and Sam.

Certifications and/or degrees:

• BBA _ Finance Georgia Southern
• Masters of Science Columbus State University
• Graduate School of Banking LSU

Brandon Glover, BBA

Office Manager

After receiving his Associate in Science degree from Chattahoochee Valley Community College in 2000, Brandon graduated from Troy University two years later with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Business Administration. As the office manager, he oversees the front office and billing departments. He enjoys spending time with his children, Jaxson and Addison, coaching their sports teams, boating, swimming, going to the gym and DIY projects. He also enjoys karaoke!

Chris Weik

Front Office Supervisor

Most recently joined Columbus Speech & Hearing Center in January 2019 as the Front Office Supervisor. He received his Bachelor's degree in communications from Columbus State University in 2013.

Outside of work I spend all of my time with my wife and our 3 year old son. We enjoy taking him to the park, to the beach and plan on signing him up for tee ball in the near future. I am an avid Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Falcons fan and I enjoy watching the games with my son.

My dad was in the Army for almost 30 years which afforded us the opportunity to see the world. When I was in the 8th grade we moved to Vicenza, Italy where we lived for about 5 years. I am grateful for the fact that I have been able to visit places like Italy, Germany, France and England with my family.

Martha West

Billing/Accounts Receivable

Martha has been employed with Columbus Speech & Hearing Center since 1996. Her duties include billing, acquiring insurance authorizations and payments. Outside of the office, Martha enjoys reading all kinds of books. She loves to watch old classic black & white movies. She is a back-up singer with her husband and worship team at church. She loves all animals and has a collection of pets at home that includes two beautiful sheltie dogs, Evie and Shiloh, three fish, two rainbow finches and a canary.

Debra Gavens

Adult Center - Front Office Receptionist

I have one beautiful daughter, Ashley, who graduated with a masters from UGA. My handsome son, Jon Stirling Jr., and his wife Marcie have two active boys - Jacob and Jack. I have a fiancé, Angel Lozada, who I met while volunteering at the American Legion. I love baking and I am a movie enthusiast of different periods and genres. I like Hallmark Christmas movies as that is my favorite time of year - I wish Christmas would last longer.

Queen Briggs

Pediatric Center - Front Office Receptionist

Queen graduated with her Bachelor's in English from Columbus State University. While an undergrad, she took a special interest in fantasy literature and Tolkein. Queen also spent a lot of time volunteering at campus libraries both on main campus and abroad to discover her love for archival work. At CSHC, Queen works as a receptionist/assistant and is certainly eager to help anyone!

In her spare time, Queen enjoys reading and writing. She also spends most of her time with her family. Queen's dream vacation is anywhere with a cliffside beach, a gigantic library, or something related to fantasy literature!

Come by and say hi, and have an Awesome Possum Day!

Cecelia (Cece) Sommers-Richter

Pediatric Center - Front Office Receptionist

Cecelia joined the Front Office team in August 2024. She a proud Midwesterner but is lucky to call Georgia home. She holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Middlebury College. She comes to CSHC with a background in visual arts, education, and bread baking and is currently working towards going back to school for Occupational Therapy. She enjoys spending her time experimenting with various sewing projects, being amongst friends and family, and cuddling with the two cats, Gal and Iris, she shares with her boyfriend, Sam.