Nearly 100 CTI Advisers Gather in Athens for CTAERN Winter Workshop
Athens, GA - Nearly 100 CTI Coordinators from across the state came together in Athens, Georgia, for the CTAERN Winter Workshop, coordinated by Cherie Miller of the Georgia Department of Education CTAE Department. The event provided a valuable opportunity for advisers to learn, collaborate, and strengthen their support of CTI students through shared ideas, new resources, and professional connections.
Held at the UGA Center for Continuing Education, the workshop focused on growth, collaboration, and practical tools advisers can bring back to their classrooms and programs. Advisers received positive updates from the Georgia Department of Education CTAE Special Populations Program Specialist, Cherie Miller, and learned more about Georgia SPECTE and the benefits of joining, as well as new instructional and program resources to support student success.
One of the most meaningful moments of the day came from Laci Rawlins, a former CTI student, who shared what CTI meant to her and how the organization changed her life. Her message brought encouragement, perspective, and thoughtful feedback for advisers, reinforcing the impact CTI programs have on students beyond high school.
Throughout the day, advisers also broke into regional meetings to receive targeted updates and information from Georgia CTI Board members, allowing for focused discussion and collaboration specific to their areas. In addition to professional learning, the workshop offered plenty of time for networking, reconnecting with colleagues, and building new relationships — all while enjoying great food and a welcoming atmosphere.
The CTAERN Winter Workshop officially began with a Georgia CTI Adviser Networking Event on January 15, hosted by Georgia CTI CTSO and held at the Rialto Club at Hotel Indigo in downtown Athens. Advisers gathered for an evening of connection and conversation ahead of the full workshop day.
The January 16 workshop agenda included:
- Registration and breakfast in the Magnolia Ballroom
- A welcome from Cherie Miller and the Georgia Department of Education CTAE update
- Presentations from Jody Reeves of the Georgia Association for Career and Technical Education
- A keynote message from Laci Rawlins, former CTI student
- A session led by Treena Edwards on integrating employability skills
- A Georgia CTI CTSO update presented by Mary Donahue
Georgia CTI extends sincere thanks to the Georgia Department of Education CTAE Program Area, the UGA Center for Continuing Education, and all guest speakers who contributed to a successful and inspiring event. The CTAERN Winter Workshop highlighted CTI coordinators' dedication and reinforced the shared commitment to supporting students through leadership, career exploration, and real-world readiness.
To view photos of the event, please click HERE.
For further information, please contact:
Mary Davis Donahue
Georgia CTI Executive Director
(P) 678.617.0439 | (F) 706.314.9624
3 Central Plaza, #245, Rome, GA 30161
About Georgia CTI
Our Mission: To provide meaningful transition activities through leadership and employability experiences for students with disabilities in grades 9-12 identified through career, technical, and agricultural education courses in order to increase postsecondary outcomes.