Meet Marcella

Navigating a world not meant for you can be tough. Marcella can share how to make the world work for you.

Marcella grew up with a single mother and her younger sister. Close to birth, she was diagnosed with Congenital Muscular Dystrophy which shocked her family. Marcella’s disability affects all of her muscles, but mainly her respiratory system and mobility, resulting in using a power wheelchair and a non-invasive ventilator. She was the first and only person in her community to use a power wheelchair and be in regular education classes K through 12.

With the help from her mom and support services, she went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from the University of Georgia in 2018. She also received a minor in Communication Studies and a Disability Studies certificate.

Post-college, she worked for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and nonprofit Extra Special People (ESP) in a variety of communications roles. Marcella is currently a full-time academic advisor for her alma mater. She drives, resides in Athens, GA, and loves taking her maltipoo, Reed, on walks.