Our Leadership
James "Jim" A. Bue
Interim Executive Director
Jim holds a Master of Technology degree from Georgia Southern University and is well-versed in the healthcare Environment of Care, Life Safety, Emergency Management, Property Management, and Fleet Operations. Known for his strategic thinking and steady leadership, Jim is deeply committed to Vashti’s mission of serving children and families in crisis. His passion for trauma-informed care and organizational excellence continues to guide his leadership as he helps steward the organization through this important season of transition and growth.
Kamini Ramcharran
Associate Director
Kamini was the previous Director of Community Based Services-South for Elks Aidmore Inc., a foster care agency, managing the Valdosta and Savannah locations. Through the different agencies she has worked with the ultimate goal has been the same, to help create a stable foundation for children so they can grow and thrive.
Tammy Harris
HR Director
Prior to Vashti, Tammy worked for the Southwestern State Hospital and Georgia Pines Community Service Board Behavioral Health Crisis Center, ultimately leading her here to further use her skills, love for children, and mental health background. Tammy’s commitment is to help Vashti’s workforce expand and be the best it can be, so that we can continue to serve children & families for another 120 years.
Audrey Copeland
Development & Marketing Director
Audrey comes to us with 20+ years in sales and marketing. She earned her bachelor’s degree at Furman University, and has experience in fundraising, event planning, public speaking, team building, and training. Her passion lies with helping others in need, and she uses her skillset to make the magic happen in the marketing world. She shows up with a smile and will always brighten your day with a positive word or a big hug.
Her favorite quote is by Maya Angelou, “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.”
Arlisha Williams
Program Director, RBWO
Reverend Donald Mathis
Chaplain
Reverend Donald Mathis is a seasoned pastor and community leader with over 20 years of ministry experience and 18 years in pastoral leadership across Georgia. A native of Tifton, Georgia, he has faithfully served congregations in Savannah, Statesboro, Jesup, Columbus, and more. Reverend Mathis holds an Associate of Arts in Sociology from Georgia State College, a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Savannah State University (magna cum laude), and a degree with honors from Saint Leo University. He also completed the five-year Course of Study program at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology.
In April 2025, Reverend Mathis joined The Vashti Center for Children & Families in Thomasville, Georgia, as the organization’s full-time Chaplain. In this role, he provides spiritual care and pastoral support to youth in the residential foster care program—serving teens ages 13–17 who are navigating trauma and transition. He and his wife, Margariete Joyce Mathis, have three adult children and twelve grandchildren. Guided by the belief that “Prayer Changes Things,” Reverend Mathis brings a ministry of presence, compassion, and purpose to all he serves.
Cathy Marchant, LCSW
Clinical Director
Marchant is a proud graduate of Florida State University, and holds a Master’s degree in Social Work. Cathy has strong spiritual values and these values have communicated themselves in her ministry to the children of the Vashti Center. She is a loving wife, and mother of two adult sons, and her favorite role, is being a grandma to her grandbabies.
Ashley Snipes
Director of Clinical Operations
She earned her bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration from Piedmont University in 2015 and brings a wealth of expertise in clinic management and operational strategy. Her leadership has been instrumental in expanding the reach and impact of Vashti’s services. Above all, Ashley is committed to making Vashti a safe, welcoming environment for all children and families. She is also a devoted wife and proud dog mom to her sweet dog, Georgia.
Quan Grant
Director of Outreach & Community Training
Quan Grant earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Columbia Southern University and her Master of Science degree in Management and Leadership from Western Governors University. She joined Vashti in early 2023, bringing an unmatched dedication to providing impactful training and resources to communities.
Her team raises awareness across southwest Georgia counties about adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and trauma, promoting trauma-informed care practices. They are unwavering in their commitment to empowering individuals and organizations with the tools needed to support those affected by trauma. Her department offers free community awareness events and training for organizations both on and off-campus upon request. They also partner with a vast network through Resilient Georgia’s coalitions and connections.
Monika Bowdry
Afterschool Clubhouse Director
Monika holds a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Thomas University, is currently working towards her licensure as a Professional Counselor. As the Director of the Afterschool Clubhouse, she is dedicated to supporting Thomas County’s youth, especially those who struggle to thrive in a traditional afterschool setting.
Her program caters to up to 40 children, offering after-school pickup, homework assistance, therapeutic activity time, skill-building sessions, individual therapy, and a nutritious meal before they return home. Additionally, the Clubhouse hosts a monthly family night, providing valuable training for parents and caregivers.