As co-Founder & Board Member of the Georgia Neurodiversity Chamber of Commerce (GANCC), Jacqueline "Jacey" Smith is helping shape Georgia’s first business-driven network dedicated to advancing neuroinclusive hiring, professional education, and community belonging. Before founding GANCC, she spent more than 15 years building corporate sponsorship programs and conference operations for national non-profits and health organizations. Through her consulting firm, J.C. Smith Events, LLC, Jacey built and scaled sponsorship revenue, design exhibitor experiences, and streamline venue and operations management for live events nationwide. Her career reflects a deep commitment to forging mission-aligned partnerships that sustained impactful conferences and initiatives.

Beyond her professional achievements, Jacey brings a personal passion for bridging gaps between neurodivergent talent, employers, and community ecosystems—believing that inclusive workplaces not only change lives but give organizations a competitive edge. She continues to focus on creating opportunities where neurodivergent adults feel valued, supported, and able to thrive.

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Jenny Rankin, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience specializing in pediatric mental and behavioral health. She is a dedicated Founding Board Member of the Georgia Neurodiversity Chamber of Commerce (GANCC), working to foster neuroinclusion within the Georgia business community.

Jenny's practice in Sandy Springs focuses on treating individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and OCD, specializing in developing emotional regulation and social skills. Her expertise is bolstered by a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist certification and training in DIR/Floortime therapy. Her commitment to the neurodivergent community is both professional and personal, as she is also a parent of a neurodivergent adult.

Holding two Master's degrees from Georgia State University, Jenny is committed to bridging the gap between neurodivergent individuals, service providers, and businesses to ensure access to meaningful opportunities and supportive environments.

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Cathi Arora is an accomplished leader specializing in strategic communications, community outreach and development. She is a Co-Founder of the Georgia Neurodiversity Chamber of Commerce (GNCC), where she led the organization's strategic plan, developed brand consistency, and continues to cultivate key stakeholder relationships. Cathi currently serves as the Director of Business Development for Arora Law Firm, managing marketing strategy, media relations, and online reputation. Her experience includes leading comprehensive fundraising initiatives as the former Director of Development for Cumberland Academy of Georgia, a special needs school. Cathi holds a Master of Public Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Journalism. Her leadership extends to roles as past Executive Director for the Sandy Springs Tennis Association and past President of the Huntcliff Swim and Tennis Club. 

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Krista Deguffroy is an equity and diversity professional with almost a decade of experience working within the field of DEI and talent development. While her roles have spanned across DEI, her area of specialty has been neurodiversity and disability inclusion. After 10 years in corporate financial services, she made the switch to non-profit consultancy and joined the team at Neurodiversity in the Workplace as a Senior Consultant. She partners with companies to create more neuroinclusive cultures, practices, and expand skill-based hiring programs. Krista holds a Master’s degree in Employment and Labor Relations which was her first introduction into the world of disability advocacy and belonging strategy. Krista’s career has included the launch and growth of multiple neurodiversity hiring programs, employee affinity groups, and leading DEI workshops for both internal and external communities. She is most proud of her work within neurodiversity and looks forward to growing the community within the Greater Atlanta area.

Starr Bruner joined Cumberland Trust’s Atlanta team in 2024 as a Business Development Officer, where she builds relationships with financial, legal, and tax advisors to serve clients’ estate planning needs. She previously spent six years at the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities, most recently as Director of Inclusive Postsecondary Education & Employment, working with legislators, families, universities, and agencies to support college access for students with intellectual disabilities. Starr also held roles at the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta and The Donaldson Law Firm, and has extensive experience providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to children with developmental disabilities. She graduated cum laude from Kennesaw State University with a B.S. in Psychology and a minor in Writing. Starr serves on the boards of the Frazer Center and the Georgia Neurodiversity Chamber of Commerce.

Tana Gildea, CFP®, CPA, CCFS, CDFA®, is a Principal with Homrich Berg Wealth Management, a national independent wealth management firm that provides fiduciary, fee-only investment management and financial planning services. Tana loves working with the “up and coming” clients helping them to set and work toward financial goals, make shifts as their situation changes, and serve as financial guide as they develop their holistic financial plan. Regardless of life stage, Tana is a willing partner for anyone looking to come to financial peace-of-mind.

A published author, Tana has shared a wealth of financial advice for young people and other financial novices in her award-winning book, The Graduate’s Guide to Money, and in other publications. She enjoys speaking to college students about how to start their financial lives on the right foot. Tana often speaks to women’s groups about the emotional aspects of money management.

URGENT NEED

As a start up, we are currently looking for strong community members to join us in "embracing and recognizing that neurodiversity isn't just about acceptance; it's about recognizing the boundless potential within each individual. We look to build connections with local Georgia businesses that create a world where every person is valued and empowered."