Luis Hernandez
CEO/OwnerEmail: luis@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 101
Luis Hernandez is the owner and CEO of Ryan’s Place. The agency’s mission is deeply tied to his love for the health and human services field and the people he serves. Luis wants every person he works with to feel valued, empowered, and inspired to have an E.P.I.C approach to life.
Laura Lee
President/QPEmail: laura@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 102
Laura Lee graduated Summa Cum Laude from Queens University of Charlotte with a degree in English Creative Writing, English Literature, and Anthropology/Ethnography. After college, Laura worked in private early education services. She worked as a caregiver part-time, and this led to her first QP job at a local provider agency. After many years of working for other providers, Laura crossed paths with Luis Hernandez. She has had the honor of watching Ryan’s Place grow from a dream to what it is today. Laura is passionate about advocacy, education, and rights. She loves policies and procedures, but most of all, she is dedicated to building this vision into a beautiful, thriving, visible community of individuals, families, and caregivers. When she is not working, Laura loves spending time with Luis, their children, and their dogs. She loves to garden, write, sing, and do yoga.
Andrew Devore
Chief Financial Officer Email: andrew@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 109
I serve as Chief Financial Officer at Ryan’s Place, where each day is a blessing to work. A lot of what I do is behind the scenes, but on a week-to-week basis, I run payroll for our 25+ admins and 250+ DSPs. In the background, I manage our accounting, financial reporting, and tax compliance, along with various other projects that may come up. Ryan’s Place is ever-growing, and my skill set is needed in a variety of places along the way. In my free time, I really enjoy spending time with family and friends, usually on a golf course, and of course, spending quality time with my dog Boa.
Allan Azali
Chief Operations Officer/QPEmail: allan@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 103
Allan Azali the Chief Operations Officer at Ryan’s Place LLC. I work with and support all of the members, families, and staff with day to day operational management of the agency. Whether this pertains to community outreach, conflict resolution, contractual/authorization concerns, or stepping in for emergency Direct Support to individuals I wear many hats and am always open to finding ways to improve services and opportunities for everyone involved with the agency.
Priscilla Perez
Executive Assistant to CEO, Luis Hernandez Email: Priscilla@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 100
Twenty-five years of experience assisting high-level management executives and office administration.
BA in Business Administration (Magna Cum Laude).
Experience as a Special Education Facilitator, Disaster Case Management Team Leader, organizational skills, event planning, and customer service oriented. Fully bilingual (English and Spanish).
Laura Lassiter
Operations AssistantEmail: laural@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 125
Laura Lassiter is our Operations Assistant in the afternoon and has a background in customer service and administration as well as healing arts. She has an Associates Degree from CPCC. She has been with Ryan’s Place since 2023. You can find her doing anything from answering phones, creating flyers, managing our website content and social media or just being a kind face at the front desk. In her free time, she enjoys hanging out with friends and family, or you can catch her at a concert or show around town.
Whitney Taylor
Forensic Compliance OfficerEmail: Whitney@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 106
With over 20 years in the IDD field, Whitney Taylor brings expertise and a steady hand to billing and finance. As Forensic Compliance Officer at Ryan’s Place, she leads the Billing and EVV team with precision, accountability, and a touch of dry humor. Known for her sharp eye and problem-solving skills, Whitney excels at turning billing chaos into order. Her motto? “Life is short but sweet for certain”—a mindset she brings to work every day: focused, optimistic, and always ready to spot the silver lining (or the misplaced decimal point).
Yaima Hernandez
Billing Specialist (Spanish)Email: yaima@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 120
Yaima Hernandez is a native of Cuba and has been with Ryan’s Place since 2023 as part of our Billing team doing invoicing and compiling weekly payroll. One of her performance goals is to improve efficiency in these areas overall with problem-solving. Yaima has a passion for numbers and math, and in her free time, she enjoys being with family and friends.
Belkis “Aris” Urena
Lead Billing SpecialistEmail: aris@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 119
Aris is our Lead Billing Specialist and hails from the Dominican Republic and joined our team in 2024. She handles all aspects of the billing process to ensure accurate and timely invoicing.Outside of work, Aris loves long walks outdoors, exercising, and spending time with her dog and family.
Lily Valle
Billing Assistant/EVV SpecialistEmail: lily@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 121
Lilly Valle joined our team in 2024 as a part of our Billing Team handling EVV cases. She always has a smile and approaches every task with a positive attitude and enjoys interacting with others. In her free time she likes watching TV.
Peter Rooney
Executive Director/QPEmail: peter@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 104
Peter is the Executive Director at Ryan’s Place. He started in the Health and Human Services field as a Direct Support Professional in 2009. Peter has been fortunate to have been mentored by numerous subject matter experts during his career and excels in his ability to advocate for those with special needs through research and diplomacy. Peter is a Dual Diagnosis Specialist through the National Association for the Dually Diagnosed (NADD-DDS) and Certified Brain Injury Specialist through the Academy of Certified Brain Injury Specialists (CBIS). In addition to his professional competencies, Peter fights crime in the dark alleys of Charlotte, NC, keeping his family safe from ne’er-do wells.
Angel Raines
Lead QP/Clinical DirectorEmail: angel@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 107
Angel is a dedicated Qualified Professional with a Bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Since 2016, she has focused on supporting individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in various capacities. With a strong background in behavioral intervention, Angel spent three years as a Registered Behavior Technician, refining her skills in support and treatment. Now, as Clinical Director at Ryan’s Place, Angel empowers her team to provide high-quality care, while leveraging her expertise and empathy to help individuals with IDD achieve their goals and lead fulfilling lives.
Maricarmen Nance
Bilingual QPEmail: maricarmen@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 114
Maricarmen has been with Ryan’s Place since July of 2023 serving as the Bilingual Qualified Professional. When not at Ryan’s Place, she is a proud wife, mother of 4, and dog and plant mom. Maricarmen has over a decade’s experience in healthcare and customer service, including early childhood, physical health, mental health, developmental disabilities, substance use disorders, and quality management. While pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Wingate University, Maricarmen started her professional journey with the IDD population during her time as a childcare assistant in 2009. She continued her journey into healthcare as a Clinical Operations Liaison gaining clinical experience, as well as training and development. Eventually she landed at Mecklenburg’s Managed Care Organization developing knowledge in regulatory compliance, internal/external auditing and investigation, quality improvement and care coordination. During that time she also invested time as a direct support professional. She has a passion for helping people, problem-solving and advocacy.
Khala Huntley
Qualified ProfessionalEmail: khala@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 112
Khala Huntley is a Qualified Professional (BAQP). She has gained experience through the years as a Special Education Teacher – High School and Elementary Level, working for Autism Society of NC as well Autism Charlotte. Khala grew skills and knowledge in the field of Mental Health working as a QP conducting Intensive In-Home Therapy and her respective role as a Registered Behavior Technician administering ABA therapy, home and clinic based. Her love for the population has existed since she was 17 years old and she has made it a mission to create change and progress with the members she continues to work with. She has a passion for networking and reaching the community, sharing her knowledge and experience to promote progress and growth and she uses her social media presence to bring awareness to our agency and the population we serve. Khala enjoys spending time with the members at the Day Program, leading activities and creating sustainable relationships with the families she meets. Her heart has kept her in this field for over 10 years with plans to continue this great work as it aligns with the mission and vision of Ryan’s Place!
Katrina “Kat” Peralta-Patel
Qualified ProfessionalEmail: katrina@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 113
For as long as I can remember, I always had a heart for caregiving. My first experience working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities was for Warren Special Recreation Association as a summer camp counselor. During this time, I quickly learned how to provide appropriate care to children with Down Syndrome, Autism, and Cerebral Palsy. My experience left a lasting impact on me and I knew this was a population I wanted to serve. This motivated me to pursue a masters in Therapeutic Recreation from State University of New York at Cortland. Through this program, I was an intern at Marion Diehl Recreation Center. I was given the opportunity to develop and cultivate various skills: creativity, goal development and program implementation. I utilized my hands-on experience in the role of a Direct Support Professional for four years after completion. As a DSP, I worked closely with members and their families, providing community living and support, community networking, and respite services. Observing the growth and progress of my clients motivated me to be better and grow in my supporting role. As of recent development, I joined the Ryan’s Place team as a QP. I look forward to putting into practice the knowledge and skills I have developed throughout the years. I strive to navigate the world by listening to the lived experiences of others and inspire a person-centered mindset that regards human beings for who they are. Everyone deserves a world of possibilities regardless of their ability!
Danielle Coles-Walton
Qualified ProfessionalEmail: danielle@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 116
Meet Danielle Coles-Walton, a Qualified Professional (BSQP) with over a decade of hands-on experience. Danielle is a passionate and dedicated professional in the field of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD). She graduated from Wilmington University in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Dynamics. Her journey began in her childhood, fueled by an earnest desire to help members reach their fullest potential. Danielle believes that every member deserves the chance to enhance their functional skills—be it self-care, communication, or socialization—and she has dedicated herself to making that vision a reality. Danielle’s practical experience is deeply rooted in her upbringing; she often accompanied her parents, who were Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), gaining invaluable insight into the lives of those she serves. She later took on the role of a DSP herself, before moving into the role of a Coordinator of Special Programs where she worked closely with each member to create tailored treatment plans that catered to the members unique needs and aspirations. What brings Danielle the greatest joy is witnessing her members flourish, overcoming hurdles and reaching their goals. Her daily inspiration comes from her two sons. Outside of her professional life, Danielle cherishes quality time spent with family and friends, enjoying the simple pleasures that life offers. Her unwavering commitment to her work and her community truly sets her apart as a beacon of support and encouragement in the I/DD field.
Carimar “Carrie” Tavera-Batista
Associate ProfessionalEmail: carimar@ryansplaceclt.com
Carimar graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. After college, she transitioned into various roles, ranging from environmental services to the fresh fruit industry (fun fact: ask her anything about pineapples or bananas!). Following a major life transition, Carimar joined Ryan’s Place as a Direct Support Professional, working one-on-one with members to assist with their daily needs and help them work towards both short-term and long-term goals. She now serves as a bilingual Associate Professional (AP). In her free time, if she’s not traveling, she’s spending time with her pup Ricky, writing, or enjoying music.
Julitza Valle Bilingual
Associate ProfessionalEmail: julitza@ryansplaceclt.com
Marco Quick
Day Program/Supported Employment DirectorEmail: marco@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 123
Marco is our multi-talented Day Program/Supported Employment Director; he has been with Ryan’s Place since 2021. He has a passion for helping others, is people-oriented, likes fixing things, grilling out, and always has a smile and a positive mindset. In his free time, he enjoys watching and playing sports.
Erika Ingram
Day Program Activities DirectorEmail: erika@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 1111
Erika Ingram joined Ryan’s Place in February 2025 as part of our Day Program organizing engaging and meaningful activities for our Members. Erika hails from Wadesboro NC, with a passion for helping others. She has 25 years of experience in this type of work and has been a valuable addition to the agency. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, fishing, riding her motorcycle, and going to church, just to name a few.
Maritza Nunez
NEMT Transportation Director/Day Program AssistantEmail: maritza@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 110
Maritza Nunez has been with Ryan’s Place since 2022 and is our NEMT Transportation Director and Day Program Administrator. Maritza has a passion for our members and providing them exceptional service with lots of love. Her sparkling presence can also be found assisting in training and many other areas of the agency. In her free time she enjoys dancing and cooking.
Megan Keoboupha
Vice Operations Officer/QPEmail: megan@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 105
Megan is the Vice Operations Officer at Ryan’s Place. She started her career in the health and human services field as a direct support professional in 2011 after finishing her Bachelor’s in Psychology. Megan worked in healthcare for 8 years prior to coming back to the IDD services field after obtaining her Master’s in Healthcare Administration. Megan is committed to refining processes and ensuring our agency’s efficiency and effectiveness so we are able to provide the best opportunities for our members and community. She is a strong advocate for our members, ensuring they have the services needed and supporting families throughout the process of the Innovations Waiver.
Shyonna Hernandez
Intake CoordinatorEmail: shyonna@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 124
Shyonna serves as the Intake Coordinator at Ryan’s Place, where she plays a vital role in welcoming and supporting every new member as well as their families. With compassion and attention to detail, she guides individuals through the intake process, ensuring that each client receives the personalized care and services they need. Shyonna is passionate about creating a positive first experience and is committed to contributing to the supportive and inclusive environment that Ryan’s Place is known for.
Felecia Keller
Group Home MangerEmail: feleciak@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 127
Hello, my name is Felecia Keller. I am Ryan’s Place Group Home Manager. I have over 30 years working in this field. I am transplanted from Upstate New York where I have been educated at Dutchess Community College. I worked at the Office of Family and Children Services on the Mental Health Units and have managed Group Homes. After relocating to North Carolina, I got strictly into working with Developmentally Disabled. After working for several agencies, I came across Ryan’s Place. I worked 1 on 1 for a couple of years then I secured the Group Home Manager position.
Brandi Boyd
HR DirectorEmail: brandi@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 108
Hello my name is Brandi Boyd, BSWQP. I joined Ryan’s Place team in October of 2022. Thus far, this experience has been a gratifying journey.
I’m currently the HR Director at Ryan’s Place, with a Bachelor’s of Social Work. I was born and raised in Charlotte, NC. I have a driven heart to cater to underserved populations. My experiences diversified from early childhood education to the human service field, working with disabled individuals. I served with Senior Services, Inc, and Gramercy Research Project in Winston-Salem, NC. The past few years have been opportunities to enhance my knowledge and skill set to better serve my desired population. This journey thus far has been a gratifying experience. I plan to continue to increase my skillset and knowledge alongside helping Ryan’s Place grow.
Jasmine Valle
HR AssistantEmail: jasmine@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 122
Jasmine Valle joined Ryan’s Place in 2024 as part of our HR Team assisting with onboarding of new staff and overall compliance.of the agency. She always has a positive attitude and is ready to take on any task required with a smile. In her free time, she enjoys art and has a talent for drawing.
Shone Williams
Training/Development DirectorEmail: shone@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 118
Shone’ Williams, BA QP CMC is the Training and Development Director at Ryan’s Place since 2023. Shone’ began her career in the Health and Human Services field as a Mental Health Associate Professional in 2007, after graduating with a BA Psychology Degree.
With a passion to help others, Shone’ has continued to serve in the Health and Human Services field, taking on several roles such as: MH Clinical Director, Job Coach for Deaf and Blind individuals, Office Program Director, Day Program Coordinator, I/DD Qualified Professional, HR Associate, and a Mecklenburg County Care Coordinator.
With a vibrant personality and an unforgettable presence, Shone’ has always had a passion to pass on her knowledge to others in the I/DD field and has found her purpose currently serving as a Training and Development Director and Event Manager at Ryan’s Place.
At Ryan’s Place, Shone’ continues to be an advocate for people with disabilities and their right to have choices in who they are, build healthy relationships, and overall the right love. Shone’s deep commitment advocating for individual rights has inspired the creation of the current Healthy Relationships Program called Lovers and Friends.
Susana Menendez
Referral/Enrollment Director.Email: susana@ryansplaceclt.com Ext: 117
Hi, my name is Susana Menendez. I am the Referral and Enrollment Director at Ryan’s Place. I oversee the screening of all incoming referrals. Originally from Cuba, I have been working in this field since 2019.
I am passionate about providing help, support, and education to those who need it. What I love most about my career is the positive impact and the difference we make in the lives of our members and their families daily.
My skills include: Direct Support Professional, Human Resources, Billing, Alternative Family Living, and my current role as Referral Director.
