Alexis Williams, MA,CCC-SLP
Alexis Williams, MA, CCC-SLP is a proud graduate of South Carolina State University and the University of Florida. As the mother of two neurodivergent sons, autism advocacy is not just her passion; it’s her life’s work. Alexis has been navigating the autism spectrum since her children were in daycare, providing special needs support through every stage of life, including elementary and secondary education, post-secondary learning, and now independent living as young adults.
With over 35 years of experience as an ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist, Alexis brings a deeply rooted and well-rounded perspective to her practice in speech-language pathology. Her clinical background spans across the lifespan and includes work in Early Intervention, Healthcare, Private Practice, Schools, and Telepractice. For nearly two decades, she has focused her expertise within school settings, enhancing support for children with diverse needs.
In addition to her clinical work, Alexis held a leadership role managing a speech-language pathology and multidisciplinary pediatric rehabilitation team at a top-ranked healthcare system and Level I Trauma Center. She also served on the inaugural Parent Advisory Board for Charlotte-Mecklenburg’s Exceptional Children’s Department, where she was Vice-Chair for three years. Alexis is a committed advocate for inclusion, equity, and access for individuals with special needs and diverse abilities.
Her guiding belief: “Together, we will figure it out.”
Alonzia J. Downing, EdD.
Dr. Alonzia J. Downing is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, educator, educational consultant, and special education advocate with extensive experience supporting children, families, teachers, and schools. She is a proud graduate of North Carolina A&T State University and earned her Master’s degree from North Carolina Central University and Doctorate in Education (EdD) from Aspen University.
Dr. Downing began her career as an Exceptional Children’s teacher, where she was recognized as Teacher of the Year. Her classroom experience provided her with a strong foundation in differentiated instruction, adaptive and separate-setting classroom environments, behavior and communication supports, curriculum development, and meeting the individual needs of students with disabilities.
She later transitioned into speech-language pathology, where she has provided assessment, intervention, consultation, case management, and collaborative support to students, families, educators, and multidisciplinary teams. Her unique background as both a former special education teacher and Speech-Language Pathologist allows her to approach student needs from both an instructional and communication perspective.
Dr. Downing is also committed to continued professional growth and regularly participates in professional development, specialized trainings, and educational learning opportunities to remain informed about current practices and strategies for supporting diverse learners. Through Four Hearts Connection, she provides consulting, training, and professional development to educators and organizations in areas such as adaptive classroom setup and structure, curriculum and instructional materials, communication supports, classroom systems, and practical strategies for supporting students with exceptional needs.
Her passion for advocacy is also shaped by her experience as a parent, giving her a valuable perspective that bridges the gap between families, educators, and service providers.
Today, Dr. Downing uses her combined experience in education, speech-language pathology, leadership, advocacy, and consulting to empower families and strengthen the professionals who serve children with diverse needs.
Her motto: “Every step forward is a victory, and we’re here to walk with you on that journey.”
