André Marria

Thomasville Rotarian Andre’ Hadley Marria’s life work has been focused on making a difference for people in rural Georgia counties who were (or are) dealing with mental health, youth health and safety, and teen pregnancy issues. We celebrate her work this month as we honor Andre’ as a Rotary Person of Action.

Andre' retired in 2008 as Director of the Thomas County Department of Family & Children Services (DFCS), completing 34 years of public service with the Georgia Department of Human Resources. During her career, she was instrumental in establishing the first substance abuse prevention programs and revitalizing revitalized community-based mental health services in 14 rural counties.

Her work for the community did not stop with her retirement. She has been very active with the Marquette Williams Boys and Girls Club of Southwest Georgia - an organization dedicated to “enabling all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens ... by promoting the health, social, educational, vocational and character development of boys and girls” and “helping young people improve their lives by building self-esteem and developing values and skills.” In 2010, Andre’ was honored as the organization's Volunteer of the Year.

Currently she is a consultant and serves as Fidelity Manager/Trainer of Trainers for The Morehouse School of Medicine Health Promotion unit, overseeing a research-based Teen Pregnancy Prevention Initiative Scales Grant in Thomas, Grady, and Dougherty Counties. Andre' is trained as a Licensed Professional Counselor and currently works as a Certified Clinical Supervisor of B. S., and Masters-level Child and Adolescent Therapist who are seeking state licensure. In 2016, she received the John C. Burns III Licensed Professional Counselors Association Lifetime Achievement Award for her 39 years of service and endorsement of the Profession of Counseling.

Andre' has been part of the Thomasville Rotary Club for the last 12 years and will serve as Club President in 2018-19. For all her accomplishments, we say thank you for continuing to make a difference.