" Unity is strength. When there is teamwork and collaboration wonderful things can be achieved."
- Mattie Stepanek
Meet Our Staff
The small staff here at GCOA is committed to advocating for the seniors of Georgia. We rely heavily on our Council Members and their time and efforts and we are always looking for more people who are interested in advocacy for seniors. If you would like to volunteer for us in any capacity, please complete this form and submit it to us so we can get you started!
Executive Director
Debra Stokes
Debra Stokes brings more than four decades of professional, non-profit, and government relations experience to the role. While the positions have changed, her value to each organization has been defined by her ability to coalesce the many resources necessary to achieve defined goals. To achieve the mission of the Council effectively and efficiently, bringing together multiple stakeholders is critical.
Among other positions, Ms. Stokes spent eight years “Under the Gold Dome” supporting the members of the Georgia General Assembly as they traverse the Legislative process to provide for the needs of all the citizens of our State. More recently, she served as Executive Director of the Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center (GRHIC) at Mercer University School of Medicine in Macon. GHRIC was created to specifically address the healthcare needs of citizens living in Georgia’s rural communities.
Ms. Stokes currently lives in Marietta and is married to Ralph Stokes. The couple has been married for 46 years and have two adult daughters and two teenage granddaughters.
Deputy Director
Ashley Burton
Ashley Burton began her career in human services after completing her undergraduate degree in Political Science at Valdosta State University.
Prior to her start in the Commissioner’s Office at the Department of Human Services, she interned during the 2014-2015 legislative session with the Georgia General Assembly, House of Representatives. Since then, she has spent her career advocating for Georgia’s constituents by ensuring they had equal and appropriate access to the Department’s services while working in the Office of Legislative Affairs and Outreach and most recently, External Affairs through Constituent Services. During this period, she expanded her knowledge surrounding the issues faced by older adults and developed a passion towards addressing those issues to enhance the lives of those affected.
Outside of the office, Ashley enjoys traveling with her fiancé and spending time with family and friends.
Communications Specialist
Dwayna Williams
Dwayna Williams, M.S., is a dynamic communications and public relations professional with a rich blend of entrepreneurial spirit and corporate acumen. Holding degrees from North Carolina Central University and Georgia State University, Dwayna embarked on an eight-year entrepreneurial journey, establishing herself as a savvy brand strategist and PR consultant. Her innovative approach led to features on prominent platforms such as NBC, ABC, CBS, Sister Circle, Tom Joyner Morning Show, U.S. News & World Report, Fox Sports, Thrive Global, Medium, Upscale Magazine, Heart & Soul, Ebony/Jet, Black Enterprise, Sheen Magazine, and Rolling Out Magazine.
In 2025, Dwayna transitioned back into the corporate sphere, bringing her wealth of experience to this role in communications and marketing. She has collaborated with brands in the lifestyle and higher education sectors, amplifying the presence of changemakers and purpose-driven entrepreneurs. Her expertise is further solidified by a Master of Science in Marketing and certifications in brand and customer management.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Dwayna is a children's book author, having penned "Nasir the Paleontologist," reflecting her commitment to inspiring young minds. She cherishes time with her husband and sons, often creating engaging content for social media that resonates with her audience. An avid traveler, Dwayna loves exploring new destinations with her family, and her affinity for coffee fuels her creativity and daily pursuits.
Support Services Specialist
Nicola Brown
Nicola Brown is a dedicated Patient Care Technician at Emory Healthcare, specializing in the study and care of older adults. She began her career as an Administrative Intern with GCOA, demonstrating a strong commitment to healthcare from the outset. Currently, Nicola is pursuing a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies in Gerontology at Georgia State University, reflecting her dedication to enhancing the lives of the elderly.
Originally from Kingston, Jamaica, Nicola's journey led her through Long Island before settling in her current location. She has been happily married for 12 years and is a proud mother of three children and grandmother to four grandchildren. In her personal time, Nicola cherishes moments spent with family and friends and has a passion for reading.