Together with schools, families, and partners, we’re engaging students with chronic absenteeism, removing barriers to attendance, and empowering them to succeed.
When chronic absenteeism goes unaddressed, it impacts individual potential, school culture, and entire communities.
These absences are rarely a choice. They are the result of barriers like housing instability, trauma, and unmet needs.
We help elementary and middle school students to build positive habits before attendance challenges become legal hurdles.
We provide pro-bono legal representation to families, ensuring their voices are heard as they navigate the system and re-engage with school communities.
We build a network of shared resources and expertise through strategic partnerships, connecting families to critical support while driving systemic change.
Early Engagement Programs
Students On a Roll
(Small Group Program)
School-Wide Attendance Incentives
Truancy Intervention Programs
Legal Advocacy
Mentorship
Supportive Community Outreach Programs
Mental Health Referrals
Resource Referrals
Holiday Gift Drive
Attendance Incentives
Policy & Advocacy
At the heart of our work are volunteers, including attorneys providing pro bono legal representation to students and families.
Volunteers also assist with school-wide attendance incentives, support our holiday gift drive, and provide administrative support.
Executive Director
Dr. Tonya Malone Ferguson brings over 24 years of experience in the nonprofit sector to the role of Executive Director at the Truancy Intervention Project Georgia. Having previously served as the organization’s Programs Manager for 16 years, Dr. Ferguson played a pivotal role in shaping and expanding programs that support at-risk youth and their families. After an eight-year hiatus, during which she gained further leadership experience in nonprofit administration and education field, Dr. Ferguson returns to lead the Truancy Intervention Project with the continued commitment to the organization’s mission.
Staff Attorney
Erin is a dedicated advocate for children and families, with experience in community-based support, youth defense, and education law. She earned her J.D. from Georgia State University College of Law after working in communities to strengthen educational access and mentorship programs for students. Erin is passionate about expanding access to justice and ensuring that young people have the support they need to engage in school and thrive.
Director of Development
Kristin serves as Director of Development for the Truancy Intervention Project Georgia and brings nearly 20 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, communications, strategic partnerships and organizational growth. Throughout her career, she has helped mission-driven organizations strengthen stakeholder engagement, expand their reach and build lasting relationships with supporters and community partners. Kristin is passionate about connecting people and resources to create brighter futures for children and families across Georgia.
Student & Family Support Specialist
Brittney Horton, a native of Oceanside California, brings more than 10 years of experience serving diverse populations and supporting young adults and families. Her passion is helping youth and families overcome barriers and achieve stability, independence, and long-term success.
She holds a Master’s degree in Family Studies and a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with an emphasis in African American Studies from California State University, Northridge. Throughout her career, she has remained dedicated to helping families improve their lives, where they can grow, thrive, and achieve positive outcomes.
Brittney served as a Program Manager at a nonprofit organization in Los Angeles, where she led the Housing and Family Youth Department and helped more than 100 youth and families experiencing homelessness secure permanent supportive housing. She later relocated to Georgia, where she now lives with her husband and two children.
Director of Programs
Arianna was born and raised in Metro Atlanta. She attributes her passion for social work to her (late) great grandmother, who was a fierce advocate for those in need. Arianna received her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Georgia State University and her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Georgia. Upon graduation, she immediately began working in child welfare. She has experience serving children and families within the foster care and healthcare systems. Arianna is excited to continue advocating for youth and families to receive the support and services needed to be successful. She currently resides in Metro Atlanta with her partner, their daughter, and their dog.
Student & Family Support Specialist
Isis Wilson is a dedicated licensed master social worker with a strong commitment to community development and social justice. She holds a Master of Social Work degree from Georgia State University, specializing in community partnerships. Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, Isis recognized the need for advocates within her community early on, which fueled her passion for social work.
Her work is driven by a deep commitment to mental health advocacy, empowering individuals with the tools to promote their well-being and advocating for children’s rights. Throughout her career, Isis has continuously worked to ensure that marginalized communities receive the resources and support they need to thrive. Outside of her professional work, you’ll catch her spending time with her family, painting, and watching her favorite sports.
Director of Operations
Adrian is a native of North Carolina and proud graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Raised with the belief that “Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others”, it instilled in him a deep-rooted commitment to making a positive difference. Professionally, Adrian has a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the nonprofit sector. He is committed to seeking new ways to enhance volunteer experiences, through strategic planning and operational efficiency. Adrian lives OTP with his wife and two kids.
Josh Swiger, Board Chair
Partner – Weinberg, Wheeler, Hudgins, Gunn & Dial
Honorable Caren E. Cloud
Judge – Fulton County Juvenile Court
Derin Dickerson
Partner – Alston & Bird
Durran Dunn, Treasurer
Bennett Thrasher, LLP
Tonya Ferguson, PhD, LCSW
Executive Director
Truancy Intervention Project Georgia
Michael Johnson
Taylor Duma LLP
Rev. Rebekah Close LeMon
Senior Pastor – Trinity Presbyterian Church
Liz Liston McCarty, Secretary
Vice President, Strategic Philanthropy – US Soccer
Alex J. Murphy
Associate – Jones Day
Erin Payne
Associate General Counsel – CRH Americas Law Group
Paul Reeve
Senior Director, Legal – UPS
Terry Walsh, Chair Emeritus
Partner – Alston & Bird (Retired)
Dustin Weeks
Partner – Troutman Pepper
Student advocacy is a community-wide effort. We’re grateful to have these partners by our side!
We changed our name and branding in 2026 to reflect our broadening mission and emphasis on removing barriers and preventing absenteeism—not just intervening in truancy cases. Learn more about the change here.
Yes, we are open to partnerships with schools, educators, legal professionals, and community organizations. Please contact us for more information about collaboration opportunities.
Looking for legal assistance, to get involved with our mission, or to connect with our team? Start here.
