Martha Haythorn is a driven and compassionate 25-year-old woman with Down syndrome who symbolizes hope and inspiration. After graduating from the EXCEL Program at Georgia Tech—an innovative four-year college program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD)—she earned two certificates while studying Public Policy. As a passionate advocate for her community, Haythorn is proud to be an alumna of the Georgia Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (GaLEND), a university program at the Center for Leadership in Disability at Georgia State University.
This past summer, she was honored to be appointed by Governor Brian Kemp to the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities, where she serves as a council member and actively contributes to the Public Policy Committee. In addition, Haythorn is involved with Best Buddies Georgia, attending social events and nurturing connections within the I/DD community.
With a lifelong passion for advocacy, Haythorn channels her dedication into organizing social programming for YMCA members with developmental disabilities in Decatur, making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Haythorn also participates actively in the Special Olympics, where she competes in swimming.
State Senator Billy Hickman successfully implemented the Georgia as a Model Employer (GAME) Program, which the Senate passed during the 2024 Legislative Session. Haythorn was hired as a Special Operations Assistant. Her hiring is the first placement under the GAME Program within the Georgia Senate during the 2025 Legislative session.
“Her work exemplifies the value individuals with disabilities bring to the workplace,” Hickman said. “The State of Georgia is leading by example in supporting the recruitment and retention of individuals with disabilities. I hope this initiative will inspire similar efforts across our private business sectors.”
View Full Article
Photo credit: Ruby Rainbow
