March 11, 2024

Columbia, S.C. – Mirci (Mental Illness Recovery Center, Inc.), a leading organization dedicated to addressing mental illness, proudly announces the appointment of new board leaders and a Chief Operating Officer to steer the organization towards greater impact and growth.

Joining Mirci's esteemed board of directors are Lucy Easler Ph.D. as Chair, Shannon Tallent as Vice Chair, and Debbie Hamm Ph.D. as Immediate Past Chair.

Dr. Lucy Easler, a psychiatric-mental health nurse and Director of Behavioral Care Services for Prisma Health-Midlands, brings a deep commitment to Mirci's mission. "We are not all dealt the same hand at birth," said Dr. Easler. "We may not be able to swap out all the cards, but we can equip individuals with the skills they desire and the support they need to live their best lives. I look forward to leveraging our community partners, supporters, and volunteers who-along with our Mirci team members-share the desire to make a difference for the people and families we serve."

Shannon Tallent, a seasoned HR professional, has served on Mirci’s board for 8 years. "I serve on the Mirci board because of the huge impact it makes in the lives of individuals experiencing mental illness and unstable housing" said Tallent. "Over the next few years, I look forward to seeing the impact the new female-identifying youth home will bring to our community.”

In addition, Mirci is thrilled to welcome Ti Barnes as its new Chief Operating Officer. Barnes, former Executive Director of Bowers-Rodgers Children’s Home in Greenwood, led a dedicated team in providing comprehensive support services for abused and neglected children. He brings extensive experience in strategic planning, fundraising, and program development, having successfully optimized operations in his previous roles.

"As COO of Mirci, I am committed to ensuring that our services are a catalyst for healing, offering recovery and empowerment for those we serve," said Barnes. "Together, we’re crafting a future where support is a given, recovery is achievable, and every individual’s mental health journey is valued."

"Mirci continues to benefit from the leadership of talented community volunteers alongside its professional leadership team," says Julie Ann Avin, Mirci CEO. "With the new Board leadership and addition of Ti Barnes as Chief Operating Officer, Mirci is well positioned to continue upholding mental health in the Midlands."

Mental Illness Recovery Center, Inc. (Mirci) provides behavioral healthcare, outreach services and affordable housing for people who are vulnerable to the adverse consequences of mental illness. Mirci hosts the only CARF accredited Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) program in South Carolina, providing evidence-based, person-centered behavioral healthcare to those not successfully served by traditional outpatient treatment. Mirci’s vision is to be the place where people can find a way forward. It is a 501(c)3 nonprofit.