The St. Louis Arc is guided by the Executive Staff which consists of our President and CEO, five vice-presidents, and 21 directors. Each member of the Executive Staff represents the core beliefs of the agency: respect, empowerment, and collaboration.
Executive Staff
Mark A. Keeley
President and CEO
Mark A. Keeley has been an advocate for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities for over 40 years. He joined the St. Louis Arc in 1989 as Assistant Director of Residential Services. In 1995, Mark designed the agency’s current family reimbursement respite model, which has grown to be one of the largest in the country in terms of number of families served and hours of respite accessed. In 2006, Mark was promoted to Vice President of Support Services and oversaw Children’s Services, Family Support, Leisure, Employment Services and Quality Enhancement. During his time as Vice President, he helped facilitate the merger with the Belle Center in 2012 to form the Belle Children’s Services of the St. Louis Arc. Mark became President and CEO of the St. Louis Arc in July 2015. In 2021, Mark received the Executive Excellence award from the Arc of the US National Conference of Executives in recognition of his leadership. A licensed clinical social worker, he holds a master’s degree in Social Work from the George Warren Brown School of Social Work at Washington University.
Megan Favazza
Vice President of Adult Day and Employment Services
Megan Favazza oversees the Arc’s Adult Day services, as well as Adult ABA services and the Supported Employment programs. Megan joined the Arc in 2004 as a direct support professional in the Arc’s North County CE site before being promoted to coordinator and then to director. She serves as the chair of the Day Services Committee at the Missouri Association of Rehabilitation Facilities (MARF) and is recognized on the state level as a tremendous leader and advocate. Megan holds a bachelor’s degree from New York University in community-based theatre with master’s classes in special education from Hunter University.
Sherry Grodner
Vice President of Human Resources
Sherry Grodner served in Human Resources leadership roles in private and public sector organizations prior to joining St. Louis Arc in 2019 as Director of Human Resources. As Vice President, Sherry oversees the Human Resources partnership with agency leadership and employees, to guide the agency’s people strategies including talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, engagement, retention, and leadership development. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Tulane University and a Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) from Louisiana State University.
Katharine Rug
Vice President of Residential and Medical Services
Katharine “Kate” Rug started at the St. Louis Arc in 2013 as an employment specialist in the employment services department. In 2018, she accepted the role of Director of Nutrition Services and Project Management, launching the St. Louis Arc’s Nutrition Center. Kate oversaw all nutritional programming and the electronic health record system in her most recent role. Kate is a registered dietitian and holds a Master of Science in Medical Dietetics from Saint Louis University and a Bachelor of Arts in Neuroscience and Psychology from Knox College. Kate has served on the Board of Directors at Behavioral Health Nutrition Practice Group, a dietetic practice group within the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. She is also a member of the Missouri Disability and Health Collaborative.
Stephanie Scott
Vice President of Support Services and Strategy
Stephanie Scott oversees Support Services at the St. Louis Arc, including efforts to improve quality of services and strategic planning. Stephanie joined the St. Louis Arc in 2010 as the Coordinator of Quality Enhancement, and in 2019 began overseeing staff training and development. She has worked to build capacity for internal evaluation and achieve the highest level of accreditation with CQL. In 2014, Stephanie was recognized as one of ANCOR’s Emerging Leaders. She holds a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Missouri St. Louis, and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2015.
John Taylor
Vice President of Advancement
John Taylor served in various fund raising and marketing capacities for the St. Louis Arc since joining the agency in 1991. Prior to accepting his current position he served as the Arc’s Director of Development and Communications, and as Chief Development Officer of the YWCA Metro St. Louis. A Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), John holds a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from New York University and is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, the St. Louis Planned Giving Council, and the Community Service Public Relations Council.
Directors Group
Sandy Vandaveer-Irwin (Anderson)
Director of Family Support
Sandy oversees the ARCH Respite and Family Navigation programs within the Family Support Department. Her most previous experience includes Early Childhood Program Manager for the Delta Gamma Center for Children with Visual Impairments, Early Literacy Coordinator for the St. Louis County Libraries and a former Early Childhood Special Education Teacher. Sandy holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, a master’s degree in Special Education, and a Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies. She is also a Board Member for the Non-Profit Eye Thrive which provides essential vision services and eyeglasses to children throughout the St. Louis area.
Jen Bender
Director of Nursing
Jen manages the nursing staff, coordinating with families, agency departments, community agencies, and the state of Missouri to provide high quality medical care to participants in the Arc’s Residential and Community Engagement programs. Additionally, she facilitates continuing education for nursing staff and provides ongoing education for St. Louis Arc staff on medical issues and protocols. Previously, Jen was a staff medical surgical nurse at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. She also has a background providing natural support, direct support, leisure support, and job coaching to people with IDD. Jen earned her Associate of Science in Nursing degree from St. Louis Community College Forest Park and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Central Methodist University.
Alysha Broughton
Director of Nutrition
Alysha oversees the Nutrition Center at Dautel, working with Residential teams and kitchen staff to deliver hundreds of healthy and enjoyable meals to our residents each week. Beginning in 2019, she collaborated closely with residents, support managers, and agency leadership to create an in-home meal preparation program improving resident health outcomes while also decreasing staff support time related to grocery shopping and meal preparation. These efforts resulted in the opening of the Nutrition Center at Dautel in 2022. She also serves as Facilitator of the READI (Race, Equity, Access, Diversity and Inclusion) Committee. Alysha holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Alabama and bachelor’s degree in Culinary Management from the Art Institute of Saint Louis, a Certificate in Dietetics from Saint Louis University’s didactic program and a Master’s degree in Health Advancement and Promotion from Fontbonne University. She became a registered dietitian in June 2024.
Tammy Childress
Director of Finance
Tammy is a certified public accountant with many years of experience working for the State of Missouri. During her time with the State, she worked with the Department of Revenue, Office of Administration, and the Department of Social Services. In Tammy’s previous roles, she worked to streamline key functions for the State such as payroll processing and Medicaid reporting. With the Arc, Tammy’s primary focus is on the processes that tie financial functions and people together. Tammy holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Accounting from Oakland City University in Indiana.
Libby Eversgerd
Director of Transition Services
Libby Eversgerd joined the St. Louis Arc in September, 2022 as the Director of Transition Services. She comes to the Arc with 28 years of experience as a social worker. For over 25 years Libby worked in various capacities within the foster care system, in both public and private child welfare agencies. Most recently she oversaw programs at a non-profit organization that provided support and connection to young, first-time parents as well as families with multiple children. She holds a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Missouri St. Louis, is a LMSW, and is currently working on her clinical licensure as a LCSW.
Nancy Fortune
Director of Residential Compliance
Nancy Fortune joined the St. Louis in 1986 as a direct support professional. In her tenure at the St. Louis Arc, Nancy served as a support manager and has more than ten years experience as a residential coordinator. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Southeast Missouri State University and has completed graduate classes at Lindenwood and Webster University.
Jessica Gantner
Director of Operations
Jessica Gantner has been with the St. Louis Arc for 13 years. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Music Therapy from Maryville University. Jessica spent her first five years at the Arc in Residential Services before moving to Day Services. In her most recent role as Assistant Director of Day Services, she made significant contributions to the organization and the community it serves. Jessica played a pivotal role in the Aging With Empowerment programs short- and long-term operations. With a comprehensive understanding of the organizations needs, Jessica has taken the position of Director of Operations, where she will leverage her skills to address facility, transportation, and infrastructure requirements. As a liaison for recent renovation and facility needs involving Day Services, Jessica’s experience and expertise in managing such projects will help to optimize these resources to benefit the people supported, staff, and various programs.
Kate Hannon
Senior Director of Belle Children’s Services
Kate Hannon began working with Belle in 1989 as an Early Childhood Special Education teacher, and has served in a variety of capacities, including Classroom Teacher, Developmental Therapist and Executive Director. As Program Director of the new Belle Children’s Services of St. Louis Arc, Kate manages the daily operations of our Embedded Early Learning Programs, and oversees our teaching staff. She has her degree in Special Education and Education, K-12. In addition, she is certified in areas of Learning Disabilities and Early Childhood Special Education, and she provides special instruction services and evaluations through the Missouri First Steps program. Kate also partners with a wide variety of community organizations in advocacy, inclusive practices, and curriculum.
Rhonda Hembree
Director of Leisure Services
Rhonda Hembree has more than 24 years of experience in providing services and supports that help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities become actively involved in their community through leisure, recreation and volunteerism activities. For 16 years, Rhonda served as St. Louis Arc’s Assistant Director of Leisure Services, and supervised a full range of recreation, leisure, and transition programs for youth and adults in the community. Rhonda holds a B.S. in Recreation and Leisure Studies, with an emphasis in Therapeutic Recreation, from Missouri State. She also has an M.S. in Recreation Administration from Western Illinois University. Rhonda has been a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, and has served as a member on the board of Missouri Parks and Recreation Association (MPRA), and as the board president and secretary of the Missouri Therapeutic Recreation Society (MTRS) in 2003 and 2004.
Brian Hubler
Director of Employment and Transition Services
Brian Hubler oversees the agency’s employment department, which includes helping people with developmental disabilities obtain and maintain employment within the community. His staff provides job coaches to assist individuals in learning job skills, interview skills, resume writing, job applications and social skills. In addition, Brian works with local school districts to promote transition planning for students with developmental disabilities after graduation. Brian holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Central Methodist College in Fayette, MO. He joined the St. Louis Arc in 2008 from Human Support Services in Waterloo, Ill., where he served as Day Training, Work Services Director for four years. Within that role, Brian oversaw four programs that improved the vocational and daily living skills of people with mental illnesses and/or developmental disabilities.
Georgia Kuss
Director of Quality Enhancement and Training
Georgia Kuss began with the Arc in 2015, first serving as a direct support professional in residential services and then as a manager in day programs. Previously, she has worked as a researcher at Boston Children’s Hospital, a camp counselor for persons with disabilities in Ohio and Wisconsin, and a social worker with St. Louis area schools. In her current role, Georgia works with her team to design, implement, and evaluate staff trainings. She also coordinates the Arcs accreditation process and collaborates with other departments to develop meaningful quality metrics. Georgia has an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Kenyon College and dual master’s degrees in Social Work and Public Health from Washington University in St. Louis. She became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2020.
Lauren Lintzenich
Director of Community Residential
Lauren Lintzenich began her career with the Arc in 2015 as a Support Manager in Residential Services. She then became a Residential Coordinator before her promotion to Director of Community Residential. Lauren holds her bachelor’s in educational studies from Webster University. Lauren found her passion in the residential field when working as a private Direct Support Professional with families that used self-directed supports during her college years.
Jackie Magoc
Director of Day Services
Jackie Magoc joined the St. Louis Arc in 2013 as a direct care professional. In her tenure at the St. Louis Arc, Jackie has served in a variety of capacities in both the day services and residential departments at the St. Louis Arc. As Director of Day Services, Jackie will oversee the implementation of the nine day services programs including Community Engagement, Aging With Empowerment, and LIFT. Jackie holds a bachelor’s in Social Work from Saint Louis University, and a master’s degree in Social Work with an emphasis in Health and Behavioral Health from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. While completing both degrees, Jackie completed practicums in the Family Support and Quality Departments at the Arc.
Beth Moeller
Sr. Director of Transition and Community Living
Beth Moeller has been with the St. Louis Arc since 1990. Beth oversees the CONNECT program, which is geared for individuals who require a limited amount of support, but would like help connecting to social, educational and recreational opportunities in their community. Prior to becoming a Director, Beth served as a Residential Coordinator for the Arc. Beth earned her master’s degree in Teaching from Washington University and is a trained life coach from the Institute for Life Coach Training.
Victoria Parres
Director of Information Technology
Victoria Parres joined the St. Louis Arc in 2008 bringing more than 15 years of experience in accounting and business management. Vicky previously served in various capacities, including Corporate Controller, for J.W. Terrill where she developed and implemented strategic plans, automated operations, and streamlined processes. A graduate of Saint Louis University, Vicky holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management with an emphasis in Accounting.
Kathleen A. Schue
Director of Communications and PR
Kathleen Schue oversees the Arc’s communication and public relations strategy and planning. She began her career in publishing, graphic design, marketing and communications in the private sector before moving to the non-profit world. Kathleen has an extensive background in development, fundraising, events, and communications. Kathleen received her bachelor’s degree in Fine & Performing Arts and Communications (double major) from Saint Louis University, and her MBA through the Olin Business School’s EMBA program at Washington University in St. Louis.
Sharon Spurlock
Senior Director of Family Education
Sharon Spurlock has worked with people with developmental disabilities since 1982. She worked in residential supports and employment services and oversaw the St. Louis Arc’s Community Integration programs for 19 years prior to moving into Family Support. Sharon is recognized as an expert in person-centered philosophy and advocacy. Sharon’s passion is helping people with disabilities and their families find great supports in the community. She began her job directing St. Louis Arc’s family support services in 2008, before moving into her role as Senior Director of Family Education in 2023.
Craig Strohbeck
Director of Residential Services Dautel Circle
Craig Strohbeck oversees Residential Services at Dautel Circle. His background includes strategic planning, program development, person-centered outcomes/evaluation, and staff coaching. Craig has his B.S. in Recreation and Park Administration from Illinois State University, and is also a certified therapeutic recreation specialist. In addition, Craig also gives his time to the following organizations: Missouri Board of Healing Arts, Advisory Commission on Speech/Language Pathology and Audiology; Therapeutic Recreation Association of Greater St. Louis, and St. Charles County Coalition of Service Providers.
Holly Swift
Director of Development
Welcome back to Holly Swift who has returned to the Arc as Director of Development. Holly originally joined the Arc during the Belle merger and served as Development Director from 2012-2014. In the intervening 9 years Holly has worked as Executive Director of Our Community Listens, as an independent consultant, and most recently as Director of Development for the Jewish Community Center. Holly will be working as Development Director on a contractor basis with primary focus on establishing a robust donor cultivation process, growing our major gifts program, and launching an endowment marketing plan. Holly has a Bachelor of Arts (English) and a Master’s in Nonprofit Management, both from Washington University.
Mary Anne Tolliver
Director of Aging Services
Mary Anne Tolliver joined the Arc in 1984 as a direct support professional. Fifteen years later she was named to her current role, where she supervises the St. Louis Arcs Dautel Circle. Mary Anne holds a master’s degree in Public Administration from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. She is area representative for the Missouri chapter of the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR) as well as the committee chair for the St. Louis area (SLANCOR). A national speaker on end of life care, Mary Anne has completed certification with the National Task Group on Intellectual Disabilities and Dementia Practices for Dementia Capable Care of Adults with ID and Dementia.
Dana Walker
Director of Children’s Services
In her current role, Dana manages Children’s Services, including Capable Kids and Families (CKF), Parents Learning Together (PLT), and The Embedded Site Leader model within community settings. In addition to supporting the Children’s Services staff, she is an active member of the Family Supports Team. Dana’s previous experience includes Child Life Specialist, Developmental Therapist, Site Leader, and Early Childhood Program Coordinator in a variety of settings. Dana holds her Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies-Child Life from University of Missouri-Columbia and her Master of Science in Community Counseling from University of Memphis. She is also a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) and Certified Educator of Infant Massage (CEIM).