Arc of the Ozarks names new leader

The Arc of the Ozarks has promoted from within to fill its top post.

Mike Powers, the nonprofit's current executive vice president who has 21 years experience with the organization, starts Jan. 1 as president and CEO. He succeeds John Foley, who is scheduled to retire in April. Foley was promoted to lead Arc of the Ozarks in September 2008 after 16 years working with the organization.

Foley and Powers have contributed to the growth of the organization during the past two decades. Arc of the Ozarks, which aids the developmentally disabled, now claims more than 800 clients with a budget of $33 million, according to a news release. It was incorporated as a nonprofit in 1964.

“Mike knows this business and is well respected by local and state officials involved with supporting individuals with developmental disabilities," Arc of the Ozarks board Chairman Joe Johnson said in the release. "The leadership shown by John Foley and Mike Powers has resulted in the highest level of client services.”