ARC OF MONROE ANNOUNCES NEW LEADERSHIP TO SUCCEED RETIRING CEO

After an extensive and thorough search, the Board of Directors have appointed a new CEO

ROCHESTER, NY (September 8, 2008) - After an extensive and thorough search by an appointed search committee lead by Mary Beth Wunsch, Chairman of the Board, the Board of Directors of The Arc of Monroe County is proud to announce that Barbara Wale has been selected as the new CEO and president of the Arc of Monroe County,. Jim Mroczek the current CEO and president, is retiring as of November 1, 2008; at that time Wale will begin her duties as the new CEO.

The search extended regionally and nationally, but the most experienced candidate came from home,” said Wunsch.” “We have experienced amazing growth and social strides under the leadership of Jim Mroczek, and we are confident and looking forward to this continued success under Barbara’s leadership.”

Wale, a 30-year veteran of the Arc of Monroe County, began her career with the Arc as a Speech/Language Pathologist and served as Director of Clinical Services. Wale moved up to Chief of Service and created one of the Day Service Programs, opening the South-West site. She has spent the last 10 years serving as Chief Operating Officer.

“I am thrilled to be given this opportunity,” said Wale. “I’m excited to combine my vision with what I have learned under Jim’s leadership in continuing the growth and success of the Arc. I see the Arc igniting the Rochester community in embracing true social inclusion, where all people can live, work, volunteer and play as genuine and valued members of this community.”

Wale will succeed current President, Jim Mroczek who has served the Arc of Monroe for 35 years, 29 years as CEO and president. In that time the Arc has grown to 1,000 full and part-time staff and the operating budget has grown from $1.5 million in 1979 to more than $37 million this year.

Wale holds a Masters Degree in Communication Disorders as well as an MBA. Apart from the Arc, she has consulted IMC (Industrial Management Council) and worked with other organizations in strategic planning. Wale volunteers with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and the American Red Cross as a monthly plasma donor for the benefit of chemotherapy patients. Wale also enjoys quilting.

About The Arc of Monroe County

For more than 50 years, The Arc of Monroe County has been working with and for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. The Arc offers a variety of services designed to increase independence and self-sufficiency, and enhance the quality of life and self-esteem of program participants by providing them with meaningful social development, employment, community living, and enrichment opportunities. For more information about The Arc of Monroe County and its programs, call 585-271-0660.