The Arc of Howard County Selects New Executive

The Arc of Howard County has selected Cindy Parr, Executive Director of Human Services Programs of Carroll County, Inc., as its new Executive Director, according to Ed Wilson, President of The Arc of Howard County Board of Directors. The Arc provides programs and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

A search committee including non-profit and business professionals, board members and staff, a self advocate and an executive director of another The Arc was unanimous in its recommendation of Parr, and the board concurred with the choice, according to Wilson.

“Cindy brings a well-rounded background and passion for non-profit service to this role,” Wilson said. “I have no doubt she will be an outstanding leader and an effective advocate for the I/DD community as well as the positive face of The Arc of Howard County for years to come. We are excited for her to lead our organization into its next era,” he added.

Parr has 25 years of experience in operations management, personnel administration and communications. Since 2011, she has been leader of Carroll County’s community action agency serving at risk and low income residents. Previously, she worked as Director of Administrative Services for Carroll County Government. She has a BS degree in Mass Communications from Towson University.

“I am looking forward to working with The Arc’s dedicated and committed staff, and helping to enhance an already strong organization,” Parr said. Employment services and supportive housing are of special interest, she added, noting already established relationships with county and state officials will be helpful in future efforts on behalf of those programs.

Parr replaces long-time Executive Director Carol A. Beatty who left in late February to accept a position in Governor Larry Hogan’s cabinet as Secretary for the Maryland Department of Disabilities. She had served as The Arc’s leader since 1993.

Since Beatty’s departure Susan Haynes has been serving as Acting Executive Director. She will return to her post as Associate Executive Director of Administration when Parr joins the The Arc in July.

Since its inception in 1961, The Arc has become one of Howard County’s largest employers, with more than 300 staff members and hundreds of volunteers working to achieve full community life for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It provides a range of residential, employment and day services and family support services. For information, visit www.archoward.org.