Melissa Rogers
Acting Chief Executive Officer

Missy has been working in the field of developmental disabilities since 1997.  Throughout her career she has performed in a variety of roles including direct care, case management, fundraising and administration.  Her extensive knowledge base and experience allows her a unique perspective and understanding of issues facing the disabled community.  Missy’s passion and dedication can be felt in her decision-making process as she always puts the best interests of those being served by the agency first.  In her spare time, she can be seen acting with a local dinner theater acting troupe. Missy holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Elon University in North Carolina and is originally from Virginia.

Debbie-SmithDebbie Smith
Children’s Center Director

Debbie has worked at Horizons since April 1992. She was appointed as Director of the Children’s Center in May 2003. She is married and the mother of two and the grandmother of six. She feels a strong commitment to the children she serves. She believes that every child should be able to access child care.  Debbie earned her B.S. in Early Childhood Education and holds a Childcare Director’s Credential.

Nikki Owen
Executive Director

Nikki first joined The Arc of the Emerald Coast in October 1994.  Since that time, she has been providing supports and services to vulnerable adults and ensuring the safety of children in Okaloosa, Walton, and Santa Rosa Counties in a variety of capacities.  In her current position, Nikki diligently ensures that programs operate in accordance with all rules, laws, handbooks, and requirements of governing and accreditation bodies.  Nikki is certified by Professional Education Services, Inc. as an instructor for Therapeutic Alternatives in Crisis Training and completed Leadership Okaloosa as a member of the 2016-2017 class.  She is active in fundraising activities supporting The Arc of the Emerald Coast.  Nikki earned her A.A. from Okaloosa-Walton Community College in 1994, then graduated from the University of West Florida with a B.A. in Criminal Justice/Psychology in 2003.  She and her husband Gregg reside in Crestview and are the proud parents of twin daughters and two sons.

Matt Simpson
Marketing and Public Relations Director

Matt leads the development efforts by executing strategic marketing initiatives to increase awareness, engagement, and support for our organization. In addition, Matt oversees fundraising events, community relations, branding and implementation of social media platforms to highlight the programs and services provided by our agency. Matt is a graduate of Auburn University where he obtained a B.A. in Public Relations in 2006. Matt carries with him a 14-year career in sales and 5 years of service in the non-profit sector. Matt is a life-long resident of the FWB area and enjoys living and serving in this community and representing the wonderful clients of The Arc.

Renee Autry
Behavior Services Clinical Director

Renee joined our team in 2017. She is the Clinical Director and is responsible for behavior analytic support services.  She has an extensive background in working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Renee started her career as a Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional in Mobile, Alabama at a day program in 1998.  She has worked in multiple areas of service from schools to residential homes.  Renee graduated with an M.S. in Community Counseling from The University of South Alabama in 2000.  In 2007, Renee became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and has worked as a BCBA ever since.  Renee’s hobbies include her participation in a Mardi Gras society, activities with her children, and exercise.