Nikki Owen – Executive Director

Nikki has over 30 years of combined experience with our agency having first started with us in October 1994. Since this time, Nikki has provided supports and services to vulnerable adults and ensured the safety of children in Okaloosa, Walton and Santa Rosa Counties in her variety of capacities with us. In her previous role, Nikki diligently ensured our programs operated 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 is a graduate of Leadership Okaloosa class of 2016-2017.
Among her management activities, Nikki is highly active in fundraising efforts that support our agency. Nikki earned her A.A. from Okaloosa-Walton Community College in 1994, and is a graduate of the University of West Florida receiving her 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. Matt and his wife Jessica live in Navarre and are proud parents of 12yr. old Milly May and 9yr. old Sam.

Debbie Smith – The 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.

Claudia Laboy – Residential Habilitation Sr. Manager

Claudia joined The Arc of the Emerald Coast in July of 2024 after moving to the area from New York.  Claudia has worked in the Human Services field for 28 years.  At the start of her career, she worked with emotionally disturbed adolescent children at The Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie for 14 years and started working for The Arc Greater Hudson Valley in New York State in 2011. Claudia prides herself in leading an effective team of Group Home managers and direct support professionals. Claudia, along with her team, ensures that the clients supported live in a safe, clean and nurturing environment.  Claudia’s team of Group Home managers also ensures that policies, procedures and regulations are all adhered to within the homes.
Claudia enjoys cooking a variety of dishes from different cultures and loves the beach and sitting by the ocean.  Claudia has 2 adult sons, Matt and Wesley, that still reside in New York State and a grandson, Oliver.  Claudia lives in Fort Walton Beach with her fiancé Johnathan and stepdaughter Alayna.

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.