Our
Mission, Purpose & Vision
The Arc Macon supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to lead meaningful and dignified lives through community integration and inclusion.
The Arc Macon’s purpose is to provide people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) the life skills and environment to live as independently as possible.
To see people with IDD engage and contribute to their community meaningfully.
Our Core Values: The Arc ROCCS
Resources: We connect people to the resources they need to attain their highest level of independence regardless of diagnosis, and at all stages of life.
Ownership: We demonstrate a deep commitment to the people we serve and our community by being good stewards of The Arc’s resources and accepting personal accountability in all that we do.
Choice: People with IDD should be supported to make decisions about their lives.
Community: Everyone has the right to be valued and contribute to our greater community.
Support: Our team of caring and motivated staff provides support to others to help them reach their personal goals.
Our Executive Staff

Katrina Pirkle, MHSA
President and CEO, DDP
(478) 803-1470
kpirkle@thearcmacon.org
About Katrina
Katrina Pirkle is the President and CEO of The Arc Macon, where she has led the organization since 2015. In this role, she oversees operations, strategic growth, and the expansion of innovative, person-centered services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Middle Georgia.
Katrina brings a diverse professional background spanning both healthcare and for-profit sectors. Prior to joining The Arc Macon, she served Veterans and older adults nationwide for more than eight years as a Veterans Affairs Accredited Claims Agent. She holds a Master’s degree in Health Services Administration from the University of Central Florida.
A committed community leader, Katrina is a graduate of Leadership Macon (2017) and has been actively involved in organizations that support professional development and regional collaboration, including the Career Women’s Network of Macon, Atrium Health Navicent’s NextGen Advisory Council, and The Junior League of Macon.
Katrina’s passion for advocacy is deeply personal. Inspired by her grandfather’s legacy as Director Emeritus of The Arc Baltimore and her aunt Marcia, who had Down syndrome, she has long been committed to advancing opportunities for individuals with disabilities. She is dedicated to leading The Arc Macon in building a more inclusive community where every person is valued and empowered to thrive.
Outside of her professional work, Katrina enjoys painting, hiking, and practicing yoga. She lives in Macon with her husband and remains deeply connected to the community she serves.

Alleyne Benson, MSCC
Executive Assistant
(478) 477-7764
abenson@thearcmacon.org
About Alleyne
As the Executive Assistant for The Arc Macon, Alleyne specializes in high-level administrative support across the agency, calendar and event coordination, and operational efficiency. She is a trusted team member to leadership, known for discretion, adaptability, and proactive problem-solving. Prior to joining The Arc Macon team in 2018, she brought nearly a decade of experience in Adult and Child Protective Services, along with her work with United Cerebral Palsy. Her professional background reflects a strong commitment to advocacy, service, and supporting vulnerable populations. She holds a Master of Science in Community Counseling from Georgia State University. She finds purpose in supporting her coworkers and the individuals served by the agency, taking pride in contributing to a positive and efficient work environment. Outside of work, she values spending time with her family, which remains her top priority.

Eileen Harris
Director, Bleckley County Services
(478) 787-2230
eharris@thearcmacon.org
About Eileen
Eileen was born in Savannah, Ga. She has lived most of her adult life in Macon with her daughter, Keiawana. She graduated from Northeast High School and furthered her education at Central Georgia Technical College. Eileen is a member of St. Mark Baptist Church where she is an active member of the choir.
Eileen began her employment with The Arc Macon in 1986. She has worked in many capacities over the years as a dedicated employee. The latest is serving as Director for The Arc in Cochran. Eileen was awarded employee of the year in 2007. She is also the instructor for the Defensive Driving, CPR, and First Aid classes. She is a graduate of the Direct Support Professional Program and enjoys fishing, traveling, cooking, and spending time with friends and family.

ZaShica Brown
Residential Director & Case Manager, DSP
(478) 803-1459
ksmith@thearcmacon.org
About ZaShica
ZaShica Brown serves as Residential Director and Case Manager at The Arc Macon, where she oversees residential services and supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in living fulfilling, independent lives. She began her journey with the organization in 2011 and has grown into a leadership role through hands-on experience and dedication.
ZaShica holds a DSP III certification and a diploma in Business Administration from Central Georgia Tech. She is passionate about creating safe, structured environments and empowering both the individuals she supports and the staff she leads. She is especially driven by seeing growth, confidence, and progress in others.
Outside of work, ZaShica enjoys planning events and creating meaningful experiences that bring women together.

David A. Vails, MBA
Finance Director
(478) 803-1458
dvails@thearcmacon.org
About David
David Vails serves as Finance Director at The Arc Macon, where he leads the finance team and oversees all internal and external financial reporting. His responsibilities include payroll processing and reporting, revenue recognition, and coordination with independent auditors. He joined the organization in June 2023. David brings more than 15 years of finance and accounting experience, including five years in a similar role with an organization supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and a Master’s degree in Management from Niagara University. David is passionate about supporting individuals with disabilities in living as independently and fully as possible. Outside of work, he enjoys walking with his wife, reading, spending time with his family, and lifelong learning.

Debi Sharpe, AS
Human Resources Director
(478) 803-1462
dsharpe@thearcmacon.org
About Debi
Debi serves as the Human Resources Director at The Arc Macon, joining the organization in 2018 with over 25 years of experience in Finance, Accounting, and Human Resources. In her role, she oversees HR operations, billing compliance, and serves as a HUD Management Occupancy Specialist. Debi holds an Associate’s degree in Business Administration from Coastal Georgia College and is an active member of SHRM, the Georgia Center for Nonprofits, and an ADP Ambassador. She is passionate about helping others grow and fostering a supportive workplace. Outside of work, Debi enjoys traveling, cheering for the Atlanta Braves and Georgia football, but most of all spending time with her family, especially her granddaughter.

Rhonda Newell
Lead Activity Coordinator, DSP
(478) 803-1457
rnewell@thearcmacon.org
About Rhonda
Rhonda supports individuals and staff by coordinating community-based services and leading The Arc Macon’s annual Summer Camp. She joined the organization in 2009 as an Accounts Payable Clerk, bringing a background in accounting and administrative support. Her introduction to the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities came through a family member, inspiring her long-standing commitment to The Arc’s mission. Rhonda is motivated each day by the joy and connection she experiences with the individuals she supports, whether in the office or out in the community. Outside of work, she enjoys playing softball, bowling, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Lisa Roitzsch, MS
Quality Improvement/Risk Management Coordinator, DDP
(478) 803-1468
lroitzsch@thearcmacon.org

Mollye Smith, RN
Agency Nurse, LPN Supervisor, DDP
(478) 803-1465
msmithrn@thearcmacon.org
Our Board of Directors
Stephanie McRae
Chair
Laney Hogan
Vice Chair
Bailey Eberhardt
Treasurer
Chief Brenda Thomas
Secretary
Sonja Johnson
Past Chair
Dr. David Biek
Jan Clark
Kristen Grissom
Becky Harmon
Pam Nichols
Sara Whitby


