The Arc of Southeast Iowa has appointed Karen DeGroot as its new president.

The Arc of Southeast Iowa is a nonprofit agency committed to offering information and advocacy in Iowa City and the rest of Johnson County for individuals with developmental disabilities.

DeGroot has been associated with the agency for about 11 years and has been the vice president for operations for the past seven years.

“I feel very honored,” she said. “They do some amazingly wonderful things. We have a strong history of really wonderful leaders.”

DeGroot is replacing the agency’s former president, Bill Reagan, who unexpectedly passed away on July 8.

DeGroot studied business at the University of Iowa and graduated with a degree in finance.

She said working for the agency was not originally where she thought her career path would taker her but she has had great experiences since joining their staff.

“Definitely it’s been a positive experience,” she said. “I really feel like I’m making a difference every day.”

— by Cassidy Riley