The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc), a nonprofit committed to transforming lives for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and Board Chair Laura Austin, announced today that Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO, was awarded the 2020 Rising Star award from the National Conference of Executives (NCE).
The Rising Star is part of NCE’s Distinguished Professional Award series, presented annually at The Arc US’s Convention in October. This award recognizes an executive from The Arc US chapter network in their first five years of leadership who have made substantial contributions to their chapters and communities.
Since joining The Arc three years ago, Rondeau has transformed the organization, bringing a clear vision to The Arc’s operations, and overseeing the development and implementation of a strategic plan that included aggressive growth in services and infrastructure.
“I am thrilled to share that Jonathon has won the 2020 Rising Star award,” said Board Chair, Laura Austin. “Since he started in 2017, The Arc is in a very different place. Jonathon has used his tenacity, decisiveness, and creativity to grow and strengthen The Arc community. His authenticity has fostered an open and encouraging environment, where people are confident and comfortable in their ability to innovate. His thoughtfulness on how The Arc approaches services has made the people we support feel like valued members of the community. And, his work ethic has inspired his colleagues to continue to find passion in their work every day.”
Rondeau was recognized in particular for his leadership through the COVID-19 pandemic. “I could go on and on about the ways Jonathon has impacted The Arc, but none is more evident than his leadership through this pandemic,” Austin said. “Our community is facing unprecedented challenges and disproportionate effects from this virus. With the decisiveness and thoughtfulness that is his trademark, Jonathon took early action and has done everything possible to ensure that The Arc comes out of this strong.”
Rondeau is in his third year as President & CEO and brings nearly 20 years of experience providing leadership across diverse organizations to create opportunities for self-sufficiency and independence for people with disabilities and those traditionally underserved.