Ability Plus Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ability Plus has 4 executives leading key functions including organizational strategy, operational management, financial oversight, and administrative governance.

Committed to fostering independence for individuals with disabilities, Ability Plus delivers essential residential, vocational, and community-based services to ensure every client achieves personal fulfillment and meaningful social connection.

Leadership Roles at Ability Plus

  • Chief Executive Officer & President & Executive Director - Karockas Watkins
  • Chief Financial Officer - Melissa Dean
  • Chief Operating Officer - Marcie Watkins
  • Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) - Audra Watkins
  • Karockas Watkins - Chief Executive Officer & President & Executive Director

    Karockas Watkins, the Chief Executive Officer & President & Executive Director at Ability Plus, directs the overarching mission to empower individuals with disabilities through comprehensive support services. Overseeing the strategic vision, the Chief Executive Officer & President & Executive Director ensures that residential housing, day habilitation, and job coaching programs maintain high standards of care and safety. Karockas Watkins architects long-term growth initiatives while fostering partnerships with community stakeholders to expand service reach across the region. By aligning organizational resources with the needs of clients, the Chief Executive Officer & President & Executive Director drives the development of inclusive environments that promote independence and skill acquisition. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to secure necessary funding and community support. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer & President & Executive Director secures the sustainability of vital programs, ensuring that every individual receives the necessary tools to achieve personal dreams and live a fulfilling life.

    Melissa Dean - Chief Financial Officer

    Melissa Dean, the Chief Financial Officer at Ability Plus, manages the fiscal health and long-term financial planning of the organization. Overseeing the allocation of donations and grant funding, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources directly support residential housing and vocational training programs. Melissa Dean architects robust financial reporting systems to maintain transparency and accountability for all stakeholders. By analyzing budgetary requirements for day habilitation and community event spaces, the Chief Financial Officer drives cost-effective strategies that maximize the impact of every dollar spent. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the executive team to align financial goals with the mission of promoting independence for individuals with disabilities. Through diligent oversight of revenue streams and expenditure, the Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary capital to sustain and expand essential services. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer provides the fiscal foundation required to foster growth and community connection.

    Marcie Watkins - Chief Operating Officer

    Marcie Watkins, the Chief Operating Officer at Ability Plus, manages the daily execution of residential housing and 24-hour support services. Overseeing the operational infrastructure, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that day habilitation programs function efficiently while maintaining strict safety protocols for all clients. Marcie Watkins coordinates the logistics of job coaching initiatives, ensuring that vocational training aligns with the specific needs of individuals seeking independence. By optimizing internal workflows and resource allocation, the Chief Operating Officer drives operational excellence across all service delivery sites. This leadership role requires constant monitoring of service quality and staff performance to guarantee that community connection remains a priority. Through the implementation of rigorous operational standards, the Chief Operating Officer supports the broader mission of enabling fulfilling lives. Ultimately, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the stability of essential services, ensuring that the organization meets the diverse requirements of the population served.
    Marcie Watkins

    Audra Watkins - Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

    Audra Watkins, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) at Ability Plus, directs the internal administrative functions and organizational compliance protocols. Overseeing human resources, policy development, and facility management, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) ensures that the organization operates within legal and ethical frameworks while supporting the staff who provide 24-hour care. Audra Watkins architects efficient administrative processes that streamline the delivery of job coaching and day habilitation services. By managing the infrastructure of the inclusive event space, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) drives the creation of welcoming environments for community gatherings. This leadership role involves coordinating with other executives to ensure that administrative support aligns with the strategic goals of the organization. Through the implementation of effective governance and operational policies, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) maintains the integrity of the organization. Ultimately, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) supports the mission by ensuring that all internal systems function seamlessly to benefit clients.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ability Plus Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Ability Plus?
    Ability Plus is led by Karockas Watkins (Chief Executive Officer & President & Executive Director), along with executives such as Melissa Dean (Chief Financial Officer) and Marcie Watkins (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Ability Plus’s executive team?
    The executive team of Ability Plus includes leaders such as Karockas Watkins (Chief Executive Officer & President & Executive Director), Melissa Dean (Chief Financial Officer), Marcie Watkins (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Ability Plus have?
    Ability Plus has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Ability Plus’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Ability Plus includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer & President & Executive Director, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).