St Louis Arc Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

St Louis Arc has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, fellowship, financial oversight, and board governance.

Committed to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, St Louis Arc delivers essential support services across the metropolitan region to foster inclusive communities and enhance quality of life for families.

Leadership Roles at St Louis Arc

  • Chief Executive Officer - Mark Keeley
  • Chief Executive Officer & Fellow - Melissa Ettlinger
  • Chief Financial Officer - Tammy Childress
  • Board Member and Board President - Kathie Winter
  • Mark Keeley - Chief Executive Officer

    Mark Keeley, the Chief Executive Officer at St Louis Arc, directs the overarching strategic vision for the organization. Keeley manages the delivery of support services for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across the metropolitan area. By aligning operational goals with the mission of the United Way agency, the Chief Executive Officer ensures consistent service quality and resource allocation. Mark Keeley maintains active engagement with community stakeholders to expand the reach of programs designed for families. This leadership role involves monitoring organizational performance metrics to guarantee that every initiative meets the specific needs of the disability community. Through rigorous oversight of internal processes, the Chief Executive Officer drives sustainable growth and operational excellence. Keeley prioritizes the development of inclusive environments, ensuring that the agency remains a cornerstone of support for the region while maintaining fiscal responsibility and long-term impact for all participants.

    Melissa Ettlinger - Chief Executive Officer & Fellow

    Melissa Ettlinger, the Chief Executive Officer & Fellow at St Louis Arc, architects specialized research and fellowship initiatives to advance disability support standards. Ettlinger focuses on the integration of evidence-based practices into the daily operations of the agency. By analyzing regional service gaps, the Chief Executive Officer & Fellow designs innovative programs that address the complex requirements of individuals with developmental disabilities. Melissa Ettlinger collaborates with external partners to secure funding and promote advocacy efforts that influence broader social policy. This role requires constant evaluation of service delivery models to ensure alignment with the evolving needs of the metropolitan population. Through the application of advanced research methodologies, the Chief Executive Officer & Fellow optimizes the effectiveness of support systems. Ettlinger champions the mission of the organization by fostering deep connections between clinical research and practical community application, ultimately enhancing the independence and well-being of every person served.

    Tammy Childress - Chief Financial Officer

    Tammy Childress, the Chief Financial Officer at St Louis Arc, manages the fiscal health and budgetary integrity of the organization. Childress oversees all financial reporting, grant management, and resource allocation processes necessary to sustain the agency's diverse service portfolio. By implementing robust internal controls, the Chief Financial Officer ensures compliance with United Way standards and regulatory requirements. Tammy Childress directs the long-term financial planning efforts that support the expansion of programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. This leadership position involves coordinating with department heads to optimize operational budgets and maximize the impact of every dollar spent on community services. Through meticulous analysis of revenue streams and expenditure patterns, the Chief Financial Officer secures the financial stability required for ongoing mission fulfillment. Childress maintains transparency in all fiscal operations, providing the necessary data to support strategic decision-making and the continued growth of essential regional support initiatives.

    Kathie Winter - Board Member and Board President

    Kathie Winter, the Board Member and Board President at St Louis Arc, governs the strategic direction and policy framework of the organization. Winter leads the board in establishing long-term goals that align with the mission of providing support to individuals with developmental disabilities. By facilitating high-level discussions among board members, the Board Member and Board President ensures that the agency remains accountable to the community and its stakeholders. Kathie Winter oversees the evaluation of executive performance and organizational outcomes to maintain alignment with the core values of the agency. This role involves fostering strong relationships with donors and community leaders to bolster the reputation and reach of the organization throughout the metropolitan area. Through diligent oversight of governance practices, the Board Member and Board President protects the integrity of the mission. Winter drives the board toward sustainable decision-making, ensuring that the agency continues to provide high-quality services for families.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding St Louis Arc Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads St Louis Arc?
    St Louis Arc is led by Mark Keeley (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Melissa Ettlinger (Chief Executive Officer & Fellow) and Tammy Childress (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of St Louis Arc’s executive team?
    The executive team of St Louis Arc includes leaders such as Mark Keeley (Chief Executive Officer), Melissa Ettlinger (Chief Executive Officer & Fellow), Tammy Childress (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does St Louis Arc have?
    St Louis Arc has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in St Louis Arc’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of St Louis Arc includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Fellow, Chief Financial Officer, Board Member and Board President.