The Arc Mesa County © 2019 | All Rights Reserved
Candace Diaz, Director of Advocacy
Candace is a long-time resident of Grand Junction. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Language Arts and Elementary Education from Mesa State College. Candace received her Master’s Generalist Special Education degree and Education Specialist Degree (Principal and Special Education Director License) from University of Northern Colorado. She worked as a Significant Support Needs (SSN) teacher for eleven years in an elementary school prior to joining The Arc Mesa County Advocacy Team early in 2017. Candace brings her enthusiasm and love for her job to The Arc Mesa County.
Cindy Pixler, Advocate
Cindy was born in Puerto Rico on a Naval Base. She moved to Colorado when she was a year old. Cindy has worked in multiple roles with Individuals with disabilities of all ages over the past 10+ years. Cindy enjoys working with all individuals. She has experience as a RBT and a paraprofessional as well as a case manager with adult and children’s waivers.
Our Staff
Kevin from HR
An official door greeter, Kevin is the Arc's Human Resources Department Director. He will listen to all complaints with empathy, hugs and kisses.
Damon Lockhart, Interim Executive Director
Damon comes from an educational background. He has worked with children and was a Special Education Director for Mesa County Valley School District #51 prior to becoming a principal at Independence Academy for 10 years. Damon served as the Executive Director for The Arc in Delta (WCCO) for 4 years. Damon loves sports and has been a coach and avid sports dad for his 5 children. He brings a wealth of knowledge and we couldn't be happier to have him on the team to help during this transition.
Sonia Gates- Advocate
Sonia was born and raised in Farmington, NM. She has dedicated her career to working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities and mental illness. She has a combination of experience with all age and ability levels. Her passion is working with individuals and families to increase their awareness of support in the community as well as advocating for the equality of rights for people with disabilities. Sonia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from New Mexico Highlands University and taught Special Education for many years in New Mexico. After moving to Grand Junction in 2014, she spent six years in leadership at the Grand Junction Regional Center before returning to education. Sonia found that she also has a passion for leadership and completed her Masters in Educational Leadership in August of 2023. She is excited to bring her experience and passion to The Arc Mesa County team..