Staff Highlight: Nick Deagnon
Caroline PinheiroWe’re excited to continue our Staff Highlight Campaign, where we celebrate the incredible individuals who contribute to the purpose and values of arc programs. This month, we are proud to feature Nick Deagnon, our new Director of IT Systems, who has been an integral part of the arc programs family for 15 years.
Nick’s journey through the agency has been defined by his versatility, warmth, and commitment to making systems work better for everyone. With experience supporting both frontline and management staff, Nick has brought valuable insight to a range of roles and initiatives—including his instrumental work with the Cornerstone outreach program. His collaborative spirit, gift for teaching and deep care for staff wellbeing have made him a trusted colleague and a champion of our values.
As Nick steps into his new leadership role, we celebrate not only his technical skills but also his dedication to teamwork, innovation, and creating spaces where feedback and learning are always welcome. His thoughtful approach to IT and system development will continue to guide us toward a future where technology and human connection go hand in hand.
To get to know Nick better, we asked him a few questions about his journey and vision at arc programs:
Questionnaire:
Name: Nick Deagnon
Job Title: Director of IT Systems
Program: Admin
Length of time within the organization: Overall 15
years, I think.
What is one of the most rewarding aspects of your
employment at arc? Having some great adventures with some really amazing
people.
How have you grown or developed personally or
professionally during your time with arc? Well, I’ve grown fatter in 20
years. I’ve also worked with a lot of people in a lot of programs, and
I’ve taken pieces of each experience with me, all of which have contributed to
who I am today, personally and professionally.
How do you observe your role contributing to create
thriving communities, free of systemic barriers and full of belonging, equity,
and hope? I play a support role for our front line and management staff to
keep them moving forward so they can do the really difficult work of creating
thriving communities, free of systemic barriers and full of belonging, equity,
and hope.
Can you share one of your biggest joys working in
collaboration with other staff, community partners, or clients to achieve a
goal? Like I said, I’ve worked with some truly amazing people. Every
time I get to see them or to work with them, I feel a sense of joy. I’m
most proud of my experience with the defunct Cornerstone Outreach Program for
children & youth in care. We were so far ahead of our time, and we
did some groundbreaking work. We had a lot of very creative people in
that program, and we made a big difference in the lives of the kids &
families we worked with.
How has arc’s Metuaptmumk (all around seeing) approach
and commitment to decolonization contributed your perspective and approach
towards transformative reconciliation? I just try to treat people with
global respect, recognizing that my vision necessarily has blind spots and that
my identity couldn’t be more privileged. I try and keep that in mind as
best as I can, always remaining open to feedback.
What inspires you to continue working in the social
services sector? The people I get to work with.
Outside of work, what are your passions or hobbies that
contribute to your overall well-being? Riding and wrenching on motorcycles,
true crime tv, camping, partying with my family and friend group. I swim 1250
meters before work every weekday and I make sure to have many snuggles with by
feline bestie, Bob.
Is there anyone you would you like to recognize or give a
shoutout to for their support, mentorship, or teamwork? Why? Work wise,
here are too many to list, but I’d say my wife, Jen has been my biggest (and
hardest working) supporter and teacher. She’s my person, and I can’t wait
to retire so we can spend more time together.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your
experience with arc or your work here? I’m here because I genuinely like
the people I get to work with.
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Heather Romero
Nick, we are so fortunate to have you and your awesomeness at arc!