Systems Unlimited plans national search for new director

Systems Unlimited Inc. plans to begin a nationwide search for a new executive director following the resignation of Dion Williams last week.

The Iowa City-based agency provides services to over 1,200 clients with disabilities in 13 counties from offices in Johnson, Linn, Jones, Cedar, Muscatine and Washington counties. It employs a staff of over 900, helping clients improve and maintain their quality of life.

Williams directed the vocational and day services program at Systems Unlimited for nine years before he was named executive director in 2008. He submitted his resignation last week after discussing the move with the board of directors in recent weeks, Systems Unlimited board of directors President Todd Means said in a statement.

"Dion is a strong advocate for people with disabilities and is well known in the state," Means said, adding that his service benefitted the organization.

During the past three years he has served as executive director, Williams said Systems Unlimited has grown by 35 percent, recommitted to its mission and core values.

In the statement, Williams expressed pride in his contributions and those of the staff, which he called "the heart and hands of this organization."