Heard Around Town: Former Councilwoman Arroyo joins Acacia Network

Former New York City Councilwoman Maria del Carmen Arroyo has joined the Acacia Network as vice president for administration, a position that comes with a $220,000 annual salary.

As the largest Puerto Rican-founded organization in the nation, Acacia Network provides primary and behavioral health care, economic development, housing, education and cultural services in New York and Florida. The nonprofit operates shelters and performs other services for the city government.

Arroyo, who announced in November she would resign from her South Bronx seat at the end of 2015 due to “pressing family needs,” started at the Acacia Network Monday. As a councilwoman she earned a base salary of $112,500, according to city records, plus an additional $8,000 as chair of the Community Development Committee.

“I am excited to start a new chapter in my professional career,” Arroyo said in a statement. “I am honored to join an organization with extensive experience in working with the community, and I look forward to working with the team in addressing the profound needs of our population.”

Raul Russi, CEO of Acacia Network, said Arroyo was a good candidate for the vice president position because of her experience in health and human services.

“Maria del Carmen's commitment to serve and improve the quality of life in our community is commendable and has already made her a key addition to the Acacia Family,” Russi said in a statement.