Yvonne Sieber, Hesston College vice president of Development, has announced the appointment of Tonya Gaby, White Pigeon, Mich.

Gaby began November 1 as a development officer, serving in the states of Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio, and developing strategies with young alumni across the country.

Tonya Hunsberger Gaby, who received an associate of arts degree from Hesston College in 1994, earned a bachelor’s degree in social work in 1996 from Goshen (Ind.) College.

Since 2004, Gaby has worked as executive director of Elkhart County Community Corrections. Sieber said that one of Gaby’s roles in that position was securing funds for the program and grant writing. “She’s quite used to promoting a purpose that requires funds.”

Sieber noted that about 20 percent of Hesston College’s alumni live in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. “The fact that Tonya lives in the territory means she can more easily connect with alumni and friends,” she said. “She has a strong knowledge of the college, what our mission is, and why Hesston is unique. She also brings the added benefit of having been an involved student.”

“Tonya brings an excitement and a commitment to the mission of Hesston College,” Sieber continued. “Her energy and excellent relational and public speaking skills will be a strong asset for this position.”

Gaby said she’s eager to begin her new role. “I’m looking forward to renewing relationships and building new ones with alumni and friends of Hesston College, and the resulting opportunity to reflect on how Hesston has shaped us,” she said. “I hope to be a channel for people to feel connected to Hesston College.

“I also anticipate visiting the Hesston campus periodically to see how the college continues to grow and move forward,” Gaby said. “I believe in Hesston College and enjoy helping people get excited about it, since Hesston is an institution I’m passionate about.”