Women's Tabloid

Diakon names new President and CEO – Shari VanderGast

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Women's Tabloid News Desk
Women's Tabloid News Desk

Diakon, a social services company based in Topton, has announced a significant leadership change. Shari VanderGast, currently the Chief Operating Officer, will step into the role of president and CEO, making her the first woman to hold this position at Diakon. VanderGast succeeds Scott Habecker, who has led the organization since 2021.

VanderGast brings a strong educational background to her new role, holding a bachelor’s degree in human resources and labor relations from Cornell University, a master’s in social work from Columbia University, and a juris doctorate from Temple University. She has been with Diakon since 2015 and is poised to lead the company into its next chapter.

Habecker is stepping down following a successful period of restructuring that has positioned Diakon for future growth. He will remain involved as a strategic and financial management consultant during the transition.

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I have had at Diakon over the past 15 years,” Habecker stated. “It has been an absolute privilege to help lead the organization through its recent transformation, which has positioned Diakon to aggressively pursue its future strategic growth plans.”

In her remarks, VanderGast praised Habecker’s leadership: “Over the past 15 years, Scott has provided stellar leadership for Diakon. He led the organization’s transformation as we completed the recent transaction with Lutheran Senior Services. Scott’s leadership and financial skills have helped Diakon to serve many individuals and families in a high-quality and financially sustainable way. I have also greatly appreciated Scott’s support and mentorship over the last ten years, and I look forward to continuing to work with him as we grow our services.”

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