The Board of Directors of Diakon has announced a leadership transition as Shari VanderGast, currently chief operating officer, will assume the role of Diakon’s president and CEO.

VanderGast will succeed Scott Habecker, who has led Diakon as president and CEO since 2021, a news release states.

Habecker has chosen to step down from his current position following the successful completion of multiple transactions that reposition the organization for future growth.

He will offer transitional assistance to Diakon as a strategic and financial management consultant.

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I have had at Diakon over the past 15 years,” Habecker said.

“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.

“While I can’t help but have mixed emotions, I feel strongly that now is the right time for an organized leadership transition and take great pleasure in handing the reins to a seasoned leader like Shari VanderGast, who has been instrumental in all that we have accomplished over the past several years. I know she will make us all proud.”

With strengths specifically in strategic planning and mergers and acquisitions, Habecker joined Diakon in 2009 and served as the organization’s chief operating and financial officer before his appointment as president and CEO.

Throughout his tenure, Habecker demonstrated the hallmarks of successful leadership — visionary thinking, collaboration and a commitment to long-term growth.

Most recently, under his leadership earlier this year, Diakon successfully transitioned four senior living communities to the Lutheran Senior Services organization in a move that significantly enhances Diakon’s financial position and ability to aggressively grow its service offerings, including affordable housing and various social services.

Habecker’s continued involvement as a consultant will help provide a smooth transition and support for Diakon’s future goals.

“Over the past 15 years, Scott has provided stellar leadership for Diakon,” VanderGast said. “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.”

With this transition, VanderGast will become Diakon’s first female president and CEO, marking a historic milestone for the organization.

She brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in human resources and labor relations from Cornell University, a master’s degree in social work from Columbia University, and a juris doctorate from Temple University.

VanderGast’s commitment to Diakon’s mission and strong leadership since 2015 make her an excellent choice to lead the organization into the future.

Habecker leaves the organization with substantial financial capacity and well-positioned for future growth.

Habecker and VanderGast will work together over the coming weeks to ensure a seamless transition for Diakon’s strategic and financial plans.

“Diakon has been very fortunate to have both Scott and Shari in key leadership positions as we navigated challenging business conditions and effected a substantial shift in strategic direction over recent years,” Diakon Board of Directors chair Emried D. Cole, Jr. said. “The Diakon board looks forward to supporting Shari in her new leadership role and thanks Scott for his strong leadership and continued assistance during this executive transition.”