Crystal Abbott Steps into Role Following Rob Seay's Departure
Anchorage: Today, the Henning Inc. team announces the bittersweet goodbye to Rob Seay who has served as Deputy Executive Director since our founding in 2020. His vision and lived experience have been unmeasurable to our mission of tackling shortcomings of the municipality’s homeless response system – from supporting Executive Director Shawn Hays and building the foundation of our peer support and lived experience model to creating a support system for the organization within the community, Seay’s impact will never be forgotten.
We are excited to share that Crystal Abbott will be stepping into the huge role of Deputy Executive Director. Abbott’s commitment, heart, and tenacity will be invaluable as she shapes the next steps for our organization. Abbott started with our team as a Housing Specialist and has served as our Operations Director for the last three years. Her dedication to not only our mission and vision, but those we serve is incomparable. Her unmatched skillset, paired with her lived experience, make her an incredible asset.
“While I am saddened to see Rob move on, I am excited for what lies ahead in his next chapter," said Shawn Hays, Executive Director. “Over the years, Rob and I have built a strong, family-like bond. I have no doubt that Crystal will excel as our new Deputy Executive Director. Her dedication, tenacity, and deep passion for our mission are just a few reasons why she’s the perfect fit for this role. From the moment I met Crystal, I knew she had the vision and drive to help us achieve our goals for Anchorage – and her work over the years has only reinforced that belief.”
“I am both honored and humbled to step into the role of Deputy Executive Director here at Henning Inc.,” explained Deputy Executive Director Crystal Abbott. “Rob’s impact on this organization has been immeasurable, and while I will miss working alongside him, I’m excited to continue the work he’s helped shape. Our mission to address homelessness in Anchorage is more important than ever, and I am fully committed to carrying it forward with the same heart, passion, and tenacity that has guided me throughout my time here. Together with our incredible team, I believe we can continue to build on the foundation Rob laid and make an even greater difference in the lives of those we serve.”
“When I worked for the municipality, I had the privilege of working closely with both Rob and Crystal," said Strategy Director Alexis Johnson. "They are both exceptionally talented individuals whose commitment to our mission is unmatched. While it’s bittersweet to see Rob leave Henning, I have complete confidence that Crystal is the right person to lead us forward and take our efforts to the next level in addressing homelessness in Anchorage.”
“As a board member of Henning Inc., I have seen firsthand the incredible impact both Rob and Crystal have had on our organization,” said Board Member Erica Taylor. “While we will miss Rob, we are excited for his next chapter. Crystal's unwavering dedication, deep understanding of our work, and passion for the community make her the perfect person to step into this role. I have no doubt she will continue to drive our mission forward and make a lasting difference in Anchorage.”
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