Fast named director of development at Tabor
Marlene Fast has been named the new director of development at Tabor College.
She will be responsible for increasing membership in the Tabor Society, the annual fund at the college.
"Marlene is an alumna of Tabor College who knows the Tabor constituency," said Jim Elliott, vice president of advancement. "The director of development is the primary fund-raising officer at the college, and Marlene's background in sales is ideal for her new role."
Prior to her appointment at Tabor, Marlene owned and managed Fast Realty in Hillsboro, a company she founded in 2002. Returning to Tabor as director of development is an opportunity for her to use her God-given talents and abilities.
"Tabor is making progress in so many areas," she said. "We saw the need for new townhouses and now they are a reality; and now we're planning a football stadium renovation. There also are many exciting, new educational initiatives on campus.
"It's fascinating to see how God is working in so many different areas at Tabor."
As a private liberal arts college, Tabor relies on the generous support of its constituency. This past year, more than $3.5 million was contributed to the Tabor Fund, the new townhouses, and other campus projects.
"The Tabor Society provides for the day-to-day ministry needs of the college, and helps keep a Tabor education affordable for students." Fast said. "Without the help of our alumni, those costs would skyrocket. So our donors are a vital part of our ministry."
Marlene (Penner) Fast received her bachelor of arts degree in Contemporary Christian Ministries from Tabor College in 1979, and earned a BA in Music Education in 1980.
Marlene is the mother of three children. Daughter, Katie, is a senior biochemistry major at Tabor; son, Peter, is a sophomore aerospace engineering major at Wichita State University; and, daughter Courtney is a senior at Hillsboro High School.
Marlene enjoys watching her children compete in sports. Courtney plays tennis for Hillsboro High School and swims for the Hillsboro Swim Team; Peter is a member of the Wichita State University crew team; and Katie plays basketball for Tabor College.
Marlene also enjoys playing piano for special programs and worship services at Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren and Parkview Mennonite Brethren churches.
In her new role as director of development, Marlene is eager to share what's new at Tabor College with everyone she meets.
"There are so many positive things to talk about," she said. "I loved the Tabor College I attended, but the college has continued to move forward in so many areas, and has a vision to do even more.
"I feel blessed to be able to share this vision with others."
