BELTON, Texas – Dr. Rebecca O’Banion, who has served for nearly 15 years in
leadership positions at UMHB, has been named Vice President for the
newly formed advancement division, which merges the development division
with the former communications and special projects division. O'Banion
brings a proven record of strong leadership, successful fundraising,
and building constituent relationships to this new role.
The new division now includes four renamed and redefined departments: fundraising, alumni engagement, marketing and communications, and records and gift management.
“This reorganization is a natural step since many of the divisional functions already align, and the staff work on projects together frequently,” said President Dr. Randy O’Rear. “The newly-formed division will collectively share the UMHB story, plan and execute outstanding alumni and university-wide events, present opportunities for donors to help advance the mission and vision of UMHB, and elevate our brand both internally and externally.”
O’Banion has served as vice president for development since 2014, and has filled in as interim vice president of communications and special projects since December. Prior to that, her service at UMHB includes eight years as director of alumni relations and one year as associate vice president for development.
“We are excited about this opportunity to merge two divisions as we work together to elevate the UMHB brand, engage our alumni, and inspire new donors as we pursue our vision to become the university of choice for Christian higher education in the southwest,” she said.
O’Banion earned a doctoral degree in higher education administration from UMHB in 2014. She also holds a master’s degree in human services-executive leadership from Liberty University and a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science from UMHB. O’Banion’s prior work experience focused on non-profit ministry management, fundraising, event planning, communications, and international missions.
