Mark Weber, CEO of the YMCA of Southwest Michigan, announced three promotions within the organization to take effect March 1, 2017.
Denise Peters has been promoted to chief operating officer, Jennifer Hobson has been promoted to the director of administration and Jill Haboush has been promoted to the vice president of fund development and marketing.
Denise Peters has been at the YMCA for nearly 30 years as a volunteer, and 15 years as an employee. Prior to her promotion, she had the position of vice president of programs. Her initial interest stemmed from a love for people and a passion for serving the community.

Throughout her life, she has served the Niles community in a variety of ways, ranging from her time as a business owner, to volunteering at the schools and coaching sports.
“I’m blessed and privileged to work alongside the most amazing, passionate people who are committed to making a difference,” Peters said. “This is a great opportunity to promote collaboration and initiatives to have greater impact, county-wide with community partners.”
Jennifer Hobson has been working at the YMCA for 16 years. She started out working in the after-school care program, where she served in multiple different positions, from nursery supervisor to most recently executive assistant.
“I love the camaraderie amongst staff and the opportunity to talk to members during the day,” Hobson said. “I get a bit emotional when I think about all the change our Y has gone through over the last year, and how Mike [former CEO of Benton Harbor-St. Joseph YMCA] made a lasting impact on us when he recommended we share management with the Niles-Buchanan YMCA. I can’t wait to see where we are a year from now.”
Jill Haboush started as the fund development specialist in January 2015 and quickly moved up to director of fund development and marketing. The YMCA was one of the first places she joined when she moved back to the Niles area in 2012. She developed friendships with members and also staff, which motivated her to apply for a position at the Y.
“The Y’s mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body has such a tremendous impact on so many people,” Haboush said. “I am an advocate of healthy living, enjoy working with youth and think social responsibility is key to a successful community. The Y’s focus is my focus. Naturally it has been a good fit. I’m excited about the merger and look forward to having a county-wide impact.”
The Benton Harbor-St. Joseph YMCA and the Niles-Buchanan YMCA boards voted to merge into one association two weeks ago.