The board of directors of South Peninsula Haven House has named Ronnie Leach its new executive director effective July 1. A nonprofit serving the southern Kenai Peninsula, Haven House operates a 10-bed emergency women’s shelter for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault and their children.

Leach first started with Haven House in 2004, holding a variety of positions before assuming her current role as director of client services earlier this year.

Of her new position, Leach said, “I am passionate about the work that we do. I am grounded in the mission and vision of Haven House and believe that everyone deserves a safe place to sleep at night. I am honored to have the opportunity to lead Haven House and work with the community and our many partners.”

Board President Terry Thompson said, “The board is excited to have Ronnie in this position. She knows the staff and the many programs Haven House operates, she’s familiar with Homer having raised her family here, and she has a strong commitment to the work of Haven House — to protect and support victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.”

Leach received her undergraduate education from the University of Alaska Fairbanks and most recently completed her masters in human resource management from Walden University.