Astraea Welcomes Beverly Blake, Ray Hsia and Yvonne Fly Onakeme Etaghene
Astraea is pleased to announce the addition of three talented individuals to the staff. "I am delighted that we found Beverly to step in as our Director of Development, as well as Ray and Fly to fill new positions. Already the impact of their work is palpable," said Katherine Acey, Executive Director. “They each contribute a unique blend of skills, experience, and personality to our team.”
Beverly Blake brings to the Director of Development position fifteen years of institutional leadership creating and implementing development strategies. A former corporate executive and attorney, Beverly decided to make a direct impact and entered the non-profit sector. Because of her values, the decision to join Astraea was an easy one. “I am committed to empowering myself and others to work for personal freedom and human dignity," she said, "Astraea provides a way to do that and have a broad impact in the struggle for social justice and equality." Beverly is particularly recognized for her skills in strategic planning, multi-million dollar fundraising, and operational problem solving.
With an extensive background in event production, from non-profit anniversary galas to the Beijing Olympics, Ray Hsia has leapt quickly into his role as Events Manager. “What makes me especially excited is the opportunity to genuinely connect with Astraea's supporters," said Ray, "Our donors not only give, but also engage those around them to do the same. They offer up their homes for parties, serve on planning committees and attend every Astraea-sponsored affair. It's a privilege to facilitate Astraea supporters' philanthropic activism."
Yvonne Fly Onakeme Etaghene joins Astraea in the new position of Grants Assistant. An accomplished activist, poet, and performer, she brings to Astraea a deep commitment "to the freedom and happiness of LGBTI people worldwide.” Already contributing sharp research skills and an infinite patience for data, Yvonne said, "To be a part of providing funding towards actualizing justice on global and local levels is the work I’ve always dreamed of.”
