By Kate Ulrich ’29
Updated 11:50 a.m. EDT, 26 Sept. 2025
At the beginning of the 2025-2026 academic year, Houghton University (HU) graduate Tanya Perkins ‘95 became the school’s new Director of Student Engagement.
During her time at HU, she was a member of the soccer team and majored in Outdoor Recreation with a minor in Spanish.
Before returning to HU, Perkins worked part-time as the college ministry director at Christ Community Church in Geneseo, NY. She served the students who attended the church and worked with the Christian campus community, Intervarsity. Perkins developed an unexpected passion for ministering to college students- “I didn’t realize how much I would love it until I started it,” she said.
To supplement her part-time income, Perkins took on other jobs, but knew she needed a change. “I felt like God was pushing me to move on,” said Perkins. She began interviewing for jobs that would give her more flexibility within her church role. “I was hoping to actually move to Geneseo, so I could be more available and more ready to meet with students on the fly,” Perkins explained.
During her search, HU’s Slate administrator and Perkins’ daughter-in-law, Zoe Perkins, discovered an open position at the university and encouraged Perkins to apply.
“Tanya has experience working with college students and a background in recreation. Furthermore, she holds a strong Christian faith,” commented Zoe Perkins. “I thought she’d be a great addition to the Houghton community.”
Tanya Perkins was hesitant at first. “I wasn’t sure because I knew it was a full-time job… That was really tough because I wasn’t looking to leave [Christ Community Church],” she said. “I was looking to supplement it with something different. But as I went through that process… I really do feel like God flung the door open for Houghton to happen.”
As Director of Student Engagement, Perkins’ responsibilities include overseeing organizations such as the Student Council and the Campus Activities Board (CAB). In addition, she helps set up new clubs and plan budgets and events.
CAB President Emma Podobinski ‘27 said the change in leadership worried her at first, but Perkins quickly put her at ease. “Knowing that there was going to be a transition of supervisors, it was a little scary,” said Podobinski. “But Tanya is super amazing, and I was in contact with her over the summer, and I knew right away that it was going to be good.” Podobinski works closely with Perkins to organize CAB events and budgets. She said that she and Perkins “share the weight” of meetings, working together to lead the group.
“I love being part of the team—talking and creating and brainstorming,” she said.
Perkins said the most rewarding aspect of her job is interacting with students. She enjoys advising and helping run organizations, but also appreciates being involved in activities like ultimate frisbee with students.
Although ministry is not a chief part of her job description, it is still important to Perkins: “Spiritual life, such as discipleship and mentorship, is my heart and passion- that is what truly brings me joy.” ★
