June 15, 2026
Simpson Housing Services is pleased to announce that Tonya Brownlow has been named the organization’s next Executive Director. Tonya will begin her role on September 15, 2026.
Tonya will succeed longtime Executive Director Steve Horsfield and lead Simpson into its next chapter as the organization continues its mission to house, support, and empower people impacted by homelessness.
Tonya brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in homelessness, housing stability, mental health, and supportive services. For the past 12 years, she has served as Executive Director of Emma Norton Services, where she led significant organizational growth, expanded housing and mental health programs, strengthened financial sustainability, and advanced trauma-informed and anti-racist practices across the organization.
During her tenure, Emma Norton Services grew its operating budget from $1.4 million to $5.5 million, expanded staffing, and more than doubled the number of individuals served annually.
Throughout her career, Tonya has been recognized as a respected leader and collaborator within Minnesota’s housing and homelessness response system. Her experience spans emergency shelter, transitional housing, permanent supportive housing, mental health services, public-private partnerships, fundraising, advocacy, and organizational leadership.
“Tonya is a trusted and deeply respected leader whose work has long centered on dignity, housing stability, and community,” said Stephanie Abel, Board President of Simpson Housing Services. “She understands Simpson’s mission and values and brings a collaborative leadership style that will guide the organization in its next chapter. We are thrilled to welcome Tonya and look forward to the work ahead together.”
A comprehensive executive search was conducted by the Simpson Housing Services Board of Directors in partnership with Ballinger | Leafblad, an executive search firm dedicated to serving the civic sector and partnering with nonprofits and foundations to identify and recruit exceptional leaders.
“Throughout this process, Tonya consistently distinguished herself through her depth of experience, collaborative leadership style, and unwavering commitment to the mission,” said Patricia Harmon and Steve Proeschel, Co-Chairs of the Search Committee. “She understands both the complexity of the challenges facing our community and the opportunities ahead for Simpson. Just as importantly, she brings a leadership approach grounded in partnership, humility, and a deep belief in the potential of people and communities.”
Tonya has worked alongside Simpson Housing Services throughout much of her career and has long admired the organization’s commitment to housing, supportive services, and advocacy.
“I am honored and humbled to join Simpson Housing Services as its next Executive Director,” said Tonya Brownlow. “For more than two decades, I have watched Simpson lead with compassion, innovation, and a deep commitment to ensuring every person has access to safe, stable housing. I have long admired the organization’s talented staff, dedicated volunteers, committed supporters, and strong community partnerships. I look forward to building on that legacy, working alongside the board and team, and continuing to advance solutions that create lasting pathways out of homelessness.”
Under Tonya’s leadership, Simpson will continue building on its long-standing commitment to shelter, supportive housing, and the belief that every person deserves a safe, stable place to call home.
Wendy Wiegmann, Associate Director, will continue serving as Acting Executive Director during the transition. Several community events will be announced this fall to welcome Tonya and introduce her to the Simpson community.