Introducing Lois Mason

Tolson Center for Community Excellence hires executive assistant, second full-time staff

Monday, October 10, 2022

The board of the Tolson Center for Community Excellence announced Monday, October 10, 2022, the hiring of Lois Mason, as executive assistant.

She is the second full-time staff member of the Tolson Center for Community Excellence. Tolson’s Executive Director, Breanna Allen, Ed.D., was appointed in March 2022.

As executive assistant, Mrs. Mason’s duties will focus on internal operations such as finance and human resources, laying the foundation for the hiring of additional staff that will make Tolson’s remarkable next chapter a reality.

“I’m excited to have Lois joining the Tolson staff to help advance our mission, vision and goals. Her roots in the community, as well as her 20-plus years of administrative experience will be invaluable for developing Tolson’s early operations,” said Mrs. Allen.

Mrs. Mason brings significant experience working in Elkhart community organizations with time at both Beacon Health System and Elkhart Community Schools. Her experience working with local students includes the LEAP program with local churches and the CARES program through Elkhart schools.
Born in Elkhart and growing up in Ford Heights, Ill., Mrs. Mason holds a degree from Robert Morris College in Carthage, Ill., and an accounting certificate from Ivy Tech Community College. She is a member of Community Missionary Baptist Church.
Mrs. Mason said, “I want to be a part of a positive change for all people. I believe that the Tolson Center of Community Excellence is going to help change lives and create long-lasting relationships. It will be my honor to help build a legacy for this community and to one day pass the torch to the next generation.”

Tolson Center has been operated by the City of Elkhart from its opening in 1991 until spring 2022. In this new chapter, the independent non-profit Tolson Center for Community Excellence is governed by a 15-member board of directors that includes neighborhood representation, can receive tax-deductible donations, and is accountable directly to its constituents.

The Tolson Center for Community Excellence is in the midst of a significant building process that will include a new 30,000-square-foot facility that includes meeting rooms, recreation space and classrooms. The campus will also include outdoor amenities such as a soccer field and playground. This project is supported by $15 million in pledged funding from sources such as the City of Elkhart, Lilly Endowment, Community Foundation of Elkhart County, and local donors. The amount also includes a recently announced $2.6 million READI grant from the South Bend Elkhart Regional Partnership. Fundraising is ongoing to reach the $16 million budget for Tolson’s expansion and secure the financial sustainability of this community resource.

Learn more about Lois.