Posted November 14, 2024

By CLEVELAND DAILY BANNER STAFF REPORTS

Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland has announced the upcoming resignation of its CEO, Tammy Johnson, according to a press statement from the organization today, Wednesday, Nov. 13.

Johnson’s departure follows her husband’s acceptance of a new professional opportunity in Birmingham, Alabama, resulting in the family's plans to relocate to that city, Habitat said.

Habitat said Johnson "has been a driving force behind HFHOC's success and growth, leaving a lasting impact on the Cleveland/Bradley County community."

Beginning as the development director, Johnson progressed in leadership roles, "demonstrating great dedication and impactful contributions," leading to her appointment as CEO in October 2017.

During her seven-year tenure as CEO, Habitat said Johnson has been "pivotal in advancing HFHOC’s mission to foster relationships and connect neighbors to resources to support their path to stability."

Under her leadership, the organization said it has achieved significant milestones, including financial stability and growth.

During her tenure, Habitat said it has closed on more than 40 new homes, developed the new Morelock Meadows subdivision, and implemented the building of multi-unit and pre-cast homes.

The organization has retired nearly $500,000 in debt and established the Hope for Habitat Endowment in 2020, growing the endowment to more than $1.1 million.

"She led the team to secure the largest grant in HFHOC’s history at over $760,000, and the ReStore continues to excel with record-breaking sales," Habitat said.

Additionally, it has also won four consecutive Habitat of Tennessee State Impact Awards under Johnson’s leadership, including Affiliate, Leader, ReStore and Trailblazer of the Year.

Johnson said, "It's been a tremendous gift to work alongside such a talented team of staff, board members, volunteers, and community friends with a true commitment to serve and love our neighbors."

"I’m incredibly thankful God led me to [Habitat], and for the opportunity I’ve had to make meaningful relationships with our community and team," she said.

Karen Colley, Habitat's board president, said, “Tammy’s investment in this organization over the past seven years, her visionary, compassionate, and insightful servant leadership, has left a legacy that will continue to create opportunities to serve our neighbors in the immediate future and well beyond.”

Dr. Dewayne Thompson, the board's president-elect, said Johnson "has been an incredible leader for Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland, steering the organization with unwavering commitment and a deep passion for the community."

“Her impact on affordable housing in our area is profound, and her dedication to the families we serve will be felt for years to come," he said. "We are grateful for her service and wish her all the best in her next chapter.”

Habitat said it has appointed a dedicated search committee composed of the board president, president-elect, and additional current board members to oversee the process of finding and selecting the next CEO.

Johnson will remain on staff with the organization throughout the search process and for an additional period to facilitate the onboarding of her successor.