Today we share leadership transition news at Habitat for Humanity New York City and Westchester County. It is with a mix of emotions that we announce that Karen Haycox is stepping down as CEO of our organization at the end of this month. After nearly a decade of dedicated service to Habitat NYC and Westchester, Karen will be starting a new chapter of her life in California, and we wish her well.
Our Heartfelt Gratitude. The entire Habitat NYC and Westchester leadership team, our staff and our Board, join together to express our deepest gratitude. Karen’s legacy of service to our homeowners and homebuyers is unmatched as she led us through times of immense challenge as well as remarkable growth and impact.
Karen’s journey with us has been a testament to her passion for housing justice and her tireless efforts to build a better future for our communities. From overseeing the completion of Sydney House, the largest multi-family development built by a Habitat for Humanity affiliate to-date, establishing both the Habitat NYC Community Fund and Interboro Community Land Trust, to her leadership in disaster relief efforts and advocacy for LGBTQ+ housing communities, Karen’s impact goes far beyond the walls of our organization. Her visionary leadership reframed how we approach our mission and laid the foundation for continued success.
Interim Leadership. During this transition period, we are grateful to have Matthew Dunbar (Chief Strategy Officer) and Chris Illum (Chief Operating Officer) stepping in as interim co-leads. Stalwarts of the non-profit affordable housing sector, Matthew and Chris have a combined nearly 35 years of Habitat leadership and commitment that will ensure the continuity of our mission.
Next Steps. As we bid farewell to Karen, we look ahead with excitement for the opportunities that new beginnings bring. Knowing Karen’s relocation to California was imminent, we’re well-positioned for change, and have initiated the search for our next CEO, confident that this transition heralds a promising future.
We invite you to join us in celebrating and thanking Karen for her tremendous leadership.
