Knoxville Habitat for Humanity Appoints Anna Engelstad as New CEO

Knoxville Welcomes New CEO for Habitat for Humanity

Knoxville, Tennessee has recently made a significant leadership change at Knoxville Habitat for Humanity. After a nationwide search for the nonprofit’s new CEO, the organization announced that Anna Engelstad will step into the role on September 1. Engelstad had been serving as the interim CEO since the retirement of long-time leader Kelle Shultz earlier this year.

Leadership Transition

Knoxville Habitat for Humanity’s Board of Directors completed a thorough search process, reviewing over 100 candidates from different parts of the country. Ultimately, Engelstad, previously the chief operations officer, was recognized as the ideal candidate for the CEO position. According to a news release, her selection was due to her “wealth of experience” and “deep commitment to affordable housing and community development.”

Engelstad’s Vision

In a statement following her new appointment, Engelstad expressed her enthusiasm about the role: “This organization has a profound impact on our community, and I am eager to work with the dedicated team, volunteers, and supporters to continue building strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership.” This shows her willingness to push forward with the important mission of providing affordable housing in Knoxville.

Positive Endorsements

Ty Hall, Chair of the Board of Directors, also shared positive sentiments about Engelstad’s appointment. Hall said, “We are thrilled to welcome Anna Engelstad as our new CEO. Her extensive experience and passion for our mission make her the ideal leader to guide us into the future. We are confident that under her leadership, Knoxville Habitat will continue to thrive and expand its impact on families in our community.”

Experience and Adaptability

Engelstad’s experience with Knoxville Habitat for Humanity spans many areas within the organization, making her well-suited for the challenges ahead. Angie Hatcher Sledge, the former chief development officer, praised Engelstad, saying, “Anna was the perfect person because she’s got the most generalized knowledge of every department within this organization.”

During her time as interim CEO, Engelstad has already been involved in navigating the competitive housing market in Knoxville. She has been working on various initiatives, including diverse fundraising ideas and collaborations, to help the nonprofit adapt to the post-pandemic economy.

Upcoming Projects

Under Engelstad’s leadership, Knoxville Habitat for Humanity is keen to focus on critical home repairs and is in the final stages of its newest neighborhood development, Ellen’s Glen. Plans are also in place for another neighborhood named The Plains, which is set to break ground soon. These developments highlight the organization’s commitment to providing stable housing solutions for families in the Knoxville area.

A Bright Future

With Anna Engelstad at the helm, Knoxville Habitat for Humanity looks forward to a future filled with opportunities for growth and community impact. As the organization embarks on this new chapter, the team remains dedicated to its mission of enhancing the lives of local families through affordable homeownership.

Engelstad’s leadership will surely be pivotal as she guides Knoxville Habitat into its next phase, strengthening the fabric of the community one home at a time.