Habitat for Humanity of the Roaring Fork announces Darla Callaway as new CEO
Courtesy photo
Habitat for Humanity of the Roaring Fork Valley has named Darla Callaway its new chief executive officer, according to a news release issued on Wednesday, May 21.
Callaway brings a deep understanding of the region’s complex planning and housing landscape and has spent her career focused on improving community stability through affordable housing and development initiatives.
“I am honored to join Habitat for Humanity of the Roaring Fork Valley and help expand access to affordable homeownership throughout this incredible region,” she said. “Housing is fundamental to the resiliency of our mountain communities, and I look forward to building on the legacy of this organization by advancing thoughtful, community-centered development.”
She earned her bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture from Oklahoma State University before going on to complete the Advanced Management Development Program in Real Estate at Harvard University. After an accomplished career at Design Workshop Inc.— an international organization that focuses on community development through a combination of artistic, economic, and ecological viability — she now shifts her focus to the housing needs in the Roaring Fork Valley.
Throughout her career, she has helped secure entitlements for $5 million to $100 million projects in Aspen, Glenwood Springs, Vail, Steamboat Springs, and Telluride. She also led the relocation of Design Workshop’s Aspen office to Basalt, a move that improved staff retention and quality of life for more than 40 employees.
“(The) project reflects her deep understanding of housing’s role in organizational health and community sustainability,” the release says.
Callaway began her new responsibilities at HFHRFV on May 5 with former CEO Gail Schwartz at her side to ease the transition of leadership.
“Darla’s exceptional leadership, deep understanding of housing and planning, and her commitment to building resilient communities make her a perfect fit for Habitat for Humanity of the Roaring Fork Valley,” Danielle Howard, chair of the Board of Directors said in the release. “We are excited to have her lead us into this next phase of growth and impact.”
Schwartz will stay close to HFHRFV in an adversarial role to ensure a smooth transition. For more information about Habitat for Humanity of the Roaring Fork Valley, visit habitatroaringfork.org.
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