Succession planning is often avoided because it’s uncomfortable. This session is designed to make the conversation practical and approachable, covering everything from the proverbial “hit by the bus” scenario to planned transitions and long‑term leadership development. Succession planning isn’t just about staff; it always involves boards as well. In smaller and mid‑sized organizations, this matters even more because so much knowledge and responsibility rests with fewer people, and boards are often more hands‑on, making an unexpected board absence especially disruptive. For that reason, this session looks at succession across the Executive Director, other mission‑critical staff, board officers, and key volunteer leaders who are central to Habitat operations. Particular attention is given to the board’s responsibility to step in and execute during leadership transitions, alongside the continuity of mission‑critical volunteer roles. Participants will work through short‑, medium‑, and long‑term succession scenarios, explore key decision points such as Acting (internal) versus Interim (external) leadership, and leave with sample policies and board‑level discussion tools they can use immediately.
This Strategic Dialogue Session creates space for staff and leaders to engage in open, thoughtful conversation about several sensitive and mission‑shaping issues that affiliates navigate in their work. Because these topics require time and reflection, they are divided across two sessions. In this first discussion, participants will explore approaches to sweat equity, charging interest, expressions of faith and prayer, and strengthening board impact. The session is open to all attendees and is especially valuable for those involved in policy, program design, or organizational decision‑making. Attendance at Session #2 is encouraged but not required.
Chief Executive Officer, Northeast Texas Habitat for Humanity
LaJuan (LJ) Gordon is the Chief Executive Officer of Northeast Texas Habitat for Humanity, serving Gregg, Harrison, and Upshur counties, headquartered in Longview, TX. She has twenty-five years of experience in the non-profit industry, including executive leadership, consulting... Read More →
Monday August 3, 2026 4:00pm - 5:30pm CDT Heritage 3
