New Year, New Leadership! ALCO Moves Its Mission Forward in Our Next Chapter!

As we step into 2026, ALCO is beginning an exciting new chapter. This year brings leadership transitions that honor the work that has brought us here and set the stage for where we are going next. Through all the changes, our commitment remains the same: we continue to focus on providing affordable, quality homes and quality jobs that strengthen communities.

On January 1, Sarah Jemison will become the new President and CEO of ALCO. After eight years with ALCO, Sarah has a strong understanding of our mission, our business model, and our commitment to supporting the people who carry it out every day. Prior to ALCO, Sarah worked at the National Low Income Housing Coalition, where she developed an understanding of the complex federal policies that impact our work. Since joining ALCO, she has worked with Acquisitions & Development, HR, Learning and Development, and Marketing. Through these experiences, Sarah has developed a strong understanding of the finances, people, and mission that make ALCO the successful company it is. Her focus in 2026 is strengthening our culture, supporting our teams, and guiding ALCO through its next season of growth.

After six years of leading ALCO, Berkeley Burbank will move into the role of Chief Development Officer. Under his leadership, we have navigated major challenges and expansions, including the COVID-19 pandemic, growth in our Operations Division, and the addition of hundreds of new apartment homes. In his new role, Berkeley will lead the Growth team and support ALCO’s long-term plan to continue expanding in a thoughtful, strategic way. Berkeley’s commitment to our mission and the families we serve, as well as his grasp of the complex ways ALCO is structured, means our expansion is in great hands.

At the same time, Robert Hyde will begin to transition into a part-time role as he moves toward retirement. Robert has been with ALCO for the last two decades, and his expertise in tax credit development has shaped many of our communities, from our first tax credit renovation at South Pointe Apartments in Marianna to our current work at Hilldale, Ridgecrest, Surrey, and Scott Manor Apartments. His continued involvement as a partner ensures his guidance will remain part of our future.

As the company continues to grow, Sarah will partner closely with the Vice President of Property Management, Whitney Foster, to support our Property Management, Compliance, and Community Engagement teams. This collaboration is an important part of our focus on strong teams, steady operations, and flourishing communities.

This year marks an important moment for ALCO. We move forward with gratitude for the leaders who have guided us this far and excitement for the leaders who will shape our future. Our mission and values remain at the heart of everything we do, and these transitions prepare us for continued growth and impact. Here’s to a new year, new leadership, and the next chapter of ALCO’s story!