Rosalyn Merrick Takes Leadership Role At Atlanta Habitat For Humanity

Atlanta Habitat for Humanity has announced the appointment of Rosalyn Merrick as President and CEO, effective immediately. Merrick, who joined the organization as chief development officer in November 2020, received unanimous approval from the Board of Directors. Her appointment follows former CEO Alan Ferguson's departure to pursue new opportunities in affordable housing.

Jeremy Silverman, Board Vice Chair and partner at Alston & Bird LLP, expressed gratitude for Ferguson's leadership. "Alan helped Atlanta Habitat secure $8.4 million in funding commitments and positioned the organization to receive millions more," Silverman said. Ferguson's next role remains confidential for now.

A native of Atlanta and a Georgia State University graduate, Merrick brings 24 years of experience to her new role. Her career includes leadership positions at Georgia Community Foundation, Mount Vernon School, The Ron Clark Academy, and United Way of Greater Atlanta. During her tenure as chief development officer, Merrick led record-breaking fundraising efforts, including a $13.5 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott in March 2022.

In January 2023, Merrick was promoted to executive vice president and chief operations officer. This role allowed her to oversee eight departments: Family Services, IT, ReStore, Construction, Real Estate, Site Planning & Design, Warehouse, and Facilities. Under her leadership, Atlanta Habitat scaled its operations to serve 221 families in 2023 and aims to serve over 230 families this year.

"We recognize the urgent need to deliver housing alternatives for working families who have traditionally been squeezed out of home ownership opportunities," said Merrick. "I believe my varied experience at Atlanta Habitat uniquely positions me to guide our mission further."

As a leading nonprofit affordable housing developer in Georgia, Atlanta Habitat is committed to its strategic plan. This includes expanding Browns Mill Village, the organization's first mixed-income community located on 31 acres south of downtown Atlanta.

"We’re committed to our vision to build homes, people and communities — even as we face rising costs of land and building materials," Merrick stated. "I grew up in this city and I’m honoured to put my talents to work as we empower families to break poverty cycles by providing quality, affordable homes in safe, vibrant neighbourhoods."

About Atlanta Habitat for Humanity

Atlanta Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit dedicated to transforming generations through homeownership. As one of Habitat for Humanity International’s largest affiliates, it has made an estimated $40 million impact on affordable housing in Atlanta and South Fulton County over the past five years. Since its inception in 1983, the organization has served more than 2,700 families with home purchase, rehab and repair services.