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Building Hope Welcomes New Leadership to Address Rising Demand in Education Facilities

In a significant move aimed at enhancing its service capabilities, Building Hope, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving educational access through facility financing, real estate development, and operational services, has announced the appointment of William Quinby as its new Chair of the Board of Directors. This leadership change comes at a crucial time when the demand for quality educational facilities is on the rise, particularly as policies like the federal Education Tax Credit Freedom Program are set to give families more options.

New Leadership and Expanded Board

William Quinby succeeds Sheila Ryan-Macie, who has been a vital part of the organization for over 20 years. In this transitional period, Quinby also welcomes two new members to the board: Robert L. Chagares, the Co-founder and Chairman of High Street Logistics Properties, and Stephanie Nellons-Paige, the CEO of the Nellons Paige Group, Inc. Both new board members bring substantial expertise in real estate development and community investment, essential for fulfilling Building Hope's mission.

Bill Hansen, the President and CEO of Building Hope, expressed enthusiasm over Quinby's appointment, stating, “This marks an exciting new chapter for Building Hope.” He praises Quinby’s extensive experience in real estate development, affirming his capacity to lead the organization effectively.

Sheila Ryan-Macie's Legacy

Sheila Ryan-Macie's contributions have been significant, having served as Chair since 2021 and previously held key roles during her tenure that shaped the organization's strategic direction. Her dedication to promoting educational access and financial integrity laid the groundwork for the substantial growth Building Hope has experienced. “It has been one of the great privileges of my career to serve this organization and the communities it exists to support,” Ryan-Macie reflected on her exit. Her leadership has indeed been instrumental in ensuring that education remains accessible to all.

Meeting Growing Demand

The urgency for quality education options is becoming more pressing, driven by increasing family demand. With evolving school choice policies and significant funding mechanisms like the upcoming federal initiative, the need for adequate school facilities is vital. The new board structure, under Quinby’s leadership, is poised to advance this mission further, focusing on community development and educational infrastructure.

“Robert and Stephanie bring exactly the kind of experience and leadership that will strengthen Building Hope's capacity to serve schools and communities across the country,” Quinby noted, highlighting the value of their experience amidst the challenges ahead.

Expertise of New Board Members

Quinby himself has been part of the Building Hope Board since its inception, leveraging a rich background in architecture and development. His role as Vice Chairman at Savills US equips him with the necessary tools to guide the organization in strategic development initiatives effectively.

Chagares brings a wealth of experience from High Street Logistics Properties, where he has managed a substantial portfolio of real estate acquisitions and investments, boasting $6.3 billion in industrial properties. Prior to this, he held a senior position at the Trammell Crow Company, which reinforces his qualifications in understanding market demands and logistics.

On the other hand, Nellons-Paige has combined her extensive experience in government and education to address infrastructure and workforce development needs. Her leadership in various high-impact initiatives emphasizes the connection between educational facilities, workforce readiness, and long-term economic growth. She aims to leverage her role to broaden access to high-quality educational environments across the nation.

Commitment to Educational Equity

As Building Hope celebrates its successful history of supporting over $2 billion in charter school projects, it’s clear that the organization is built upon the belief that every child should have access to a great school, irrespective of geographic or economic barriers. Quinby, along with newly appointed board members, remains committed to bridging gaps in educational access through innovative and effective facility solutions, ensuring that every learner thrives in a supportive environment.

This change in leadership signifies more than just a structural shift; it's a commitment to adapt and grow in response to the evolving needs of families seeking quality education. Building Hope continues to focus on its core mission: creating spaces that foster learning and cultivate communities—an objective now more crucial than ever in today's shifting educational landscape.