Athens Land Trust is proud to announce the appointment of Demetrius D. Jordan as its new Executive Director. This leadership transition comes at a pivotal moment, as the organization marks 30 years of sustainable, holistic, and equitable community development.
Demetrius D. Jordan brings his extensive experience in nonprofit leadership and strategic growth, work with community-focused initiatives to address systemic barriers to economic mobility, and a deep commitment to advancing the mission of Athens Land Trust. He succeeds Heather Benham, who stepped down in June 2024 after leading the organization with dedication and vision over the past decade. During the six-month interim period, Vanna Cure – previously Vice President of Athens Land Trust’s Board of Directors – skillfully guided the organization while helping to steer a nationwide search for the new Executive Director.
“We are thrilled to welcome Demetrius to our team at such a meaningful juncture,” said Sarah Yates Sutherland, Chair of the Board of Directors. “His leadership will undoubtedly help us build on three decades of impact while charting an innovative course for the future of conservation and community development in Athens-Clarke County and throughout Georgia.”
With two decades of experience driving change in partnership with nonprofit, public, and private stakeholders, Jordan is poised to lead Athens Land Trust into its next phase of growth. He previously served as Vice President of Regional Development at United Way of Greater Atlanta where he spearheaded initiatives that raised over $36 million for community programs, leading regional teams to expand access to critical services in education, housing, and health.
“I am honored to join Athens Land Trust and to work alongside such a passionate and dedicated team,” said Jordan. “As we celebrate 30 years of achievements, I look forward to building on the incredible foundation laid by Athens Land Trust’s past and present staff and community partnerships and leading the organization toward even greater impact in the years ahead.”
Vanna Cure, who guided Athens Land Trust through the interim period and executive search, reflected on her tenure: “Serving as Interim Executive Director has deepened my appreciation for the unwavering support of our community. I am confident that Demetrius will carry forward our mission with energy, vision, and dedication.”
Since its founding in December 1994, Athens Land Trust has developed and stewarded affordable housing for hundreds of families in Athens-Clarke County, protected more than 20,500 acres of ecologically important land across Georgia, and built resources and infrastructure to support equitable paths to opportunity for youth, low-wealth entrepreneurs, and historically excluded neighborhood residents.