Habitat Erie Appoints New Board Leadership
The local organization has named a new president and board member to guide its affordable housing initiatives.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in People
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Greater Erie Area Habitat for Humanity has appointed Dr. Elisa Konieczko as board president and Nadia Shabanza as a board member. These appointments aim to strengthen the organization's governance as it continues to support local families in achieving homeownership.
Why it matters
The board additions are intended to provide strategic oversight and expand affordable housing opportunities within the Erie community. These leaders will support the ongoing work of helping families prepare for the responsibilities of homeownership.
Habitat Erie has welcomed 10 new families into its homeownership program over the past two years. The organization is currently finalizing its sixth and seventh homes for participating families.
The players
Dr. Elisa Konieczko
She is a professor of biology at Gannon University and currently serves as the board president for the Greater Erie Area Habitat for Humanity.
Nadia Shabanza
She is the founder and principal designer of BeBe Design House and has been appointed as a new board member for the organization.
Greater Erie Area Habitat for Humanity
This local organization focuses on expanding affordable housing opportunities and supporting families through homeownership programs in Erie.
The details
Dr. Elisa Konieczko, a biology professor at Gannon University, takes on the role of board president, while interior designer Nadia Shabanza joins the board. Shabanza brings a decade of experience as a Family Partner, a background that is expected to support the organization's mission of providing stable housing.
Timeline
Nadia Shabanza has served as a Family Partner for the past 10 years.
Ten new families entered the homeownership program during the past 2 years.
Market Landscape
The organizational changes reflect a broader trend of non-profits strengthening local governance to manage increasing demand for housing services. These appointments mirror the structural standards used by Habitat for Humanity's global affordable housing model.
The transition in board leadership is expected to streamline local housing programs, potentially increasing the efficiency of home completions for residents. Local families interested in the homeownership program may find improved support systems as the board moves forward.
The takeaway
Effective board governance is crucial for non-profit organizations managing long-term capital projects like home construction. Residents looking to contribute to local housing efforts can explore volunteer opportunities or coaching roles to support future homeowners.
Further reading
For more information on organizational leadership, visit Erie People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Erie News Now - Your News Team.
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