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HERNDON, Va. – The Associated Landscape Contractors of America regrets to announce that Debra Holder has resigned from her position as chief executive officer. The organizaiton notes that its history as an association would not have been the same were it not for Holder’s dedication for the past 25 years.
“Debra’s passion, vision, and enduring commitment have paved the way for countless accomplishments, lasting relationships, and ALCA’s taking the lead on the most important merger in the green industry association world,” says a statement released by the organization. “With Holder at the helm, ALCA has grown from a small association to a respected powerhouse. Membership has more than tripled, as has the annual budget and staffing. Also under her guidance, the ALCA sponsorship program was launched and became a huge success, as did the ALCA Educational Foundation (AEF), which met its goals far in advance of projections.”
Holder held several positions with ALCA during her tenure, including ALCA Ambassador, chief operating officer and, most recently, chief executive officer. The association notes, however, that Holder’s decision to resign stems from a desire to rededicate her time to family, friends and personal endeavors.
With reluctance, the members of ALCA’s Board of Directors have accepted her resignation. “There are two words I would use to describe Debra –shining star,” says ALCA President Kurt Kluznik. “No matter what she has taken on on behalf of ALCA, the result is nothing short of overwhelming success, and her star will continue to burn brightly in the years to come as ALCA continues to follow the path she has helped to set.”
Holder notes that her decision was difficult. “My 25 years with ALCA have been full of so many wonderful moments,” she comments “My resignation was a hard decision for me to make, but the right one, and at the right time, for both ALCA and me. There are many exciting changes and opportunities for ALCA, including the merger with the Professional Lawn Care Association of America.
“I have complete faith in the current staff to manage a smooth transition during the merger, and they have the energy and excitement to seize future opportunities,” she continues. “I am looking forward to spending more time with family and friends and taking time to ‘smell the green plants’. A ‘thank you’ to all the special people that I have met through the years in this wonderful green industry that have made my life rich with memories.”
Holder will remain on staff through the end of the year in a consulting capacity, making sure the transition is as seamless as possible. As ALCA moves ahead, Chief Operating Officer Tanya Tolpegin will become the interim CEO, while a nationwide search is conducted for a permanent CEO. The organizatoin wishes Holder every success moving forward and would like to celebrate her achievements over the last 25 years.