September 17, 2026 Leadership, News
Jim Paterno Named Chair of Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia Board of Directors
Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia has appointed James (Jim) Paterno as chair of its Board of Directors, effective September 16, 2026.
Jim Paterno assumes the role of Chair as he enters his seventh year on the Habitat Philadelphia Board of Directors. | Photo by Cary Porter
Paterno succeeds Floyd Lebrón of Dale Corporation, who completed his two-year term as chair and is stepping down after nine years of dedicated service to the board.
Paterno is the founder of Stockton Real Estate Advisors, a Philadelphia-based real estate investment and advisory firm. During his board service, he has championed expanded access to affordable housing and helped connect the business community to Habitat Philadelphia’s mission.
“Every family deserves a safe, stable place to call home, and that’s what makes Habitat Philadelphia’s work so important,” Paterno said. “I’ve seen firsthand the impact of this mission through the dedication of our staff, volunteers, homeowners, donors, and community partners. I’m honored to serve as board chair and look forward to working together to help more Philadelphia families build stability and opportunity through affordable homeownership.”
A family celebrates the purchase of their Habitat home in West Philadelphia, August 2025. | Photo by John Stritzinger
A seasoned member of Habitat Philadelphia’s board, Paterno most recently served as vice chair and chair of the Resource Development Committee. In those roles, he helped strengthen fundraising efforts and advance strategic initiatives that increased the reach of Habitat Philadelphia’s affordable homeownership and critical home repair programs.
“Jim brings a deep commitment to our mission, a strong understanding of Philadelphia’s housing landscape, and a passion for helping families open the door to a brighter future,” said Corinne O’Connell, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia.
As board chair, Paterno will work alongside the Habitat Philadelphia community to advance the organization’s strategic priorities and support its continued growth. With 45 homes in its development pipeline and another 200 home repairs scheduled this year, Habitat is poised to build hope and community alongside hundreds more individuals and families.
Additional board changes
Executive Officers of the Board: Karen Black, Vice-Chair (May 8 Consulting); Jonathan Ellensworth, Secretary (Provident Bank); and Benjamin Johnson, Treasurer (Merrill Lynch Wealth Management).
New members joining the Board: Colton Heimer (Dugan Restoration); Cathy Lockyer Moulton (Thomas Wynne Apartments); and Dr. Wesley Proctor (Villanova University).
Stepping down from the Board: Floyd Lebrón (Dale Corporation), Elizabeth Morgan (Citizens Financial Group) and Matthew B. Kessler (Philadelphia Phillies). Thank you for building alongside us!