“I’d like to say it’s an incredible honour to stand before you today as the new executive director of ISSA,” she said. “I am humbled, I am excited, and I am deeply grateful for the trust the board of directors has placed in me to lead the next chapter of the association.”
Althoff acknowledged the collective strength behind ISSA’s momentum, highlighting the work of “an exceptional ISSA and ISSA Charities team” whose efforts drive events, programs, advocacy and member support. Their passion, she said, is helping elevate global standards of health, safety and professionalism.
She also recognised the members, “the innovators, the problem solvers, the change makers” who continue to shape the cleaning and facility solutions sector. Looking ahead, she expressed confidence in ISSA’s direction, building on the work of former executive director John Barrett.
“The power of this association lies in its community, in our shared purpose, and our collective strength,” she said. “Together, we are going to keep pushing forward, reaching higher, and showing just how impactful the ISSA family can be.”
Honouring John Barrett
The meeting was also a tribute to Barrett, now chairman emeritus, whose decade-long tenure reshaped the association’s role and reputation. “Over the years, John has been so much more than an executive,” Althoff said. “He has been the heartbeat of ISSA, guiding this organisation with a rare blend of wisdom, courage and passion.”
Barrett responded with warmth, reminding members that “it’s always been about the members, and it’ll always be about the members.” He acknowledged the visionaries and future talent across the industry and noted that Althoff, who started at ISSA as a meeting planner 30 years ago, is now the first female executive director in ISSA’s 102-year history.
Major wins for ISSA Charities
Co-chair of the ISSA Charities Board, Ted Stark, delivered an update on the growing impact of ISSA Scholars, the ISSA Hygieia Network and Cleaning for a Reason, programs that support students, empower women and provide free home cleanings to cancer patients.
Stark also announced the promotion of Allison Hill Saba to director of ISSA Charities and thanked volunteers, donors and the wider ISSA community for their continued support.
Leadership and continuity
ISSA president Laurie Sewell closed the meeting, honouring outgoing board members and introducing the 2026 board. She also confirmed she would serve a second term. “Turns out I’m not going anywhere,” she said. “Yes, your fourth and fifth female president. Welcome to my sequel.”
Sewell reflected on the significance of having two women leading the association, alongside the broader importance of collaborative, people-focused leadership. She highlighted momentum across the association, including the success of VEO, growing member networks and stronger advocacy across the supply chain.
“Let’s keep elevating this industry, supporting one another, and making ISSA the place where talent, innovation and heart all come together,” she said. “Let’s make the sequel even better than the original.”
This article first appeared in CMM.
