A Grateful Farewell: ALEC CEO Lisa B. Nelson Announces Retirement

Dear Friends,

After 12 extraordinary years serving as Chief Executive Officer of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), I have made the decision to step down from my role effective December 31st of this year and transition to the next chapter in my life.

This decision comes with mixed emotions. Serving ALEC has been one of the greatest honors of my career. Together, we have strengthened and expanded an organization that remains firmly committed to the timeless principles of limited government, free markets, and federalism. During my tenure at ALEC, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated legislators, policy experts, private sector leaders, donors, and an exceptionally talented staff who believe deeply in our mission and work tirelessly to advance it.

When I reflect on these past 12 years, I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together. We have expanded ALEC’s reach, strengthened its financial foundation, increased member engagement, broadened our impact in the states, and deepened the relationships that make this organization so effective. Most importantly, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to equipping state leaders with ideas and policies that create opportunity, strengthen communities, and preserve the principles that have made our nation exceptional.

While I will be stepping away from the Chief Executive Officer role at the end of the year, I am committed to ensuring a seamless transition. To support the organization and its next generation of leadership, our National Chair and ALEC Executive Committee has asked that I remain involved in an advisory capacity, helping to provide continuity, institutional knowledge, and guidance as ALEC continues its important work.

Although it is never easy to leave a place that has meant so much to me, I do so with tremendous confidence in ALEC’s future. The organization is stronger today than at any point in its history, and I am proud to leave it in capable hands. Our Board of Directors has unanimously approved Jonathan Williams as ALEC Chief Executive Officer and Lisa Bowen as ALEC President, beginning January 1, 2027.  Both Jonathan and Lisa have been at ALEC for over 19 years respectively, know the organization inside and out and have been an integral part of our success. Together, we have an exceptional management team, an incredible and dedicated staff, a strong and engaged board, and a culture rooted in excellence, purpose, and service. Because of their commitment and leadership, I have no doubt that ALEC’s best days remain ahead.

To everyone who has supported me, challenged me, encouraged me, and partnered with me during this incredible journey, thank you. The friendships I have made, the lessons I have learned, and the successes we have achieved together will remain among the most meaningful experiences of my life.  And to those who have been by my side during my career – from serving at the RNC under Frank J. Fahrenkopf, Jr. and Bill Harris to working with William F. Buckley, Jr. at National Review to Newt Gingrich, who taught me so much about clarity of vision and the process of management – I am forever grateful.  Additionally, my private sector career working at AOL and Time Warner and Visa, which were both such cutting edge companies, gave me the perspectives needed to understand true innovation and leadership at the highest levels of corporate America.

While I may be stepping away from day-to-day leadership, my belief in the ALEC mission and my affection for this organization will never diminish. I have loved working at the intersection of business and policy and driving those essential policy solutions in the states. I will continue to champion its success and look forward to watching ALEC thrive for many years to come.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve. It has truly been the honor of a lifetime.

With gratitude,

Lisa B. Nelson
Chief Executive Officer
American Legislative Exchange Council