Leadership Changes Drive Affordable Housing Initiatives
The affordable housing sector is witnessing significant leadership changes, with key appointments and promotions at prominent organizations such as the New York City Housing Partnership, KeyBank Community Development Lending and Investment, the District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA), and Lawson. These moves reflect the sector’s commitment to affordable housing leadership and innovation, as experienced executives step into roles that will shape strategies and investments in communities across the U.S.
New York City Housing Partnership Appoints Molly Wasow Park as CEO
The New York City Housing Partnership, a major nonprofit dedicated to expanding affordable housing throughout the city, has named Molly Wasow Park as its new CEO. Park brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles, including commissioner of the New York City Department of Social Services—the nation’s largest municipal social service agency. Her career also encompasses senior positions at the Department of Homeless Services and the Department of Housing Preservation and Development.
According to Ron Moelis, chairman of the board, Park’s unique expertise is crucial for the organization’s mission. “Molly Park brings important experience and skills as the Housing Partnership faces new dimensions and challenges in providing greater access for more New Yorkers to safe and comfortable affordable housing,” said Moelis. He emphasized that her background combines a deep understanding of affordable multifamily residential development with a responsiveness to social needs, making her a valuable asset as the organization works alongside city, state, and federal agencies, as well as private-sector partners.
The Housing Partnership has played a pivotal role in the creation or preservation of more than 100,000 low- and moderate-income housing units across New York’s five boroughs. Leveraging over $11.1 billion in private financing and utilizing more than $550 million in subsidies, the group continues to drive transformative projects. Outgoing CEO Jamie Smarr will remain as president until the end of 2026 to ensure a smooth transition.
KeyBank Community Development Lending and Investment Expands Leadership
KeyBank’s Community Development Lending and Investment (CDLI) platform has made several strategic leadership appointments to further its affordable housing leadership. Naomi See has joined as a senior banker on the business development and investor relations team, based in Seattle. Her focus will be on strengthening institutional investor relationships and accelerating capital formation, particularly across low-income housing tax credits (LIHTCs) and state credits.
See’s role encompasses raising capital and supporting the sourcing, structuring, and syndication of investments. She will collaborate with teams in acquisitions, fund management, and originations to align investor demand with KeyBank’s growing pipeline of opportunities. In addition, Celia Smoot has been promoted to head of equity originations, where she will lead investment strategies and execution for the firm’s affordable housing equity pipeline. Smoot brings over two decades of experience in LIHTC investing, fund structuring, and community development finance.
These appointments build on earlier changes, including the promotion of Christina Knuckles to head of equity syndications and fund management in March. Knuckles, recognized for her instrumental role in shaping the platform’s growth, now leads the team as it continues to scale. Previously, Jon Burckin was named senior banker in equity distribution, further strengthening KeyBank’s position in the sector.
District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency Welcomes Shelynda Burney Brown
The DCHFA has appointed Shelynda Burney Brown as senior vice president of multifamily lending and neighborhood development. With more than 25 years of experience, Brown has overseen complex real estate development and equitable neighborhood investment initiatives throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Her work includes managing more than 4,200 housing units and representing over $950 million in development costs. Brown’s expertise is expected to enhance DCHFA’s mission to support affordable housing leadership and equitable community development in the nation’s capital.
Lawson Promotes Katherine Bradshaw to Controller
Virginia-based Lawson, which manages approximately 5,000 apartment units, has promoted Katherine Bradshaw to controller. Bradshaw will oversee accounting operations and financial reporting, supporting Lawson’s strategic growth as the company prepares for the retirement of long-serving controller Annette Gavrish. Since joining Lawson in 2023, Bradshaw has gained recognition for her skills in financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and compliance, with previous leadership roles at Armada Hoffler and Brillio.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Affordable Housing Leadership
These appointments and promotions signal a renewed focus on affordable housing leadership as organizations adapt to evolving market demands and opportunities. By placing experienced professionals in pivotal roles, these institutions aim to accelerate development, foster public-private partnerships, and deliver innovative solutions to the ongoing affordable housing crisis. As the sector continues to evolve, strong leadership will remain key to driving positive change and expanding access to affordable housing nationwide.
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