Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority (NRHA) Deputy Executive Director for Administration, Demetria Johnson, was a featured speaker at the Women’s Leadership Breakfast held in conjunction with the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) annual conference in Orlando, FL.
The event, titled “NAHRO for Women,” focused on uplifting women in the affordable housing arena where men tend to dominate.
Speaking to a packed audience of women from several housing authorities and organizations, Johnson, who was recently appointed to her position with NRHA, addressed her goals for accomplishing the Authority’s mission.
“I am transitioning into my role during a dynamic time,” said Johnson, “I have a three-fold purpose: evaluating NRHA departments to determine if they are sufficiently staffed to accomplish the agency’s goals; researching ways to bring additional revenue into the agency; and establishing strong working relationships with stakeholders to increase the effectiveness of our collaboration as we work together to increase the amount of affordable housing in Norfolk.”
NRHA Executive Director Nathan Simms and other staff also attended the event.
NAHRO is a membership organization of more than 26,000 housing and community development providers and professionals throughout the United States. NAHRO members create and manage affordable housing for low- and middle-income families, and support vibrant communities that enhance the quality of life for all. NAHRO members administer more than 3 million homes for more than 8 million people, according to its website.
A long-time NAHRO member, NRHA is a national leader in community revitalization and fostering sustainable mixed-income communities. As the largest redevelopment and housing authority in Virginia, NRHA is an important driver of the local economy.
“It was an honor to participate in the leadership breakfast and the NARHO conference overall,” Johnson said. “Having the opportunity to share information with colleagues in my field who have the same goals was a pleasure.”