Rick Haughey
Executive Director, Terwilliger Center for Housing, Urban Land Institute
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2024 Housing Opportunity Conference
Agenda
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2024-02-20T11:30:00 - 2024-02-20T13:30:00 America/Chicago |
Opening Keynote - State of US Housing Markets |
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2024-02-20T13:30:00 - 2024-02-20T14:00:00 America/Chicago |
Networking Break |
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2024-02-20T14:00:00 - 2024-02-20T15:15:00 America/Chicago |
Construction Disrupters |
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2024-02-20T14:00:00 - 2024-02-20T15:15:00 America/Chicago |
Homeless to Housed: Defining the Value & Impact of Deeply Affordable Housing |
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2024-02-20T14:00:00 - 2024-02-20T15:15:00 America/Chicago |
Innovative Partnerships to Leverage Land for More Housing |
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2024-02-20T15:15:00 - 2024-02-20T15:45:00 America/Chicago |
Networking Break |
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2024-02-20T15:45:00 - 2024-02-20T17:00:00 America/Chicago |
A Balancing Act – Leveraging Decarbonization to Create & Protect Housing Affordability |
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2024-02-20T15:45:00 - 2024-02-20T17:00:00 America/Chicago |
A Look Back on the Latest State and Local Housing Policy Innovations |
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2024-02-20T15:45:00 - 2024-02-20T17:00:00 America/Chicago |
Addressing Housing Needs through Equitable Transit-Oriented Development and Suburban Retrofits |
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2024-02-20T17:30:00 - 2024-02-20T19:00:00 America/Chicago |
Opening Reception |
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2024-02-21T07:30:00 - 2024-02-21T08:00:00 America/Chicago |
Networking Breakfast |
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2024-02-21T08:00:00 - 2024-02-21T09:30:00 America/Chicago |
General Session: Austin Past, Present, and Future |
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2024-02-21T09:30:00 - 2024-02-21T10:00:00 America/Chicago |
Networking Break |
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2024-02-21T10:00:00 - 2024-02-21T11:15:00 America/Chicago |
Financing Tools to Make Affordable Deals Pencil |
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2024-02-21T10:00:00 - 2024-02-21T11:15:00 America/Chicago |
Future-Proofing Communities |
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2024-02-21T10:00:00 - 2024-02-21T11:15:00 America/Chicago |
The Role of Housing in Creating Vibrant Urban Communities |
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2024-02-21T11:30:00 - 2024-02-21T13:00:00 America/Chicago |
Closing General Session |
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2024-02-21T13:30:00 - 2024-02-21T17:00:00 America/Chicago |
2nd Street and Seaholm Districts (Walking Tour) |
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2024-02-21T13:30:00 - 2024-02-21T17:00:00 America/Chicago |
Austin Homeless Solutions |
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2024-02-21T13:30:00 - 2024-02-21T17:00:00 America/Chicago |
Mueller Redevelopment |
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2024-02-21T17:00:00 - 2024-02-21T18:30:00 America/Chicago |
Closing Reception |
Thank you for attending the 2024 Housing Opportunity Conference. The 2025 Housing Opportunity Conference will take place from February 25-26th, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. We look forward to seeing you there!
Hilton Austin 500 E 4th St Austin, TX 78701 UNITED STATES
Speakers
Paulette Gibbins
Executive Director, ULI Austin
Panelist
Ben Evans
U.S. Green Building Council
Ben Evans is federal legislative director at the U.S. Green Building Council, helping lead the council’s advocacy work in Washington promoting green buildings and sustainable communities. Ben brings more than 20 years of experience working in politics, government affairs and communications, mostly in the energy sector. He has extensive experience developing policy, creating strategic advocacy campaigns, building stakeholder coalitions, and engaging with Congress and the executive branch. He has been quoted or published in national media outlets such as The New York Times, CNN, Politico and Reuters. Prior to joining USGBC, Ben was vice president of public affairs at the Alliance to Save Energy, overseeing the Alliance’s work to advance energy efficiency policy, including government affairs and policy communications. Prior to that, Ben was the director of public affairs at the National Biodiesel Board, the biodiesel trade association. Previously, he was a reporter covering politics in the Washington bureau of The Associated Press and at Congressional Quarterly, where he covered the landmark Energy Policy Act of 2005. A native of Memphis, Tenn., Ben has a master’s degree from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism and a bachelor’s degree in political science from the College of Charleston. He lives in Baltimore with his wife, two children and a golden retriever.
Moderator
Nina Janopaul
Capital Strategies Consulting LLC
Ms. Janopaul founded Capital Strategies Consulting LLC (CSC) to support the expansion of affordable housing and housing justice. CSC offers services to nonprofits, government agencies, faith-based, educational and philanthropic institutions in the areas of executive leadership, capacity building, strategic planning, public policy, real estate development and finance.
Previously, Ms. Janopaul was President/CEO of the Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing (APAH) - a non-profit, regional, award-winning, affordable housing developer. Ms. Janopaul was featured on the cover of Affordable Housing Finance Magazine as one of 10 Wonder Women in affordable housing nationwide (March 2019). She has been a frequent speaker on panels and programs. During her tenure, Ms. Janopaul grew the staff from 3 with a focus on Arlington to 38 with projects throughout the region. At her departure, APAH had a portfolio of 19 multifamily rental properties valued at more than $500 million, plus another 10+ projects in various stages of development. Ms. Janopaul led the board and staff with a deep commitment to mission, establishing a resident services program and racial equity program during her tenure.
Ms. Janopaul earned a Bachelor of Arts Magna Cum Laude from Harvard University. She has been active on numerous boards, study panels and commissions, including currently serving on the boards of Goodwin Living, Virginia Diocesan Homes and the Urban Land Institute’s Terwilliger Advisory Board.
Panelist
Donahue Peebles III
Executive Vice President, The Peebles Corporation
Donahue Peebles III is a native of Washington D.C. and a graduate of Columbia University, where he earned his Bachelor of Economics. His early executive work includes managing the development of office, hospitality, and condominium projects, with notable achievements such as Manhattan's 108 Leonard in his portfolio. As the Executive Vice President at The Peebles Corporation, Donahue leads the company's day-to-day efforts in acquisitions and development, overseeing an experienced team focused on public-private partnerships that consistently exceed nationwide public benefit, diversity, and inclusion goals.
In 2017, Donahue founded Legacy as a strategic initiative for The Peebles Corporation to fulfill its affordable housing goals across the national portfolio, particularly in metropolitan cities where the need is critical. He actively serves the communities of Washington D.C., New York City, and Miami through various philanthropic endeavors that benefit and expose youth to opportunities in entrepreneurship. Donahue has been featured in various publications for his significant contributions to affordable housing development.
Panelist
Anna Lake-Smith
Senior Design Manager, Foundation Communities
Anna Lake-Smith, Senior Design Manager, works with the Foundation Communities development team to take projects through feasibility, design, and construction, including coordinating with the Sustainability, Property, and Asset Management teams. Anna brings a wide range of design experience, from residential interiors to citywide planning strategies. Anna holds a dual MS in Urban Design and MS in Community/Regional Planning from The University of Texas at Austin, and a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from Wellesley College.
Keynote Speaker
Henry Cisneros
American Triple I Partners
As the founder and Chairman of American CityVista, CEO Henry Cisneros brings executive and urban planning experience to the homebuilding joint venture he formed with Kaufman and Broad in August 2000. Previously, Cisneros was President and Chief Operating Officer of Univision Communications in Los Angeles, the Spanish-language broadcaster that has become the fifth-most-watched television network in the nation. From 1993 to 1997, Cisneros served as the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. As a member of the President's Cabinet, Secretary Cisneros was assigned American's housing and community development portfolio. He is credited with initiating a major revitalization of many of the nation's public housing developments and with formulating policies that have contributed to today's record homeownership rate. Prior to joining the Cabinet, he was Chairman of Cisneros Asset Management Company, a fixed income money management firm operating nationally.
In 1981, Cisneros became the fist Hispanic American Mayor of a major U.S. city. During his four terms in office, Cisneros helped rebuild the city's economic base and created jobs through massive infrastructure and downtown improvements, making San Antonio one of the most progressive cities in the nation. In 1984, he was interviewed by the Democratic Presidential Nominee as a potential candidate for Vice President, and in 1986 was selected the Outstanding Mayor in the nation by City and State magazine. Mr. Cisneros has served as President of the National League of Cities, Chairman of the National Civic League, Deputy Chair of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, and as a board member of the Rockefeller Foundation.
Panelist
Roger Sherman
Urban Innovation and Impact Initiative, Gensler
Roger Sherman, FAIA leads the Permanent Supportive and Affordable Housing Initiative—colloquially known as The Stone Soup Group--at Gensler LA. Since joining Gensler, he has authored affordable and supportive housing projects throughout Los Angeles, for for-profit and non-profit clients including Skid Row Housing Trust, Clifford Beers, Salvation Army, Volunteers of America, United Way, SOLA Impact, Dignity Moves, Logos Faith-based Development and City of LA. His project “Urban Awning” won a coveted PA Award from Architecture Magazine and a World-Changing Ideas Award from Fast Company in 2021.
A solo practitioner for 25+ years prior to joining Gensler, Roger’s work has been featured at TEDx and MoMA, in Newsweek and Fast Company and on CNN, and at the Venice and Rotterdam Architecture Biennales. Roger is a former Co-founder of cityLAB, an urban design thinktank at UCLA, where he is also an Adjunct Professor. A Senior Fellow at UToronto’s Global Cities Institute and at the NewCities Foundation, he is author of 3 books, including “LA Under the Influence: The Hidden Logic of Urban Property”, “RE American Dream: New Housing Prototypes for Los Angeles”. A former Harvard Wheelwright Fellow, he has taught and lectured widely, including at ASU, Harvard, Princeton, UC Berkeley, Michigan and Syracuse universities.
Panelist
David Bowers
VP & Market Leader, Mid-Atlantic Market & Sr. Advisor, Faith-Based Development Initiative, Enterprise Community Partners
David Bowers is vice president, Mid-Atlantic market and senior advisor, Faith-Based Development Initiative for Enterprise Community Partners. David’s work includes facilitating affordable housing and community development transactions, policy implementation and Community development program work in collaboration with public and private sector stakeholders in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia. David leads a team that provides access to financing, capacity building and technical assistance to local developers and community-based organizations and participates with local coalitions engaging local governments to increase resources and enhance policies that support affordable housing and community development. David’s work leading Enterprise’s national Faith-Based Development Initiative work includes strategic planning, program design, relationship cultivation with religious organization stakeholders and fundraising to support multi-year faith-based development cohorts in jurisdictions across the country, including Atlanta, Baltimore, Miami, New York, Prince George’s County, MD, Seattle and Washington, D.C.
Panelist
David Currie
Builder Relations Manager, Taurus Investment Holdings, LLC
David Currie is a prominent figure in sustainable living and has extensive experience in real estate development. He has made significant contributions at Taurus Investment Holdings, promoting the Austin, Tx community, Whisper Valley, and later joined EcoSmart Solution to focus on renewable energy and green technologies. Currie's dedication to sustainability and effective communication has established him as a thought leader in the space, inspiring others to adopt eco-friendly practices and shaping the future of sustainable communities.
Panelist
Kelly Boyer
Managing Director, Jonathan Rose Companies
Kelly Boyer, President, Rose Community Capital (RCC). Kelly joined RCC in May, 2017 as an Originator and established the Rose California office. In her current role she manages a team of originators, underwriters and servicers that grow and service a book of multifamily real estate assets. Prior to joining RCC, Kelly created the FHA Multifamily loan product for Citibank, N.A. Community Capital and served as their FHA Chief Underwriter. Kelly is an affordable housing and Section 8 expert and has held many positions in the housing sector over the past 20 years. She is particularly proud of the work she did while serving as the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Hub Director for the LA office from July 2009-2012. While at HUD, Kelly was responsible for management of HUD’s Multifamily Housing Department with more than 1,500 properties, $4 billion in commitments and 150,000 units of affordable and market rate rental housing in the 2nd largest Hub in the country.
Kelly has always focused upon local, state and federal agency collaboration and facilitated the creation of several new programs for the benefit of low- to moderate-income families. Notably, the LA Hub pioneered HUD’s Heavy 223(f)/mod rehab program; developed and marketed trust fund model to facilitate FHA Section 236 and 202 refinances; developed and distributed GET Green Toolkit to encourage green retrofits of existing portfolio and created Green Energy Savings Program. Kelly served as an Inaugural member of FHA’s National Loan Committee and served as a member of the FHA Commissioner’s Risk Mitigation team. Prior to joining HUD, Kelly worked for Ohio Capital Corporation for Housing (OCCH) where she started her career as an Asset Manager and eventually become In-House Counsel.
Moderator
Laura Beuerlein
Executive Vice President Marketing, Heritage Title Company of Austin, Inc.
A Texas native, Laura Anderson Beuerlein holds a B.A. and a B.S. degree from the University of Texas at Austin. Laura joined Heritage Title in 1986 as a commercial marketing officer and became Senior Vice President of Marketing and owner/partner in 1989. Now serving as the Executive Vice President of Marketing, Laura specializes in providing a full range of title insurance services to a wide variety of clientele.
With experience in all types of commercial property, it is through Laura’s expertise in the multi-family investment property arena that Heritage Title has become one of the premier title companies in the country to handle both single asset and portfolio transactions. Laura’s client list is heavily weighted with both institutional and private investors. With a commitment to superior customer service, Laura has helped ensure that Heritage clients are provided with thorough, extensive market research and information that is second to none.
Active in business, civic and charitable activities, Laura is a longtime board member of the National Multi-Family Housing Council and has served several terms on the NMHC Executive Committee as the Chair of Membership. She currently serves on the NMHC PAC Board. Laura also holds leadership roles on both a local and national level for the Urban Land Institute. She has served several terms as a Vice Chair of Programs and currently serves as Vice Chair for ULI’s Multi-Family Silver Council while working for all six product councils. For the ULI Austin chapter, Laura serves on the Advisory Council and is also a part of the Partnership Forum for Young Leaders. She served five terms on the Executive Committee of the Real Estate Council of Austin, including a Board of Directors position for 22 years and as secretary of the Board in 2001. Laura is a founding member of the Austin Chapter of Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW), is a current board member of IBC Bank, and a former board member of the Austin Chamber of Commerce.
Laura was the Co-Chair of the Finance Council for the United Way of Austin, and past President of the West Austin Youth Association. She is a former Board Member, Director and/or Officer for: KLRU/PBS, the Producer’s Circle and Friends of Austin City Limits; Big Brothers/Big Sisters, the American Cancer Society, the Business Council of St. Edward’s University, Zachary Scott Theatre and the Blanton Museum of Art.
Laura is also currently involved with the University of Texas at Austin and is serving in various leadership roles including the following: Executive Committee for the UT Chancellor’s Council, Associate Council Member and programs committee member for the Real Estate and Finance Council (REFIC) at the McCombs School of Business, the Parent Council for the College of Liberal Arts (COLA) and the Board of Directors and Development Council for the UT Elementary School, a charter school in East Austin. Laura also serves on the President’s Council and Development Committee for the University of Texas Dell Medical School and the new Seton teaching hospital.
In addition, she currently serves on the Board of Directors of Alzheimer’s Texas as the Vice President and has recently joined the Board of Trustees for the Seton Fund. Laura was recently honored by the Real Estate Council of Austin with their highest award for service and leadership with the Commendation of Excellence Award. Laura and her husband Steve have three boys: William, James and Richard.
Panelist
Kristi Stotts
Shareholder, Winstead PC
Kristi E. Stotts is a shareholder in Winstead's Real Estate Development & Investments Practice Group. Kristi’s practice is focused on real estate development, with an emphasis on structuring and administering residential, mixed-use and office condominiums, and residential and mixed-use communities. Kristi represents developers in their administration of property owner associations. Kristi also has experience in a variety of commercial real estate transactions including drafting acquisition and disposition contracts, easements and license agreements.
Moderator
David Steinwedell
Executive Board Chair and Founder, Texas Housing Conservancy
David H. Steinwedell is a 35-year veteran of the commercial real estate industry and has worked in a variety of disciplines including public and private investment management, acquisitions, debt, capital markets, investment banking and asset management. David is CEO and Board Chair of Affordable Central Texas, the sponsor and investment manager of the $400 million, Austin Housing Conservancy Fund in Austin, TX. Over his career, David has completed over $15 billion in transactions across all property types and as part of private equity funds, REITs and other investment vehicles. A graduate of Hamilton College, David currently serves as past chair of the Austin Economic Development Corporation board and has served on the boards of National Association of Real Estate Investment Managers (NAREIM), ULI Austin and Atlanta, The Trust for Public Land and the Tritt Foundation.
Panelist
Nicole Nosek
Chair of the Board, Texans for Reasonable Solutions
Nicole Nabulsi Nosek spent 15 years working in senior roles, from co-campaign manager to communications director, on American campaigns at the federal, state and local level. To date, Nicole and the organization have successfully worked with legislators and coalitions to enact two landmark land use laws in the state of Texas (3rd party Review) and the city of Austin (three homes bi-right on one lot). She grew passionate about housing while she worked as a paralegal making just below $50,000 per year, where she could only afford to live with a family with a baby along with another roommate. She recognized the role limited supply had on not only on the lower income, but the missing middle as well. This led her to work and volunteer for housing causes since 2015 .
In 2018, Nicole co-managed and won one of the most competitive American campaigns for Congress. She graduated from U.C. Berkeley with a B.S. in Political Science and B.A. in Rhetoric. She is the Chair of the Austin Habitat for Humanity Advocacy Committee. She resides in greater Austin, TX with her two kids and husband.
Panelist
Alex Ohrn
Managing Director, Hines
Alex is a Managing Director and local lead for Hines in Austin, responsible for the execution and management of development and acquisition projects in Austin and San Antonio. He joined Hines in 2018 and has helped build a pipeline of over 1.6 million square feet of new office and multifamily projects. Notable projects include ‘T3 Eastside’, a 100,000 square foot mixed-use office project in East Austin, Hines’ first heavy timber project to feature multifamily units, ‘Varenna Lakeside’, a 336-unit multifamily project in Georgetown, and ‘Retreat at Easton Park’, a 349-unit multifamily project in SE Austin. Alex earned his MBA from the University of Texas, and his BA in Economics from Arizona State University.
Moderator
Hannah Rangel
Vice President, Built Environment, Downtown Austin Alliance
Hannah Rangel joined the Downtown Austin Alliance as Vice President, Built Environment in June 2023. In her role, Hannah oversees the Built Environment priority of the strategic plan and actively assists in ensuring that the organization’s overall mission and vision are achieved. This includes directly leading development and land use policy efforts, ensuring that codes and policies support downtown’s growth and economic development while also meeting goals for diverse housing, affordability, storefront business, preservation, and cultural venues.
Prior to joining DAA, Hannah’s 20-year career has spanned residential and mixed-use real estate development in Austin and in Los Angeles, placemaking through value capture strategies in San Francisco, and historic preservation advocacy at a national scale from Washington D.C. Throughout her career, Hannah has pursued her “passion for place” and the belief that crafting our built environment comes with immense responsibility. Hannah received her BA in Anthropology from Pomona College and an MA in urban planning from the USC Price School of Public Policy. Hannah currently serves on ULI Austin’s Affordability Strategic Council and the Urban Local Membership Council.
Keynote Speaker
Daryl Fairweather
Chief Economist, REDFIN
Daryl Fairweather is the chief economist of Redfin. Prior to joining Redfin she was a senior economist at Amazon working on problems related to employee engagement and managing a team of analysts. During the housing crisis, Daryl worked as a researcher at the Boston Fed studying why homeowners entered foreclosure. Daryl received her Bachelor’s of Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and received her Ph.D. and Master’s degrees in economics at the University of Chicago where she specialized in behavioral economics.
Panelist
Annick Beaudet
Mobility Officer, City of Austin
For approximately three decades Annick Beaudet has strongly influenced an innovative and equitable mobility future for Austin. At the intersections of transportation, land use, equity, sustainability and public health, her work is realized through multiple city plans, programs, policies and projects. In addition to Annick’s planning practice, she also has mentored and inspired multiple planners and engineers during her career in public service. Annick holds a Bachelor of Arts in Geography and a Master of Public Administration from UT Austin and Penn State, respectively and has called Austin home for over 40 years.
Panelist
Katherine Groves
VP, Texas Market Manager, Community Development Banking, PNC Bank
At PNC, Ms. Groves is responsible for the team dedicated to strengthening low- and moderate-income communities in Texas through community development financing and programmatic initiatives, including philanthropy, financial education, and community engagement. She leads the team responsible for producing CRA-eligible community development lending and investment in Texas, with a focus on community development financial institutions (CDFIs), affordable housing developers, and nonprofits serving majority low- and moderate-income communities.
She is also responsible for leading the Texas implementation of PNC’s $88 billion Community Benefits Plan announced March 2021 that will provide $47 billion in home lending; $26.5 billion in loans to small businesses; $14.5 billion in community development loans, including at least $400 million for community development financial institutions; and $500 million in charitable giving. This Plan also includes a $1.5 Billion commitment to address systemic racism through the deployment of capital and programs that provide economic opportunity for communities of color across the U.S.
Ms. Groves joined the bank in 2022 with over 15 years of experience in the community development sector in both Austin, TX and Washington, DC. She most recently served as the Director of Loan Originations for the Southwest Region for Capital Impact Partners, a national Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). She previously held roles in the public and private sectors, beginning her career in public sector management consulting.
Born in Austin and raised in Round Rock, TX, she received a BBA from the McCombs School of Business, University of Texas at Austin, and a BA in Government, University of Texas at Austin, and a MPAff from the LBJ School of Public Affairs, University of Texas at Austin.
Panelist
Steve PonTell
Partner, Parity Development
Steve has a long track record in community and economic development. Having spent the last ten years as the President and CEO of National Community Renaissance (National CORE), Steve has been a leader and innovator in introducing new solutions to our Nation’s housing crisis.
During the early stages of the pandemic Steve created the Transform So Cal initiative which as a partner with SCAG, SANDAG, all seven Counties, all the major ISPs and leaders from health care, education and many other sectors, has played a leading role in ending the digital divide in Southern California. Transform So Cal has also worked to create locally sources PPE to address the instability of the international supply chain working with LACARE, IEHP and the Hospital Association of Southern California and they have set the groundwork to ensure stable supply for the next significant event that hits the region.
Since leaving National CORE, Steve has joined the Webb Family to address the critical role economic development plays in creating opportunities for wealth creation in the minority community. The Webb’s led the movement to parity within the McDonald’s organization leading to the creation of 200 successful Black owned franchises across the Country. They are working together to create business opportunities for minority entrepreneurs and transformative community revitalization in some of our most challenging neighborhoods. In 2023, Steve and The Webb’s acquired Silver Creek Modular, a modular construction company, of which Steve is currently the CEO.
Steve’s entire career has been built on successful public private partnerships and he is continuously facilitating efforts for successful community transformation.
Steve lives in Rancho Cucamonga with his wife Victoria, they have two daughters Erin and Grace and Grandson Max.
Panelist
Claudia Lima
Executive Vice President, Supportive Housing Fund, SDS Capital Group
Claudia Lima joined SDS in 2023 as Executive Vice President of the SDS Supportive Housing Fund, a highly innovative Impact fund that provides construction financing for multifamily supportive housing projects in California. Ms. Lima drives the investment approval and closing process and leads the asset management activities for the fund. Prior to SDS, Ms. Lima was the Managing Director of the Community Lending and Investments unit at CIT Bank, a division of First Citizens Bank, covering twenty-two states. There she oversaw a team of underwriters for community development loans and equity investments which included Low Income Housing Tax Credit Funds (LIHTC), Affordable Housing Preservation Funds, Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs), Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), as well as construction and perm loans for affordable housing and community facilities. Other previous roles include Executive Director of LISC LA, one of the largest CDFIs in the nation, where she was responsible for overseeing the lending, equity and grant making activities covering Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties and VP of Project Finance and Treasurer for a prominent national developer of community facilities where she led efforts to secure financing for new construction and rehab projects nationwide. Ms. Lima began her career in finance with Prudential Financial where she held professional licenses to transact municipal securities and mutual funds. Ms. Lima holds a Bachelors degree in Business Administration from the USC Marshall School of Business, a Masters degree in Community Economic Development from Southern New Hampshire University, and has completed the USC Ross Program in Real Estate.
Panelist
Lila Valencia
City Demographer, City of Austin Housing Department
Dr. Lila Valencia is Austin’s City Demographer. She leads the Demographics & Data team at the Planning Department and produces population estimates and projections to support the planning and decision-making of city departments, local businesses and organizations, and the community at large. Lila is an applied demographer with over 15 years of experience in quantitative and qualitative analysis in both the public and private sectors. Before her role at the City, Lila was a senior demographer at the Texas Demographic Center where she monitored and reported demographic and socioeconomic trends to inform policymaking and planning for the state of Texas. She managed product development for the Center and led 2020 Census coordination efforts with varying stakeholders across the state. Previously, Lila served as senior research analyst and complaint specialist at the City of Austin’s Office of the Police Monitor where she fielded complaints of police misconduct allegations and produced analysis and annual reports documenting these allegations. Lila holds a Ph.D. in Applied Demography from the University of Texas at San Antonio, a Master’s from the College of William & Mary in Virginia, and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin. Lila has lived in Austin for over 25 years and enjoys Austin’s green spaces, live music, and cultural events with her husband Michael, daughter Ada, and their family pet Amaya.
Moderator
Sean Garretson
Pegasus Planning and Development
Sean joined Stantec after managing his own planning and development firm that focused on economic development, urban planning, revitalization, feasibility studies, affordable housing, and land development across the U.S. He has built numerous mixed-use and mixed-income projects in Central Texas and leads a nonprofit affordable housing organization in East Austin. He has collaborated on large-scale Innovation projects and small-scale revitalization projects across many states including Texas, Florida, Mississippi, Idaho, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, California, and Washington. Sean speaks English and French fluently and can speak conversational Spanish. He also learned Swahili and Kirundi while working in Burundi, East Africa with the Peace Corps.
Keynote Speaker
Ron Terwilliger
Chairman, Terwilliger Pappas Multifamily Partners
Ron Terwilliger is Chairman Emeritus of Trammell Crow Residential Company, a national residential real estate company and the largest developer of multifamily housing in the U.S. for several decades during his tenure as CEO.
Ron is an honor graduate of the United States Naval Academy. After serving five years in the Navy, he received his MBA degree with High Distinction from the Harvard Graduate School of Business where he was elected a Baker Scholar.
Ron is past Chairman of the Urban Land Institute and currently serves as a Trustee. He is also Chairman Emeritus of the Wharton Real Estate Center. Ron is additionally past Chairman of the International Board of Directors of Habitat for Humanity and currently chairs Habitat’s Global Development Council. Ron is past Chairman of the Enterprise Community Partners Board of Trustees. He also serves as Chairman of the Board of the U. S. Naval Academy Foundation and is a member of the Boards of the Naval War College Foundation, the “I Have a Dream” Foundation and the Bipartisan Policy Center, where he chairs the J. Ronald Terwilliger Center for Housing Policy.
Ron established the ULI Terwilliger Center for Housing with his $10 million gift to the Urban Land Institute. Overall, he has made philanthropic contributions of over $220 million to housing related nonprofits.
Ron has received numerous inductions and awards: the National Association of Home Builders Hall of Fame, National Housing Conference’s Housing Leader of the Year Award, the United States Naval Academy’s Distinguished Graduate Award, and the Horatio Alger Award, to name a few.
Panelist
Alison Satt
Vice President and Division Manager, Swinerton
Alison Satt is Vice President and Division Manager overseeing the Swinerton Austin office. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Purdue University, Alison worked her way up in the construction industry and attained her Professional Engineering License before joining Swinerton in 2016. In her tenure from Project Manager to Division Manager, Alison worked primarily on core and shell office, affordable housing, and multi-family residential projects; and is known for creating fair and honest environments where project partners function as one efficient and effective team, from preconstruction to punch list. Alison and her husband reside in Austin with their two young children. She is passionate about maintaining a healthy lifestyle and outside of work you will find her swimming, running or training for her next triathlon.
Panelist
Rosanne Haggerty
President and CEO, Community Solutions
Rosanne Haggerty, President and Chief Executive Officer of Community Solutions, is an internationally recognized leader in developing innovative strategies to end homelessness. Community Solutions assists communities throughout the US and internationally in implementing systems that measurably end homelessness and change the conditions that produce it. Their large-scale initiatives include the 100,000 Homes Campaign and Built for Zero. Earlier Rosanne founded and led Common Ground Community, a
pioneer in the development of supportive housing models and other research based practices that end homelessness.
Panelist
Sally Gaskin
President, SGI Ventures, Inc.
Sally Gaskin is the President of SGI Ventures, Inc., a developer, and tax credit and private activity bond consultant. SGI Ventures, Inc. has been active in the affordable housing industry since 1996. Ms. Gaskin is a founding board member and former Board President of the Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing providers (TAAHP). Combined, Ms. Gaskin has developed and co-developed over 960 affordable family and senior units and is currently in the process of developing two new developments, Cady Lofts and The Roz. Both are Permanent Supportive Housing communities with 100 units each, dedicated to serving formerly chronically homeless residents in Austin.
Before entering the affordable housing industry in 1996, Ms. Gaskin was the Director of Governmental Services for Summit National Realty, a SAMDA contractor for the Resolution Trust Corporation (RTC). Ms. Gaskin directed the firm’s contract responsibilities for restructuring and liquidating assets. From 2008 to 2018, Ms. Gaskin was a Manager and Senior Asset Manager with the FDIC in the Risk Share Management Group, with oversight responsibilities for loss share contracts between the FDIC and banks that purchased failed banks during the 2008 financial crisis.
Panelist
Dillon Lorda
AEW Capital Management, L.P.
Mr. Lorda is a Director and Senior Portfolio Manager within AEW’s Private Equity Group, responsible for co-managing the AEW Essential Housing Fund (EHF), which focuses exclusively on multi-family investment. Prior to joining AEW, Mr. Lorda was a Managing Member of Conrad Investment Management, where he utilized research-based metrics to target specific segments of the multifamily sector that were expected to have resilient income potential and led a team focused on underwriting and structuring those transactions. In 2009, he joined Pension Consulting Group (now part of Meketa Investment Group), as a Managing Director, consulting on a non-discretionary basis for the real estate accounts of major institutional investment plans. Mr. Lorda’s prior roles included development, sourcing and underwriting of real estate assets focused on residential properties at both Del Mar Development and Time Equities. Before starting his real estate career in 2006, Mr. Lorda spent six years in international agricultural trading with Bunge and ED&F Man. He earned a BA from Hamilton College and a MS in Real Estate Finance from New York University.
Panelist
Toccarra Nicole Thomas
Assistant Vice President of Housing and Development | Executive Director Center for Zoning Solutions, Smart Growth America
Toccarra Nicole Thomas, AICP, CQIA, MBA, MAURP is the Director of Land Use and Development for Smart Growth America (SGA), a national nonprofit that envisions a country where no matter where you live, or who you are, you can enjoy living in a place that is healthy, prosperous, and resilient. At SGA Toccarra Nicole advocates for zoning reform and housing attainability by leading thought leadership, technical assistance, and political advocacy projects as well as serving as the Executive Director of the Form-Based Codes Institute where she advocates for the adoption of Form-Based Codes as the preferred regulatory tool to create healthy people-centered communities.
Before joining SGA Toccarra Nicole served as the Director of Development Services at the City of Redding where she spearheaded process initiatives to simulate housing development, policies and approaches that met the needs of a diverse and dynamic citizenry such as the development of a pre-approved ADU process, was well as incorporating smart growth approaches, policies, and programs, the comprehensive General Plan update. Prior to that, Toccarra Nicole worked as the Deputy Director of Community Development for the County of Lake where she adopted the 6th Cycle Housing Element which reestablished the County’s eligibility for federal funding and programs, streamlined the permit processes to eliminate a significant permit backlog, developed strategies for workforce housing to address the housing crisis in the County, all while mentoring and instructing staff on the basics of land use decisions and planning.
Toccarra Nicole became a planner because she noticed at an early age that planning was inherently inequitable although she did not necessarily have the vocabulary of equitable planning and she has always been passionate about housing for all. A lifelong learner, Toccarra Nicole earned a Master of Arts in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Florida, Dual Minoring in Historic Preservation and Affordable Housing (she was even a HUD Scholar), a Master of Business Administration in Supply Chain Management from the University of Tennessee (think of Urban Planning as the Macro view of communities, and Supply Chain Management which is the movement of goods through a community as the micro view). When she is not at work Toccarra Nicole enjoys volunteering, serving on boards, practicing yoga, and writing on her blog.
Panelist
Anna Lan
TOD Manager, CapMetro
Anna Lan is living her best transit life as the Transit-Oriented Development manager for Capital Metro (CapMetro) in Austin, Texas. She is responsible for leading the Equitable Transit-Oriented Development program, which prepares communities through policy and public investment ahead of the multibillion-dollar Project Connect infrastructure project. With over 15 years of experience in transportation and master planning, Anna's next goal is to create the next case-study-worthy TOD that focuses on community benefits for all income levels.
Anna began her career in the private sector as a consultant in transportation and environmental planning in New York City. She also spent five years on the integrated planning and architecture team with Arup in China, working on large infrastructure projects for clients like the Hong Kong MTR. Her key projects include TOD planning for 65 miles of new commuter rail with 52 stations in the Pearl River Delta and master planning a 50-square-mile panda nature reserve in partnership with The Nature Conservancy. After returning home to her native Texas, Anna transitioned to the public sector to focus on implementation at the Central Texas regional level.
Anna holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern California and a master’s in urban planning from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation.
Panelist
Jay Bullock
VP, Planning and Entitlement, Rancho Mission Viejo
Jay Bullock is Vice President of Planning & Entitlement for Rancho Mission Viejo, a master planned community developer. Jay has been with RMV since 1997, coordinating entitlement approvals, first for Ladera Ranch, and currently for Rancho Mission Viejo, a 14,000-dwelling unit, 23,000-acre planned community in south Orange County, California. Increasingly Jay has become RMV’s subject matter expert on fire resilience as it relates to master planned communities located on the wildland urban interface, and related fire insurance challenges. Previously Jay was a planner at the County of Orange (where he and his wife met), and he has served as entitlement consultant to the Irvine Company and Lennar Homes. Jay is originally from Nebraska but came to California to attend Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, graduating with City & Regional Planning degree. Jay and his family are long-time residents of Seal Beach, California.
Moderator
Ashley Besic
Associate Manager of Thermal Energy Networks, Building Decarbonization Coalition
Ashley is a seasoned professional currently serving as the Senior Associate of Market Transformation at the Building Decarbonization Coalition (BDC), a distinguished nonprofit committed to driving impactful change. In her role, she spearheads initiatives that collaborate with policymakers, the building industry, and consumers to pioneer zero-emission lifestyle solutions, effectively eliminating reliance on fossil fuels and contributing significantly to the reduction of climate pollution.
Collaborating seamlessly with the team, Ashley plays a pivotal role in convening state policymakers, manufacturers, industry associations, and other stakeholders. This collective effort aims to negotiate and execute a comprehensive strategy for the phased transition away from gas appliances.
Ashley's influence extends to implementing BDC's thermal network coalition organizing activities across the U.S. This involves facilitating meetings, crafting compelling presentations, and fostering relationships with key players in the field, including natural gas utility companies. Her expertise lies in thermal networks, which are innovative, neighborhood-scale heat pump and waste heat recovery systems strategically situated within existing gas utilities' right-of-way.
Furthermore, Ashley supports the in securing commitments from manufacturers, policymakers, environmental justice groups, and labor groups across multiple states. Her dedication is evident in coordinating the Market Transformation working group, where she manages scheduling, prepares comprehensive agendas, takes and disseminates notes, provides regular email updates, identifies necessary tools and resources, and meticulously tracks responsibilities.
Acknowledged for her ability to solicit and incorporate feedback from diverse stakeholders, including manufacturers, policymakers, builders, developers, equity groups, and labor groups, Ashley serves as the esteemed relationship manager for one or more of these critical stakeholder groups. Additionally, she represents BDC's interests in national dialogues, engaging with key stakeholder groups and working collaboratively with partners to bring their perspectives to the forefront.
Prior to her impactful tenure at BDC, Ashley led the implementation of the ULI Net Zero Imperative, a groundbreaking multi-year initiative aimed at accelerating decarbonization in the built environment. Her journey began as a Sustainability Project Manager at LivCor, a Blackstone Portfolio Company. In this role, Ashley played a pivotal role in establishing the foundation for the multifamily firm's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) department, driving sustainability programming forward with passion and precision.
Ashley holds a Master of Science in Real Estate from the Marshall Bennett Institute of Real Estate at Roosevelt University, and a B.A. in Multidisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas at San Antonio. She is a LEED Green Associate, Fitwel Ambassador, and a Green Globes Emerging Professional.
Panelist
Kevin Burns
CEO/Founder/Broker, Urbanspace Real Estate + Interiors
Kevin Burns is the CEO of Urbanspace Real Estate + Interiors. His legacy began in 2000 at the age of 22 when he founded Urbanspace Real Estate. Today, over two decades later, Kevin’s entrepreneurial drive continues to flourish as the developer of The Modern Austin Residences setting a record sales pace with its launch in 2022. The Modern condo tower is under construction in the Rainey Street District with delivery slated for 2025.
Kevin’s zest for Austin and the urban lifestyle fuels his vision that has evolved Urbanspace over the past two decades into a turn-key living solution, providing residential and commercial real estate services, condo project development and marketing, interior design services, a furniture showroom with over 100 lines, white glove moving services, and hospitality concepts. His firm has served as the exclusive sales and marketing brokerage on highly successful projects including The Modern, 44 East Ave, The Independent, Seaholm Residences and numerous other projects in the Austin area.
Kevin is an urban community advocate and an active contributor to the Shoal Creek Conservancy, Austin Parks Foundation and Waterloo Greenway, while also giving back by mentoring young talent through RECA and ULI. In 2023, Kevin was named to Austin Business Journal’s inaugural Power Players list, recognizing individuals who have made significant impacts in Austin and their industries. Kevin remains actively involved in real estate, topping $1 billion in sales throughout his career and earning Austin Business Journal’s Top Realtor award in 2020. He is a multi-year member of Elite 25, Austin’s top luxury agent group. Kevin is also an active member of YPO, an active member/former board member of Entrepreneurs’ Organization, former board member and executive committee member of The Real Estate Council of Austin and former chair of the Urban Land Institute’s Urban development council.
True to his lifelong enterprising spirit, Kevin opened his first hospitality concept, Codependent Cocktails + Coffee, next to Urbanspace at the base of The Independent. His newest hospitality offering, Bacalar, is inspired by the Yucatan Peninsula region of Mexico and is open at the base of 44 East Ave in the Rainey Street District.
Additionally, Kevin developed a boutique hotel on the water in the form of a catamaran, called Seahome, as well as a luxury ski house vacation rental in Park City featuring six bedrooms and five full bathrooms, complete with high-end modern furnishings.
Kevin lives downtown with his two daughters and enjoys traveling, sailing, skiing and the many perks that the urban lifestyle offers.
Panelist
Carmen Romero
Chief Executive Officer, True Ground Housing Partners, Inc.
Carmen Romero became President and CEO at APAH in July 2021.
Prior to becoming CEO, Ms. Romero led the Real Estate Development team in creating and preserving more than 1,800 new affordable housing units in Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Montgomery counties.
Today, APAH’s portfolio consists of 22 affordable apartment communities in four jurisdictions across the region, totaling 2,800 units, with more than than 4,500 individuals and families who call an APAH apartment home. APAH has delivered several innovative, award-winning affordable housing properties, including Terwilliger Place, Queens Court, Gilliam Place, Columbia Hills, and The Springs.
In her first year as CEO, Ms. Romero supervised two projects that delivered in 2022: Lucille & Bruce Terwilliger Place, a 160-unit affordable property born out of an innovative partnership with American Legion Post 139, and a joint venture with E&G Group to develop APAH’s first property in Loudoun County, Loudoun View Senior Residences, which consists of 98 units of affordable senior housing.
Real estate milestones in 2023 included closing on three large-scale projects: 500+ units at The Exchange at Springhill Station in Tysons Corner, Riggs Crossing Senior Residences in Washington, D.C. and Marbella in Arlington. APAH was also awarded the RFP for Crystal House in Arlington, which will consist of at least 655 affordable units.
Most recently, Ms. Romero oversaw the creation of APAH’s new strategic plan, which will guide the organization from 2023 to 2027, and is responsible for its implementation. She has increased the size of APAH’s Resident Services and Accounting teams to align with APAH’s real estate portfolio growth.
Prior to joining APAH in 2011, Ms. Romero was a Director of Real Estate Development and public-private partnerships at Clark Construction. She began her career at Marriott International.
Moderator
Beth Silverman
Executive Director, The Lotus Campaign Inc.
Beth Silverman is a senior practitioner and thought leader at the intersections of social impact, urban planning, real estate development and public policy. Beth’s career includes leadership roles in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors focused on building livable, equitable and resilient communities. Since 2018, Beth has served as the founding Executive Director of the Lotus Campaign, an innovative nonprofit real estate development start-up that tackles homelessness by engaging in private sector partnerships and leveraging capital as a tool for good. Under Beth’s leadership, Lotus Campaign developed 32 partnerships with nonprofits, landlords and funders to facilitate housing for over 430 individuals at an annual cost of less than $1,000 per person per year and was honored in Fast Company’s 2021 and 2023 World Changing Ideas competition. Beth also participated in the 2020 class of SEED20 nonprofit entrepreneurs.
Prior to leading the Lotus Campaign, Beth tackled complex land use and real estate development challenges in communities across the U.S. and internationally. From 2014 to 2018, Beth served as Vice President of Advisory Services at the Urban Land Institute, designing technical assistance programs that addressed a range of challenges from equitable urban redevelopment to planning for resilience. She co-created the Equitable Economic Development Fellowship program with the National League of Cities and Policy Link to help equity, transparency, sustainability and community engagement become driving forces in local economic development efforts and to strengthen public sector leadership.
From 2005 to 2013, Beth oversaw and managed large-scale real estate, policy, and economic development initiatives throughout the New York City region. While at the NYC Economic Development Corporation, Beth managed a $110 million portfolio of 10 projects that created over 300 units of affordable housing, five new cultural assets, and 16,000 square feet of high-quality public space. Beth also led the launch of a city-sponsored incubator supporting emerging entrepreneurs in culinary, food manufacturing, and related industries in Brooklyn.
Beth holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland and a graduate degree in City Planning from the University of Pennsylvania. She is an active member of the Urban Land Institute and serves on the boards of the Petersburgh Community Development Corporation and Asheville Downtown Association. When not working, Beth can usually be found outside; running, biking, surfing, and hiking, and generally encouraging friends and family to enjoy the great outdoors with as much unabashed enthusiasm as she does.
Her personal motto is: “Find out who you are and do it on purpose", which she proudly lifted from Dolly Parton.
Panelist
Jeremy Striffler
Director of Real Estate, Austin Independent School District
Jeremy Striffler is the Director of Real Estate for the Austin Independent School District, which serves over 73,000 students in Austin, Texas. In his role, he oversees the district’s portfolio of 135 facilities and over 2,200 acres of land. Prior to joining the district, he worked for Cushman & Wakefield in their Occupier Services group where he provided lease, buy, and sell services for corporations, nonprofits, and education organizations, supporting site selection, client relations, and project management. Past clients include Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Fairview Health Services, Land O’Lakes, U.S. Bank, TCF Bank, Volunteers of America, and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Further, Jeremy worked with public school districts and charter schools in the Twin Cities to align their real estate strategy and decisions with their mission and vision. He began his career in commercial real estate in 2006 at Vornado Realty Trust in New York City supporting their retail division.
Jeremy has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Colgate University in 2004 and a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in International Business from the Rome campus of St. John’s University in 2010. Outside of work, he focuses his community involvement on addressing food insecurity and literacy. In Austin, he volunteers for the Central Texas Food Bank and sits on the board of BookSpring.
Moderator
Heidi Cisneros
Managing Partner, Structures
Heidi Cisneros, the Managing Partner at Structures, a local structural engineering firm, brings over 25 years of experience to her role. Starting with Structures at its founding, Heidi initially directed business management, accounting, and human resources. With a solid foundation in accounting and business management, she founded a second local firm specializing in civil engineering, later selling it to focus exclusively on Structures.
Heidi's career journey includes managing retail for a large national chain, where she achieved the distinction of becoming the youngest manager in the organization's history. During this time, she successfully oversaw a retail store grossing $1 million per week. Her educational pursuits led her to formal training at the University of North Texas, balancing classes while working full time.
In her current capacity as Managing Partner, Heidi takes charge of all aspects of the firm's financial and business administration as well as project management. Her strategic foresight has played a pivotal role in shaping long-term business strategies, and her decision-making expertise has launched new opportunities and business ventures for growth and advancement.
Beyond her professional achievements, Heidi has actively contributed to the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Austin District Council. After completing her term as Programs Chair, Chair of Mission Advancement, she accepted the role of District Council Chair. Heidi remains dedicated to the organization by serving on the Management Committee and Advisory Board. Additionally, she participated in the P3 Local Member Council and the Technical Assistance Panels Committee.
Heidi's commitment extends beyond ULI, as she has served as the past treasurer of the Society for Marketing Professional Services, Austin Chapter. She also fulfills the role of President for her Homeowners Association (HOA) and is an engaged member of the Austin Chamber. Furthermore, Heidi has contributed to a Catholic ministry leadership team in Austin.
In her personal life, Heidi is a devoted wife of 22 years and a proud mother of two sons. Her multifaceted experiences and unwavering dedication underscore her role as the District Chair of ULI Austin, reflecting a career marked by leadership, strategic vision, and community engagement.
Panelist
Geeti Silwal
Principal, Perkins&Will
As the head of the West Coast Urban Design Practice, Geeti Silwal brings vision and design leadership to lay the foundation of transformative changes in cities. She strongly believes that urban designers hold the responsibility to inspire integrated, multi-purpose design solutions of innovation and beauty that create healthy and inclusive cities. Working with cities, institutions, regional transit agencies, and private developers her work includes delivering well-connected, mixed-use, vibrant communities around transit corridors and stations; and also focuses on visioning and planning successful innovation ecosystems. The primary focus being the interrelatedness of economic, cultural, and physical dimensions that combine to deliver a complete community and instills an authentic and lasting sense of place. She has led planning efforts for communities of innovation for the University of Utah Research Park Strategic Vision Plan, University of California Santa Cruz -MBEST Innovation District, San Carlos East Innovation District, Los Angeles Biomed/Tech Focus Area Study, and San Diego State University Innovation District visioning session. Geeti holds a Master of Urban Design degree from University of California, Berkeley. She is a Board member of Perkins&Will’s AREA Research 501c3, member of ULI San Francisco's DEI Committee, member of ULI Public Development and Infrastructure Product Council, and was a jury member of the ULI Hines International Design Competition in 2021 and 2022 and the Jury Chair in 2023.
Panelist
AJ Jackson
President - LEO Impact Capital, JBG SMITH Properties
Brian Allan Jackson (AJ) is the President of LEO Impact Capital, an investment management platform dedicated to the creation and preservation of affordable workforce housing using an impact framework designed to drive financial returns and positive outcomes for residents. LEO is a subsidiary of JBG SMITH (NYSE: JBGS).
Previously he was a partner with EYA, LLC, a Washington, DC area urban infill development company, where he led more than one billion dollars of double and triple bottom line social impact investments. Earlier in his career, AJ served as Chief of Staff to the Administrator of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA).
AJ is a Trustee of the Urban Land Institute, where he serves on the Advisory Board of ULI’s Randall Lewis Center for Sustainability in Real Estate and chaired the ULI working group that created the 10 Principles for Embedding Racial Equity in Real Estate Development. He also serves on the Workforce Housing Committee of NMHC, the Affordable Housing Advisory Council for Fannie Mae, and the Board of Up For Growth, a national, cross-sector member network committed to solving the housing shortage and affordability crisis through data-driven research and evidence-based policy.
Moderator
Natalie Ambrosio Preudhomme
Associate Director, Moody's Analytics
Natalie Ambrosio Preudhomme is an Associate Director at Moody’s Analytics on the Commercial Real Estate thought leadership team, where she does research and market engagement focused on climate change. Natalie joined Moody’s through the acquisition of Four Twenty Seven, a leading provider of data on physical climate risk. At Four Twenty Seven she led editorial strategy and communications. Previously, Natalie helped develop an assessment of U.S. cities’ vulnerabilities to climate change and their readiness to adapt, at the Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative (ND-GAIN). She currently serves on the Urban Land Institute’s Pacific Northwest ESG Council and the University of Notre Dame's Accountancy Department Advisory Board. Natalie holds a B.S. in Environmental Science and a Certificate in Journalism, Ethics, and Democracy from the University of Notre Dame and a Certificate in Climate and Investing from the CFA UK.
Panelist
Leroy Moore
Senior Vice President/COO, Tampa Housing Authority
Leroy Moore is a seasoned real estate development professional who has spearheaded some of the more complex and celebrated mixed-income/mixed-use sustainable residential master planned developments across the U.S. He has directly spearheaded the development of over 7,300 units of housing across the U.S. His most recent successes include the redevelopment of severely distressed public housing communities in Tampa, Florida in his role with the Housing Authority of the City of Tampa. Encore Tampa is a nationally recognized best practice in master planned urban redevelopment where he led the transformation of a 28-acre downtown site into a 12-city block 1800+ unit sustainable mixed-income/mixed-use jewel that is touted today as Tampa’s coolest, most economically and ethnically diverse neighborhood. West River is a 17-phase master planned community transforming West Tampa into a walkable community of choice for thousands of families and local businesses. Along with his real estate development responsibilities he oversees all aspects of the Authority's long range capital planning, assisted housing programs, asset management, facilities maintenance, contracting, public safety, client programs and services, public relations and communications, as well as strategic business planning and corporate vision management.
Prior to joining the Housing Authority of the City of Tampa in 1998, he operated his own consulting firm providing national training and professional organizational management and analysis to Public and Indian Housing Authorities throughout the United States. He has held Director level positions in a number of housing authorities including Memphis, Peoria, Oakland, and Atlanta; and from 1994-1996 was contracted through the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development to serve the Court-appointed Receiver for the District of Columbia Housing Authority in Washington DC which at the time was the Nation’s most troubled housing authority. He is a ULI Daniel Rose Fellow, current Chair of ULI Tampa-Bay and serves on numerous local and National Boards including Florida Housing Coalition, Tampa’s Downtown Partnership, Habitat for Humanity Hillsborough, HuddleTouch Ministries, among others. He is recognized as an expert in redevelopment of distressed assets and creating healthy sustainable communities, affordable housing strategies, and is regularly called on to speak at local and national conferences and industry meetings.
Leroy is an avid photographer and gardener. He and his wife, Remi, reside north of Tampa, Florida; are both active in their Church and local ministries, and love to travel, having a special desire to travel more throughout the continent of Africa.
Panelist
Beth Elliott
Principal, Norris Design
Beth Elliott is a Principal with Stantec and currently leads its North American Urban Places practice. Her role includes coordinating collaboration and growth of key Urban Places initiatives including Transit-Oriented Communities, Suburban Retrofit, and Climate Solutions. Prior to her current position, she spent 14 years as a planner for the City of Minneapolis, including 12 years as the Principal Planner for Downtown Minneapolis. She has managed complex short- and long-term projects related to comprehensive planning, community revitalization, zoning and other regulatory frameworks, transit-oriented development, downtown in-fill redevelopment, and creative engagement methods. Beth has a Masters in Urban and Regional Planning from the Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota and is certified through the American Institute of Certified Planners.
Moderator
Michael Wilt
External Relations, Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation
Michael Wilt is the Senior Manager of External Relations for the Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation. He directs government and peer organization relations while supporting communications efforts. His more than decade of housing and land use policy expertise include representing a prominent industry organization, working in both chambers of the Texas Capitol and for former Mayor Gavin Newsom. He serves on the Board of multiple community-based nonprofits, holds a J.D. from the University of San Francisco School of Law, a B.A. in Government and Latin from the University of Texas at Austin, is an avid runner and proud father to his daughter Nova.
Keynote Speaker
Dana Schoewe
Principal, RCLCO
Dana is the Principal and lead of RCLCO’s Mountain West Real Estate Economics (REE) practice based out of Denver, Colorado. Dana specializes in creative, data-driven solutions for untraditional development challenges. This includes a diversity of product types, with a particular emphasis on mountain resort development, outdoor recreation-oriented real estate, workforce/attainable housing, and specialized projects for institutional entities.
At RCLCO, Dana strives to develop tools that lead to efficient work processes and enhanced deliverables for clients. This includes strategic financial modeling to test various development programs and transaction strategies, and building custom demand models. She also acts as an advisor to RCLCO’s Innovation, Data, and Analytics (IDA) team, where she continues to identify opportunities to better integrate data science with real estate. Within the industry, Dana is an active participant in ULI Colorado and serves on the Real Estate, Entertainment, Travel and Leisure (RETL) Council.
Prior to joining RCLCO, Dana obtained a Master’s degree in City & Regional Planning (MCRP) from UNC-Chapel Hill and a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Vanderbilt University. Originally from Steamboat, Colorado, Dana is an avid trail runner and backcountry skier with a passion for both urban environments and the great outdoors.
Panelist
Jen Weaver
President, Vivid Development Company
Jen Weaver built the first car-free new construction multifamily in Austin. Ms. Weaver is a Registered Architect, Registered Interior Designer, and Realtor in the State of Texas. She serves as a Downtown Commissioner and Co-chairs the Urban Land Institute Urban Council for Austin. Ms. Weaver also serves on the Downtown Austin Alliance Built Environment Committee and the Housing Committee. She holds a Master in Real Estate Development from the University of Southern California and Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin.
Panelist
Kimberly Driggins
CEO, Washington Housing Conservancy
Kimberly Driggins is the Executive Director of the Washington Housing Conservancy (WHC). Launched in 2018, WHC preserves affordable workforce housing, prevents displacement, and promotes economic mobility, especially for moderate to low-income African Americans and other people of color. WHC is committed to creating thriving, inclusive, mixed-income communities throughout the DC region.
Ms. Driggins has an extensive background in urban planning and real estate development and prior to her appointment at WHC, she served as Director of Strategic Planning/Arts and Culture for the City of Detroit’s Planning and Development Department for three years. Ms. Driggins also served as Associate Director for Citywide Planning for the District of Columbia’s Office of Planning from 2008-2015.
Ms. Driggins is a nationally recognized expert in urban redevelopment and placemaking and has innovative projects in both Detroit and Washington, DC. She currently serves on the boards of PennPraxis, the National Landing Business Improvement District (BID), and was Board Chairperson for Gehl Institute from 2017-2019. She has a BA degree from Hampton University, an MPP from the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy. Ms. Driggins was awarded the prestigious Loeb Fellowship from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design in 2015.
Panelist
Christopher Kennedy
CEO/Founder, Emmaus Projects
Christopher Kennedy is a community engager focusing on building the interpersonal and communication skills that forge successful working relationships with clients, consumers, boards, public-private partnerships and community leaders. He is founding partner of Emmaus Projects which helps non-profits monetize their real estate to address a community need and provide a third-revenue stream to support their ongoing mission. Prior to starting his own small business, he was the CEO of Leadership Austin and had a 22-year career at the Lower Colorado River Authority supporting the public utility needs in their 58 county Central Texas service area. He serves on the national board of the Courageous Conversation Foundation. Locally he serves on the advisory councils for Austin Together, the Austin Young Chamber, Young Women’s Alliance of Austin and the Junior League of Austin. He is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin and is an avid, some call rabid, Texas Longhorn fan. Christopher resides in downtown Austin.
Moderator
Richard Gollis
Principal, The Concord Group, LLC
Richard M. Gollis is a co-Founder and Principal of The Concord Group based in the Newport Beach office. The firm also has offices in San Francisco, New York and Atlanta. As a founding partner, Richard has crafted and cultivated the firm’s unique approach to advisory services, integrating deep market knowledge with creative analytics to provide best-in-class solutions to a diverse range of clients.
Richard’s expertise in strategic market analysis, development programming, transaction due diligence and valuation extends across all real estate asset classes. With a career in real estate spanning New England, Atlanta and Southern California, Richard offers an exceptional breadth of experience that makes him a trusted advisor to private- and public-sector clients alike.
He works frequently with cities on solving complex development challenges in partnership with world-class developers and financial institutions. Across the country, Richard has led TCG teams on projects that have positively influenced infrastructure and development patterns including: new redevelopment in the urban core; redevelopment of suburban retail to mixed use; transit-oriented nodes and corridor development plans. Respected as a thought leader in real estate, Richard is often quoted in major publications and he is frequently sought after as a speaker at key industry events.
Richard was elected a Trustee of the Urban Land Institute in 2012 and has been a Governor of the ULI Foundation since 2006. He is currently Chair of the Suburban Development and Redevelopment Product Council. Richard has served as Chair of the Community Development Council (two terms) and Juror for the Awards for Excellence and is Chair/Past Chair of the Orange County District Council. Richard serves on the Advisory Board of Jamboree Housing Corporation, a leading community development organization specializing in affordable housing.
Panelist
Michael Harper
Senior VP of Operations, ICON
As the Director of Business Development, Michael leads ICON’s go-to-market efforts by developing partnerships and projects focused on scaled delivery of 3D-printed construction.
Michael is primarily focused on development scale projects in the single-family residential sector that will
bring ICON’s innovative construction methods to the masses. Most recently, he played a critical role in the launch of ICON’s 100-home 3D-printed community, the world’s largest community of 3D-printed structures underway. Through his efforts, ICON will be able to deliver more housing options, including mainstream market residential and affordable housing, to members of our community in the years ahead.
As a member of the Urban Land Institute, Michael is active on the National Community Development
Council and Austin’s local Housing Innovation Council.
Michael has been involved in construction since childhood and has extensive professional background in
sales and operations leadership for both large companies and growing startups.
He is a proud alumni of the University of Georgia and currently resides in Austin, Texas with his wife and
young son. Outside of changing the world through 3D printed construction, he is passionate about travel,
food and music.
Panelist
Nicki Hellenkamp
Director of Housing and Homelessness Policy, City of Boise Planning & Development Services
Nicki Olivier Hellenkamp was born and raised in Boise, Idaho and has worked in the affordable housing world since her first job out of college as a volunteer coordinator for a housing and homeless services provider in Philadelphia. After graduating with her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Washington, she served as a Policy Manager for the Housing Development Consortium Seattle-King County, where she supported local governments in analyzing and advancing policies related to affordable housing development, and as a Senior Civil Rights Analyst for the Seattle Office for Civil Rights, where much of her work was focused on allegations of housing-related civil rights violations. Nicki has worked for the City of Boise as the Mayor’s Housing Advisor since July 2021.
