Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Strategic Initiatives
Associate Vice President, Content and Program Strategy
Expertise:
Sharon Wilson Géno is the president of NMHC. She is a 30-year veteran of the housing industry, during which she has helped guide numerous for-profit, nonprofit and governmental entities around housing affordability, community development and other housing policy challenges.
Sharon most recently served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Volunteers of America National Services (VOANS), the housing and healthcare affiliate of the Volunteers of America parent organization and one of the largest nonprofit affordable and mixed-income/mixed-use housing operators in the nation. VOANS operated 240 properties and nearly 13,000 units in over 40 states during her tenure.
She originally joined the organization as its Senior Vice President of Legal Affairs and provided advice and counsel to the organization on a wide variety of legal matters, including housing operations and housing development issues.
Before joining Volunteers of America, Sharon was a partner in a private practice in Washington DC, where she advised on housing and community development projects, government contracting, corporate structure, internal governance, and compliance with federal, state and local laws.
During her career, Sharon has served as both in-house counsel and outside General Counsel for various types of organizations. Her legal experience includes providing advice regarding government and non-government contracts, nonprofit organizations, corporate formation, litigation, employment law, tax law, and other topics. She has also taught courses on housing law and policy at The George Washington School of Law and Georgetown University.
She has also worked on legislation and advocacy efforts related to affordable housing programs on both the local and national levels. Sharon has a Juris Doctorate from Georgetown University Law Center, a Master of Arts in Urban Affairs from St. Louis University and a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies from Newcomb College of Tulane University.
Winnie Murray is Executive Assistant to the President and Chief Operating Officer within NMHC’s Executive Office. Her main responsibilities are managing the Executive’s daily operations, focusing on the most important issues: such as strategic planning, project work, reviewing and prioritizing travel while collaborating with the Executive team to determine and prioritize business strategies. Prior to joining NMHC, Winnie worked in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, most recently managing the Executive Office of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, implementing, and overseeing organization-wide initiatives and programs and with C-suite Executives at Johnson & Johnson Regulatory and Medical Devices. Winnie holds a B.A. in Business Administration from London Metropolitan University and a Chartered Institute of Marketing Certification from London Guildhall University.
Cindy Vosper Chetti is Senior Vice President for Government Affairs, with responsibility for managing NMHC’s federal legislative and regulatory advocacy strategy agenda. She also oversees NMHC’s political operations and the NMHC PAC. Prior to joining NMHC, Chetti had an extensive 20-year career on Capitol Hill serving in a number of leadership positions including leading the housing portfolio for the House Financial Services Committee and managing the Subcommittee on Housing and Community Opportunity team. Prior to that, she served for six years as a Senior Professional with the House Financial Services and Consumer Credit Subcommittee working on issues specific to the financial services industry including privacy, consumer credit, money laundering and housing. Chetti began her career on Capitol Hill working for former Representative Marge Roukema (R-NJ), rising from a legislative assistant to Chief of Staff. Chetti holds a B.S. from Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University.
Dinia Abduljelil provides support for the team’s array of projects, legislative tracking, political communications, and member resources. Before joining NMHC, she was a Research Assistant at the Eurasia Center. She graduated from Georgetown University, with a bachelor’s degree in Government and a minor in Economics. Dinia’s internship experience includes positions at the Department of Commerce and Cambridge Global Advisors, where she was responsible for briefings on congressional hearings and legislation, media monitoring, and research on international markets.
Expertise:
Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, Employment and Immigration, Compensation and Benefits, Labor Policy, Energy Efficiency Tax Incentives, Tax and Accounting, Carried Interest, Estate Tax and Stepped-Up Basis, FIRPTA, Business Interest Deductibility, IRS Repair Regulations, Like-Kind Exchanges, Tax Depreciation Rules, Tax Extenders, Student Housing, Capital Markets, Development Trends, Income Expense Survey, Market Conditions, Student Housing, Opportunity Zones, Expiring Tax Rates
Matthew M. Berger is Vice President of Tax and Vice President of Student Housing. In his tax role, Matthew represents the interests of the multifamily industry before Congress and federal agencies on tax issues. Matthew also co-leads NMHC’s student housing efforts to ensure the industry’s information, networking and advocacy needs are represented. Prior to coming to NMHC, Matthew worked on the staff of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship under the leadership of former Senator Olympia J. Snowe. Before his time on the Hill, Matthew was National Tax Manager for Deloitte Tax LLP in Washington, DC, where he covered the formulation of tax policy in Congress. Matthew graduated from Stanford University.
Expertise:
Housing Affordability, Rent Control, Section 8, Property Operations, Domestic Violence Victims VAWA, Military Residents and Housing Protections
Lisa E. Blackwell is Vice President, Housing Policy and has primary responsibility for federal level housing issues for the NMHC/National Apartment Association Joint Legislative Program. Lisa has more than 25 years of government affairs and real estate experience. Before joining the Council, Lisa was the Managing Director of Government Affairs for the American Institute of Architects, where she developed legislative strategies on behalf of the nation's architects. Prior to that, she spent nine years with the National Association of Realtors working on a variety of housing issues. She also lobbied on behalf of Cornell University and worked for two members of Congress from New York State. Lisa holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the State University of New York College at Fredonia.
Expertise:
Green Building Labeling and Disclosure, Finance and Capital Markets, Capital Markets and Liquidity, FHA Multifamily, GSEs and Housing Finance Reform, SEC Registration Requirements, Radon, Student Housing, Capital Markets, Development Trends, Income Expense Survey, Market Conditions, Student Housing
Dave Borsos is Vice President, Capital Markets and has primary responsibility for managing and guiding NMHC’s multifamily finance policy as it relates to federal legislative and regulatory issues impacting housing finance reform, the Federal Housing Administration and the regulation of financial markets. Dave has over 30 years of experience in real estate capital markets, banking and the sustainable energy markets. Before joining the Council, Dave ran DJB Enterprises whose primary focus was advisory services focused on the financial and energy markets for new business opportunities from inception through execution. He also spent 16 years at Freddie Mac in a variety of leadership roles within their Capital Markets groups focused both on the single and multifamily markets. Dave holds a BS in Chemical Engineering and an MBA in Finance from the University of Maryland.
Vice President, Construction, Development, Land Use and Counsel
Expertise:
Development and Design, Accessibility Rules and Design and Construction, Building Codes and Standards, International Building Code, International Energy Conservation Code IECC, International Fire Code, International Green Building Code, International Property Maintenance Code, National Green Building Standard, NFPA, ASHRAE, Fair Housing and ADA Compliance, Infrastructure and Land Use, Inclusionary Zoning, Smart Growth, Top Markets, Employment and Immigration, Criminal Background Checks, Energy and Sustainability, Appliance Efficiency Standards, Energy Policy, Green Building Codes and Standards, Indoor Environmental Issues, Lead Based Paint, Property Operations, Privatized Military Housing, Fair Housing, Disparate Impact Liability
Paula M. Cino is Vice President for Construction, Development, Land Use and Counsel, with primary responsibility for federal policy issues related to building design and construction including building codes, fair housing, sustainability, infrastructure and regulatory compliance. Before joining NMHC, Paula served as a national security investigator and earned a Juris Doctorate from Tulane School of Law. Paula also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology and Law and Society from American University and is a member of the Maryland State Bar.
Expertise:
Energy Policy, Insurance, Legal and Risk Mitigation, Emergency Preparedness, National Flood Insurance Program, Hurricane Resource Center
Alex Eveland is Vice President of Government Affairs for NMHC. Prior to joining NMHC, Alex spent a decade working on Capitol Hill in numerous legislative and political roles. Alex most recently served as Chief of Staff to Congressman Ron Kind, a senior member of the Ways & Means Committee. He holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
Expertise:
Housing Affordability, Apartment Supply Shortage, Finance and Capital Markets, Capital Markets and Liquidity, FHA Multifamily, GSEs and Housing Finance Reform
Bernard Fulton is Vice President for Housing Policy and Regulation. Bernard comes to NMHC from the Housing Policy Council where he was Vice President for Government Relations. Bernard has nearly thirty years of experience in and around Congress as a policy advisor, legislative analyst, lobbyist, strategist and political organizer. His positions have included serving as legislative director for Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, legislative representative for the City of New York under Michael Bloomberg, head of Congressional relations for HUD Secretaries Shaun Donovan and Julián Castro, and legislative consultant for organizations in the private, government and non-profit sectors.
Ian Georgiev is a Legislative and Regulatory Analyst specializing in housing policy. Previously, he served as a Legislative Intern for Rep. Warren Davidson, focusing on financial services policy, and interned at Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck and Invariant, where he built relationships with Fortune 500 companies and foreign governments. Ian led a team of analysts as the Labor Policy Lead at Stateside Associates and consulted on a Department of Defense geopolitical project with Baron Public Affairs. He holds a B.A. in Law with honors from the University at Buffalo School of Law and a specialization in Financial Crisis Management from Yale University. Ian is fluent in English, Bulgarian, Turkish, and Macedonian.
Morgan White is a Manager for Government Affairs and Advocacy Engagement at NMHC. Prior to joining NMHC, Morgan spent over a decade working in government at the local, state and federal level in numerous legislative and political roles. Morgan most recently served as a Senior Political Representative for SEIU and prior to that worked across California as a lobbyist and consultant in healthcare. She holds a B.A. in Political Science from Hampton University.
Expertise:
Energy and Sustainability, Appliance Efficiency Standards, Energy Efficiency Tax Incentives, Energy Policy, Green Building Codes and Standards, Green Building Labeling and Disclosure, Operating Sustainable Properties, Rating and Benchmarking Systems, Indoor Environmental Issues, Lead Based Paint, Fair Housing, Disparate Impact Liability
Sarah Rahman is Legislative Analyst with a primary focus on issues related to energy, environmental and fair housing policy and engages in research, advocacy, and special projects on legislative, regulatory, and legal matters. Before becoming a member of the NMHC staff, Sarah clerked at the Prince George’s County District Court, working with over 16 judges and under the Administrative Judge Lisa Hall-Johnson. She was also a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Judge Vivian Medinilla of the Delaware Superior Court during her law school career and has a background in constitutional law. Sarah received her BA in Political Science from Salisbury University and J.D. from Drexel University’s Thomas R. Kline School of Law.
Expertise:
Lisa Costello is Vice President of Political Affairs, with primary responsibility for directing and overseeing the operations of the NMHC Political Action Committee. Lisa utilizes her extensive experience in Washington to strengthen the political and advocacy efforts of NMHC’s government affairs department. Moving to DC from New Hampshire, she began her career on Capitol Hill working for her hometown Member of Congress. She later transitioned into the private sector, as a government affairs executive with several influential associations including The Independent Insurance Agents of America and US Telecom Association. Prior to joining NMHC, Lisa spent 13 years with the American Hotel & Lodging Association, where she advocated on an array of federal issues, oversaw PAC operations for the industry-leading HotelPAC and advised member companies on legislative and regulatory compliance issues.
Expertise:
Morgan Tickle currently works as the NMHC PAC Manager, working to manage the operations of NMHC PAC. Prior to joining NMHC he worked on the political programs team at the American Bankers Association. He began his career as a campaign fundraiser for numerous democratic members of Congress. Morgan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Gettysburg College and a Master of Business Administration from The George Washington University.
Expertise:
Jim Lapides is Senior Vice President of External Affairs, where he leads award-winning, multidisciplinary initiatives that support thriving rental communities across the country. Before joining NMHC, he held positions at the American Society of Landscape Architects and the National Association of Home Builders, and worked with Department of Defense, the Department of Transportation and AARP while at FleishmanHillard. He holds a B.A. from Denison University and a M.A. from Johns Hopkins University.
Patricia Baumer is Director, Housing Solutions Coalition at NMHC.
Bio coming soon.
Expertise:
Colin Dunn is Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications, with primary responsibility for the Council’s advocacy communications, stakeholder outreach, media relations and member communications. Before joining NMHC, he held positions of increasing responsibility at Porter Novelli, JDA Frontline and Deloitte, developing and executing communications strategy across a variety of industries and issue areas such as biopharmaceuticals, financial services, international trade and agrichemicals. His public affairs, advocacy and media relations work has earned awards from the Holmes Report and the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). He holds a B.A. in Political Science and International Relations from American University.
Joslyn Hatfield-Eng is VP, Digital Engagement with primary responsibility for the Council’s advocacy communications. Before joining NMHC, she held various media-related positions – including a role as a Web Producer for U.S. News & World Report. Joslyn holds a B.A. in Political Science and Journalism from Adrian College – a private, liberal arts college located in Southeast Michigan.
Conor Ellis is the Associate Director, Branding and Marketing at NMHC, where he leads the organization's marketing and brand strategy. He plays a key role in shaping NMHC’s messaging, digital marketing initiatives, and overall visual identity across all platforms.
Before joining NMHC, Conor gained experience in digital marketing, graphic design, and community outreach through internships at the Grand Rapids Pride Center and Social Driver Digital Agency. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a minor in Art History from Aquinas College.
Lily Elder serves as the Communications Associate with responsibility supporting NMHC’s public affairs and communications work on various initiatives that shape federal policy, influence the national debate on housing and elevate rental housing providers. Through the management of NMHC’s various editorial activities, she works with the communications team to create and distribute newsletters, emails and social media content.
Prior to joining NMHC, Lily worked in client relations and marketing in Charlottesville, VA before moving to DC to receive her MS in Management from Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business. She also holds a BA in English from the University of Virginia.
Sam Oliver serves as the Marketing Associate at NMHC, focusing on marketing engagement initiatives. He supports the development of NMHC event marketing strategy, including outlining channels, audiences, and content. Additionally, he will develop and execute marketing automation initiatives, utilizing enhanced audience targeting across all NMHC marketing efforts.
Prior to joining NMHC, Sam interned with the Mortgage Bankers Association supporting marketing. He recently graduated from the Harbert College of Business at Auburn University where he received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Additionally, while at Auburn he was a varsity swimmer for two years.
Latoya Lovick, CDP®, is Vice President of Membership, primarily responsible for membership engagement, retention, and creating and directing a comprehensive membership plan for the Council. Latoya brings over ten years of experience overseeing corporate governance policies and practices and supporting productive board and membership engagement at a national and local level for non-profit organizations. In addition, Latoya brings experience managing an executive office and leading key initiatives, including strategy implementation and efforts around diversity, equity and inclusion. Latoya holds a Bachelor of Arts from The State University of New York College at New Paltz.
Deanita Davis, CMP, is Vice President of Meetings, with primary responsibility for administering, coordinating, and managing all aspects of NMHC's meetings. Deanita has over 20 years of experience planning and managing a variety of events and conferences. Prior to joining NMHC, she was the Conference & Meetings Director at Sister Cities International. Deanita holds a Bachelor of Arts from The American University and Master of Tourism Administration from The George Washington University.
Melissa Rowan, CMP, is Associate Vice President, Sponsorships and Exhibits and is responsible for developing and managing NMHC’s sponsorship and exhibits programs. Melissa has over 10 years of experience in planning, managing, and implementing a variety of conferences, trade shows, and sponsorship opportunities. Melissa has a B.A. in Communications from Marymount University.
Joshua Lamangan, PMP, is the Director, Membership Engagement, responsible for enhancing member engagement, retention, and overall member satisfaction at NMHC. Josh brings 16 years of association experience in membership and marketing. Prior to NMHC, he held positions at the New York City Bar Association and the Risk and Insurance Management Society. He holds a B.A. from Marymount University.
Sarita de la Torre is Associate Director of Meetings, with primary responsibility for coordinating and implementing all aspects of NMHC meetings. Sarita has over two years of experience in planning logistics for a variety of events and conference. Sarita holds a B.B.A. in Business Management from Loyola University Maryland.
La Fayette Flowers is Membership Manager, with responsibility for coordinating and administering membership services including meetings, and database maintenance. Prior to joining NMHC, La Fayette was employed by Pitney Bowes Management Services as a site representative. La Fayette has also worked as an intern at the United States Department of Energy where he received a superior achievement award for developing a classification system for the Defense Nuclear Facility Safety Board.
Nathalie Rollins is Manager, Membership and Database, with primary responsibility for managing and providing quality membership customer service as well as database management & reporting. Previously, Nathalie has worked with several membership organizations in both the higher education and medical device industries. Nathalie has over 17 years of experience as a database manager and administrator. Nathalie holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Maryland, College Park.
Jacquelyn Quash, is Exhibits Manager, responsible for NMHC’s exhibitor programs with a focus on operations and management. Jacquelyn has over 35 years of experience in association management, planning a variety of conventions, conferences, trade shows, marketing activities, and sponsorship opportunities. Jacquelyn has an A.A.S. in Hospitality Management from NOVA.
Zebbie Grant-Warren is Manager, Membership, with responsibility for providing quality membership customer service and general membership support. Prior to joining NMHC, Zebbie was Membership Coordinator at the Endocrine Society. She has over 17 years of membership experience and has received an award from the 89th Flight Operations (Air Force One) for outstanding customer service. Zebbie also serves on the Board for the nonprofit organizations, Women of Action Maryland and Charles County Department of Social Services Advisory.
Thomasine Lucas is membership manager, responsible for providing quality member/customer service experience and overall membership support. Prior to joining NMHC Thomasine worked at The Association of the US Army (AUSA) as the Membership Support Manager and was responsible for overall membership, customer service and database management. Thomasine has over 15 years managerial and membership experience working with educational & military associations with certifications in problem solving and communication skills.
Terra Thomas is Meetings Coordinator and is responsible for coordinating the logistics of NMHC's meetings. Terra has over 15 years of progressive experience in meeting planning and logistics, designing event specifications to meet or exceed organizational needs and objectives.
Terra holds the Convention Exposition Management Certificate from Northern Virginia Community College, Annadale, Virginia.
Tyler Carter is Meetings Coordinator and is responsible for coordinating the logistics of NMHC's meetings. Tyler has over five years of experience in planning logistics for a variety of events and conference. Prior to joining NMHC, Tyler managed events for the Antonin Scalia Law School, George Mason University. Tyler holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Towson University in Towson, Maryland.
Kenny Emson is Chief Operating Officer, with principal responsibility for NMHC’s internal operations and finance functions including accounting, NMHC meetings, membership, human resources, information systems, and office management. Prior to joining NMHC, Kenny served as Chief Development Officer, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for The Community Foundation for the National Capital Region, a philanthropic nonprofit that pools $350 million in charitable donations to make grants that benefit both Washington-area and national charities. During his time there, Kenny helped the foundation grow from $50 million in assets to $350 million and saw the staff grow from 10 to 26. Kenny is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from The George Washington University.
Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Strategic Initiatives
Expertise:
Betsy Feigin Befus is Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Strategic Initiatives, with principal responsibility for developing legal strategies and providing guidance to advance organizational goals across NMHC’s functional areas. She also has primary responsibility for the Council’s legal advocacy and amicus brief program. Betsy leads NMHC’s Diversity & Inclusion Initiative, a comprehensive effort to advance diversity and inclusion for the multifamily housing industry. Prior to joining NMHC in 2001, Betsy served as Attorney Advisor with the U.S. Department of Labor, where she drafted legal decisions issued by the Department. Betsy is a member of the District of Columbia and Colorado Bars.
Associate Vice President, Content and Program Strategy
Expertise:
Alison Johnson is the Associate Vice President of Content and Program Strategy at NMHC, where she develops executive-level programs that drive innovation and address critical challenges in the commercial real estate and housing industries. With a background in finance and nonprofit management, Alison focuses on initiatives that foster leadership, collaboration, and measurable impact.
She also serves on the Boards of HumanitiesDC and CREW DC, supporting efforts to advance women in commercial real estate and promote inclusive community development.
Alison holds a Master of Urban Planning from NYU's Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, a B.A. in Political and Economic Philosophy from Wheeling Jesuit University, and professional certifications from Cornell University and Berkeley Law.
Expertise:
Deborah D. Lee, SHRM-CP, is Vice President, Administration, with responsibility for NMHC’s internal operations, information systems, office management, and human resources. Deborah has over 18 years of management experience in operations and office management. For seven years previous to her present position at NMHC she served as Executive Assistant to the President and as Senior Director of Human Resources with primary responsibility for the support of the office of the President and support of the Senior Vice President of Finance and Operations. Prior to joining NMHC, Deborah was employed with CTA Incorporated, where she served as a Senior Administrative Assistant to the Program Manager on-site at the headquarters of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Washington, DC. Deborah also worked as an Assistant Director of an early education franchise, with responsibility for feasibility studies for the acquisition of real estate to be used primarily for the establishment of early childhood education centers. Deborah attended University of Maryland University College, Adelphi, Maryland; State University of New York at New Paltz; and Montgomery College, Rockville, Maryland.
Nawshin Sultana, PMP, is Vice President of Technology, with primary responsibility of providing strategic leadership and direction for all technology-related initiatives within the organization, including, business software systems, IT management, digital, and infrastructure. Nawshin brings 18 years of technology background, with focus on requirements analysis, project management, process improvement, product management, change management, and system implementation. She has previously worked for several non-profit and for-profit organizations, including AARP, VOA, Deloitte, Fannie Mae and Bank of America. Nawshin holds a Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Psychology and Master of Arts on Training and Development from University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
Dave Knerler is Senior Director of Technology, with responsibility for maintaining NMHC computer systems and network, including providing all end user support, managing all server systems, and the telephone/voicemail system. Dave served as IT Manager for Finet, one of the first mortgage brokerages in the country to use laptop computer technology for originating residential real estate loans by loan agents in the field. Dave managed IT for Rent Net through their expansion into Move.com, continuing on after a buyout by Homestore. Prior to relocating from California in 2008, he managed Information Technology for Yerba Beuna Center for the Arts in San Francisco and most recently served at the Studio Theatre in Washington DC where he was Director of Information Technology. Dave has over 20 years of IT experience, working the past eight years exclusively for non-profit organizations.
Jessica Cheng is the Director of Business Systems for NMHC. Prior to joining NMHC, Jessica managed the day-to-day website operations of the American College of Cardiology, a non-profit medical association with more than 52,000 members dedicated to transforming cardiovascular care and to improve heart health. She has also worked for Inside Mortgage Finance, a Bethesda, MD-based company providing B2B news and statistics on the residential mortgage business. Jessica holds a BSJ from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism along with a second major in Classics.
Myrra Bariring is Director of Accounting, with responsibility for cash disbursements, cash receipts and general accounting. Prior to joining NMHC, Myrra was the Accounting Manager for the American Public Transportation Association and prior to that, she spent sixteen years as the Accounting Manager for Pacific Scientific Instruments. Myrra brings 27 years of accounting experience to NMHC. Myrra received her BSC degree in Economics and Finance at the Polytechnic University in Manila, Philippines.
Chelsea Bowes, MA, is Web Manager at NMHC. Chelsea brings more than a decade of experience in digital communications and management for nonprofits and associations. She specializes in crafting impactful digital strategies, managing websites, and enhancing online presence. Her expertise also includes driving social media success and producing engaging podcasts and videos. Chelsea holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Christopher Newport University and a Master of Arts in Communication from George Mason University.
Expertise:
Apartment Supply Shortage, Apartment Supply Shortages, Market Trends, NMHC 50, Specialty Research Topics
Caitlin Sugrue Walter, Ph.D., is Senior Vice President of Research, with primary responsibility for overseeing NMHC's research efforts. Additionally, Caitlin is an active member of the National Association for Business Economics, a member of Up for Growth’s Advisory Board, the Research Institute for Housing America's Industry Advisory Board, and is a member of the Eastern Panhandle Advisory Council for Girls on the Run of the Shenandoah Valley. Prior to working at the Council, Caitlin was an analyst at a real estate advisory firm. Caitlin has a B.A. and B.S. (Planning and Public Policy, Criminal Justice) from Rutgers University. She also holds an M.A. in Urban and Regional Planning, a certificate in Nonprofit and Non-Governmental Organizations Management, and a Ph.D. in Planning, Governance and Globalization with a concentration on metropolitan economies and development from Virginia Tech.
Chris Bruen is Economist and Senior Director of Research, with primary responsibility for aiding in and expanding upon NMHC’s research in housing and economics. Prior to joining the Council, Chris conducted research on the behavioral tendencies exhibited by option traders and served as a contributor to the Shanghai-based business publication, MorningWhistle.com, where he wrote on topics relating to Sino-American economic policy. Chris holds a bachelor’s degree in Finance from The George Washington University and an M.S. in Economics from Johns Hopkins University.
Ryan Hecker is the team's Research Analyst, providing support for NMHC's research in housing and apartment industry trends. He graduated from the University of Rochester with a bachelor's degree in Economics and Political Science. Ryan's internship experience includes work on the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB)'s policy team and on FGS Global's government affairs team, where he aided in research on debt solutions and macroeconomic projections as well as covering of congressional hearings.
Expertise:
Mark H. Obrinsky, Ph.D., is Senior Advisor to NMHC's research department, where he previously served as SVP of Research and Chief Econommist. Mark was formerly Director of Regulatory Policy at Fannie Mae. Previous positions at Fannie Mae included Director of Applied Portfolio Research and Senior Economist. Prior to joining Fannie Mae, Mark was Deputy Director of the Economics Department at the U.S. League of Savings Institutions. His academic experience includes seven years teaching Economics at the University of Delaware and Bradley University. His work on housing, mortgage finance, and economic theory has appeared in leading professional and industry publications. Mark holds a Bachelor of Arts degree (with honors) in Mathematics from the University of Wisconsin and a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania.
Expertise:
Terrorism Insurance, Credit Reports, Property Operations, Mail and Package Delivery, Music Licensing, Technology and Telecommunications, Data Security and Privacy, Net Neutrality, Patent Reform, Telecommunications
Kevin Donnelly is Executive Director and Chief Advocacy Officer of RETTC. Before launching RETTC, Kevin served on NMHC’s Government Affairs team with responsibility for representing the interests of the multifamily industry before Congress and federal agencies focusing on technology, connectivity, risk management and their intersection with housing policy. Kevin was a part of NMHC’s Innovation and Technology team and led its Intelligent Buildings and Connectivity Committee and its Risk Management Working Group.
Kevin has spent nearly 20 years in the public policy and technology arenas at leading real estate trade associations and on Capitol Hill. Kevin received his BA from Rutgers University and his Masters in Public Management from Johns Hopkins University.
Sarah Yaussi brings over a decade of experience to her new role as the Head of Strategic Partnerships and Member Engagement at the Real Estate Technology & Transformation Center (RETTC).
With 12 years at the National Multifamily Housing Council, she has excelled in producing engaging content for websites, member communications, and industry publications. Sarah has been pivotal in tech and innovation initiatives, contributing to the OPTECH event and fostering collaboration between housing providers, tech innovators, and researchers. An avid advocate for advancing the rental housing industry, she has co-led influential projects like the Disruption report and the NMHC Rent Payment Tracker.
Sarah holds a B.A. in English from Colgate University and a Masters in Journalism from Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications. Fun fact: she also served as editor of the now-defunct Big Builder magazine, catering to top home builders.
Expertise:
Property Operations, Mail and Package Delivery, Music Licensing, Regulatory Reform, Technology and Telecommunications, Data Security and Privacy, Internet of Things, Telecommunications
Julianne Goodfellow is Head of Community and Policy of RETTC, with primary responsibility for data privacy, technology, property operations and regulatory reform from both an industry and federal policy perspective. In addition to her federal government affairs work, Julianne spearheads strategic initiatives including NMHC’s Diversity & Inclusion Initiative, a comprehensive effort to advance diversity and inclusion for the multifamily housing industry.
Previously, Julianne served as legislative assistant and district representative to Congressman Bill Delahunt. She also served as legislative director for a Massachusetts state representative. Julianne holds a Bachelor of Arts from the College of the Holy Cross.
Daria Dudzinski is the Director of Advocacy at RETTC, where she leads advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill and with federal policymakers to advance industry interests. She focuses on the intersection of real estate technology and business operations.
Prior to joining RETTC, she managed grassroots advocacy as a part of the National Association of REALTORS’ political team. Daria also served on the National Multifamily Housing Council’s government affairs team for seven years. She supported legislative work with a focus on technology, data security and privacy, emergency preparedness, and housing affordability. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from American University.
Jessica Kuney is the Administrative and Program Coordinator for RETTC. Prior to joining RETTC, Jessica has spent most of her working career supporting her colleagues in the meetings departments of trade-associations within the Washington, DC area. More recently, she transitioned to the administrative side where she brings her excellent organizational, process-management, strategic planning, communications, and relationship management skills to the table. Jessica provides top-notch customer service with a keen ability to produce the best possible results with limited resources.
Jessica holds a B.A. from American University where she studied English Literature. She lives in Washington, DC with her cat, Mishka. Jessica loves sunshine, cocktails and shopping. In her free time, you can find her escaping DC getting out on the hiking trails or exploring new towns.
Rick Haughey spent the last decade or so as the Vice President of Industry Technology Initiatives at NMHC. In the newly created position back in 2012, he was given the dream job of heading up the NMHC technology initiative as the apartment industry was in the midst of a rapid expansion of technology at the enterprise and property level. With the amazing NMHC team, he grew the NMHC Operations and Technology Conference into what is known today as just OPTECH, the premier multifamily technology conference.
Over the years, Rick envisioned and created new member-driven operations and technology committees and created numerous landmark surveys and reports all designed to help the apartment industry move forward in our new tech and innovation-enabled world.
Rick views RETTC as the exciting culmination of years of work and progress by NMHC and is happy to cap off his career serving as a Senior Advisor to the stellar team leading RETTC.
Lori Reeves in an “Industry Veteran” with over 30 years’ experience working on all aspects of technology in the multifamily industry. Lori spent most of her career at Forest City Residential (bought by Brookfield) as VP of Strategic Business Services and CIO where she led teams like Building Technology Services, Telecomm and Ancillary Income Services, Energy Services, and all IT Services departments.
After Forest City she joined the startup leadership team that formed Rose Community Management, for Jonathan Rose Companies, where she led Information Technology, Ancillary Income, Marketing, and Procurement. She has also spent time at The Related Companies, MRI Software, and Redwood Living.
Lori has worked with all types of housing from affordable to market rate and most every type in between – HUD and LIHTC, Military Housing, Mixed-Use, Senior Housing, Student Housing – and all of the associated software. Lori has been working as a Senior Advisor for NMHC since early 2023 focusing on the RETTC organization.
