We are proud to feature Denaya Humphrey, a member of our third HLI Cohort. An experienced Property Manager II with a strong background in affordable housing, tax credit compliance, and community-focused leadership, Denaya brings discipline, adaptability, and strong leadership skills to her work—qualities honed during her service as a Sergeant (E-5) in the United States Air Force. Currently at Community Housing Partners, she oversees daily property operations while ensuring compliance with LIHTC regulations, Fair Housing standards, recertifications, and resident retention initiatives. Those who work with her consistently describe her as collaborative, adaptable, and empowering—someone who leads with integrity and genuine compassion.
What sets Denaya apart is her deep belief that affordable housing is about more than managing properties and ensuring compliance. It’s about recognizing the humanity in the work. She approaches her role not just as a manager, but as an advocate and resource for the communities she serves.
Q: What was there a particular moment or experience that inspired you to pursue a career in affordable housing?
"I was inspired by seeing how safe, stable housing can transform a family's future."
I chose affordable housing because I wanted a career where my work would not only manage properties, but also strengthen families and communities.
One of my most meaningful successes was supporting a resident experiencing severe depression and suicidal thoughts. By listening with compassion and connecting them with appropriate professional resources, I helped them access the support they needed. That experience reminded me that affordable housing is not just about providing a home—it is also about recognizing the humanity and needs of every resident.
Q: What is your current role, and what are your main responsibilities?
I currently serve as a Property Manager II for low-income affordable housing. My responsibilities include overseeing daily operations, leasing, recertifications, regulatory compliance, rent collection, inspections, maintenance coordination, budgeting, and resident relations. However, I am more than a property manager; I listen, empathize, and treat every resident with dignity. When someone is facing hardship, I connect them with available resources and assistance because managing a community is not only about the property; it is about caring for the people who call it home.
Q: How has the affordable housing landscape changed over the past few years?
Over the past few years, affordable housing has become more challenging as rents, operating costs, and the demand for quality housing have continued to rise. Property managers now require more than maintaining buildings and ensuring compliance; it requires creativity, compassion, and strong community partnerships. Residents are facing increasingly complex hardships, making our role in connecting them with resources and preserving stable housing more important than ever.
Q: How do you see the field of affordable housing evolving in the next few years?
I believe affordable housing will become more resident-centered, technology-driven, and connected to supportive services. As demand continues to grow, the field will require stronger partnerships, creative funding solutions, and greater focus on preserving existing communities. Most importantly,
successful housing professionals will need to balance compliance and operations with compassion, ensuring residents have both a stable home and access to resources that help them thrive.
Q: What do you find most rewarding about your work in affordable housing?
The most rewarding part of my work is knowing that I am helping provide more than housing—I am helping create stability and hope. Whether I am connecting a resident with resources, helping a family remain in their home, or simply listening during a difficult time, knowing that I made a meaningful difference is what makes this work so fulfilling.
Q: How do you stay motivated and passionate about your work in the face of challenges?
I stay motivated by remembering the people behind the paperwork.
Even on the most challenging days, knowing that my work can help a family remain stable, connect a resident with critical resources, or give someone a bit of hope reminds me why I chose this field.
Every positive outcome, no matter how small, renews my passion and purpose.
Q: Do you have any hobbies or interests that help you unwind and stay balanced?
I enjoy spending quality time with my family, serving through my church, and writing poetry. My faith keeps me grounded, while family time and creative expression allow me to recharge, reflect, and maintain a healthy balance.
Q: How would you sum up your experience with HLI in one sentence?
My HLI experience has been transformative, strengthening my leadership skills, expanding my perspective, and reaffirming my commitment to creating meaningful change in affordable housing.
We’re grateful for Denaya’s contributions to affordable housing and excited to support her continued growth and leadership through the Housing Leadership Institute. Her commitment to balancing operational excellence with deep compassion for residents strengthens our field and our communities.
About the Housing Leadership Institute
The Housing Leadership Institute (HLI) is a 10-month intensive and targeted program created and implemented by the Virginia Housing Alliance. The Alliance and its partners designed the program to leverage training, coaching, and peer support. Each year, we help 15 mid-career housing professionals foster and grow leadership skills. Through the program, participants create a career development plan to catalyze their leadership trajectory.
The program consists of 7 virtual sessions, 3 in-person retreats across the Commonwealth, 5 one-on-one coaching sessions, readings and reflections to supplement each session, and additional networking and professional development opportunities.
Learn more about HLI or contact Arley Bell at abell@vahousingalliance.org.