Meet Our 2026-2027 HLI Cohort

Virginia Housing Alliance is excited to welcome the 2026–2027 Housing Leadership Institute cohort, an inspiring group of leaders dedicated to strengthening communities and expanding housing opportunities across Virginia. Representing a diverse range of organizations and perspectives, this year’s cohort includes professionals working in affordable housing development and preservation, homelessness response, housing finance, community engagement, resident services, public administration, advocacy, and nonprofit leadership.

From housing authorities and state agencies to community-based nonprofits, financial institutions, and emerging housing initiatives, these leaders bring a wealth of experience, expertise, and passion for creating more equitable and resilient communities. Together, they serve individuals and families across the housing continuum, helping to ensure that all Virginians have access to safe, stable, and affordable housing.

Over the next ten months, cohort members will learn from one another, challenge themselves as leaders, and build lasting relationships that strengthen both their work and the broader housing field. We are honored to support their leadership journeys and look forward to seeing the impact they will make in their communities and across the Commonwealth.

Please join us in welcoming the Housing Leadership Institute Class of 2026–2027!

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.

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. It is designed to leverage training, coaching, and peer support to help 15 mid-career housing professionals foster and grow leadership skills and create a career development plan to catalyze their leadership trajectory.