Council of State Community Development Agencies Elects Gordon Walker as New President
WASHINGTON, DC – January 11, 2011 – (RealEstateRama) — The Council of State Community Development Agencies (COSCDA) today announced that it has elected Gordon Walker as its new President. Walker, Director of the Utah Division of Housing and Community Development, will succeed Rick Ballard, Director, Office of Community Development, Michigan State Housing Development.Walker brings extensive management and public service experience to COSCDA, the premier national association advocating and enhancing the leadership role of states in community development through innovative policy development and implementation, customer-driven technical assistance, education, and collaborative efforts.
In addition, COSCDA advocates for the interests of states with federal policy makers. COSCDA analyzes proposed legislation and budget initiatives, helps states share information about best practices and produces a variety of newsletters and technical reports. In addition COSCDA offers members technical assistance on many community development and housing related issues.
As Director of the Utah Division of Housing and Community Development, Walker has implemented the state’s acclaimed and innovative Ten-year Plan to End Chronic Homelessness. Nationally, he is recognized as a leader, bringing together state, local and community leaders to collaborate in solving difficult issues. He serves as Chairman of the Utah Permanent Community Impact Fund Board and Private Activity Bond Board. Walker provides counsel to the state’s Olene Walker Housing Loan Fund Board and the Utah State Homeless Coordinating Committee.
Walker holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Brigham Young University and a master’s degree in business administration from Harvard Business School.
“COSCDA is enormously fortunate to have Gordon take the helm,” said Dianne Taylor, COSCDA Executive Director. “Not only does he bring the depth and breadth of community development and program implementation that will be instrumental in our continued initiatives, but he already has an extensive knowledge of the organization having served on our board and as Vice President.”
“I am honored to continue my service with COSCDA as President at this exciting time,” Walker said. “COSCDA has long been a leader and an innovator in its national efforts in advocating and enhancing the role of states through innovative policy development. I’m very proud to have the opportunity to help build on that tradition, as COSCDA continues to reach out and influence federal policy makers. There is a greater opportunity today to create affordable housing, enhance community and economic development and build upon local and federal relationships. I look forward to helping COSCDA continue and expand its leadership in these crucial efforts.”
The Council of State Community Development Agencies (COSCDA) represents state community development and housing agencies responsible for administering Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs, including the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, the HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) program and the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Programs.
