ED Honored by 25 Women You Need to Know

Brenda Williams, Executive Director of Tallahassee Housing Authority (THA), was named one of the Tallahassee Democrats 25 Women You Need to Know 2024.

In her 35-year career in affordable housing, Williams makes it her business to ensure that affordable housing is within reach of everyone she can. "Housing is a life necessity," she says, "and anything I can do to help people obtain it inspires me."

Williams chose Tallahassee. After working her way to the role of executive director of the St. Louis, MO, Housing Authority, serving as Transitional Administrator for the Camden New Jersey Housing Authority, and finally serving as the Chief of Staff for the New Orleans Housing Authority, she spent another 14 years in consulting work, providing strategic management services to housing agencies throughout the southwest.

"My day often begins with text messages from people looking for a home," she says. "When i can help someone find housing, it's a good day. I just wish i was able to help everyone." To that end, she is a volunteer for Tallahassee Crime Solvers as a board member. "I want to be part of the solution in the neighborhoods that are often served by my work," she said.

Much of her time is spent working on the $82 million redevelopment of the former Orange Avenue Apartments. "Moving someone into an apartment and off the street is the most rewarding part of my work," she says. "I like what i do because it's an opportunity to change lives for the better and help to make communities thrive."

Congratulations on this fantastic achievement, Brenda! To stay up-to-date with the Tallahassee Housing Authority, please visit their website at TallHA.org.