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Meet the Board

Meet the Board

The CHA Board of Commissioners governs by setting policies and approving decisions for programs and CEO actions. Members are confirmed by the Chicago City Council, must be Chicago residents, with at least three being CHA residents.
Board of Commissioners - Matthew Brewer

Matthew Brewer, Interim Chairman

Matthew Brewer, a partner at Bartlit Beck, specializes in complex business litigation. He holds degrees from Stanford, Yale, and Harvard and has experience in the Chinese music industry.
Board of Commissioners - Luis Gutierrez

Luis Gutierrez

Luis Gutierrez founded Latinos Progresando in 1998 to serve Chicago's Pilsen and Little Village communities. He also launched the Marshall Square Resource Network and serves on several civic and nonprofit boards.
Board of Commissioners - Dr. Mildred Harris

Dr. Mildred Harris

As a CHA Commissioner, Dr. Harris created the "Adopt-A-Senior Building" program, raising funds to refurbish 57 CHA senior buildings. Founder of God First Church, she’s also a philanthropist and author, with numerous awards.
Jawanza Malone, Board of Commissioners

Jawanza Malone

Jawanza Malone is the Executive Director of the Wieboldt Foundation. He comes from the Kenwood-Oakland Community Organization (KOCO), one of the oldest Black-led grassroots membership-based community-organizing groups in Chicago, where he served as a community organizer, coalition builder, and executive director.
Board of Commissioners - James Matanky

James Matanky

James E. Matanky is CEO of Matanky Realty Group, overseeing development, management, and consulting. He chairs the ICSC Ambassador Program and serves on multiple advisory panels. He’s a decorated community leader.
Board of Commissioner Debra Parker

Debra Parker

Debra Parker, a 23-year community activist, mentors low-income families, and advocates for better life choices. She founded Carol's Consulting, aiding small minority businesses with permits.
Board of Commissioner Francine Washington

Francine Washington

Francine Washington joined the CHA Board in June 2014. She leads advisory councils and boards, advocates for community issues, and directs the CHA Summer Food Program.