Board Members

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.

LaShawn Cobb was named to the Chicago Housing Authority Board of Commissioners by Mayor Brandon Johnson in 2024. An Assistant Teacher at the University of Chicago (Earl Shapiro Hall) since 2019, Commissioner Cobb is passionate about building strong relationships with children and families and establishing environments that allow for greater learning.

Juliana Gonzalez-Crussi is the Executive Director of Center for Changing Lives, a financial opportunity center providing bilingual employment, economic, and resource development coaching in Chicago. An accomplished public service leader, Ms. Gonzalez-Crussi has a profound understanding of non-profits and the affordable housing industry.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.