10/15/2026
NatCon26’s opening plenary session began with a lively dance performance from the Latino Arts and Culture Institute Studio Company. Thank you for energizing us with your moves, energy and shrugging lessons!
NAHRO CEO Mark Thiele welcomed attendees, thanked sponsors, shared information about NAHRO, and encouraged housers to “blaze your trail in this great company.” Spoken word poet and National Public Housing Museum Associate Director Tiff Beatty then performed a powerful poem interweaving housers, the homes they help create, and the HUD programs they use into national and personal history.
Following remarks from Layla Hayavi, Chair of visionary sponsor LHAC, NAHRO President Sean Gilbert gave an inspiring speech about the power of NAHRO, with its national membership with different opinions and experiences, who don’t need to agree on everything but are united on one fundamental front: we all believe that housing matters, and that it is more than just a roof over heads – it’s workforce development, education, help, hope and opportunity. DHA interim CEO Joshua Crowley welcomed guests, spoke about how the agency’s responding to the growing local need for safe, stable and affordable housing, and reminded sea-level attendees that a water bottle, sunscreen and lip balm are not optional. HAI Group’s Jamie Calli explained the history of the member-owned organization, and noted that “partnership matter” – they don’t just want to insure housing agencies, but also to advocate, support and strengthen the affordable housing industry.
Next, HUD Assistant Secretary of Public and Indian Ben Hobbs said that he was impressed by the dedication of housers to improving the lives of their residents, outlined HUD’s five policy priorities. Maiker Housing CEO Peter LiFari introduced Denver Governor Jared Polis, who provided an update on some of the many ways in which his administration is enabling the creation of affordable housing, including the signing of the HOME act, allowing ADUs, reforming condo liability laws to increase supply, and creating a workforce housing tax credit.
NAHRO’s July Harvey then shared some information about NAHRO Professional Development’s offerings – and the hot pretzel giveaway in the exhibit hall! Jeanette Porter talked about Yardi’s commitment to implementing HOTMA changes for their customers on time, and introduced plenary speaker Mandy Harvey, who shared her life story and how she rebuilt her ability to play music and sing after losing her hearing. She performed two of her songs, including “Try,” and taught the audience how to sign “Over the Rainbow” in ASL.
What an inspiring beginning to NatCon26. Next up: the concurrent sessions!
