Committees

Communications

The Communications Committee functions as the marketing and communications powerhouse behind WAHN Atlanta, focused on enhancing the image and credibility of the organization. The Communications Committee positions WAHN and its members in a positive and professional manner through a network of communication tools, including: website, social media and Year in Review.

Chair:

Brittany Cosby, Marketing Coordinator | Tidwell Group

Programs

The Programs Committee is responsible for the content of WAHN luncheon programs, including the Virtual Speaker Series. The Committee brainstorms to develop programs, secure speakers and panelists with relevant expertise, outline the content of the discussion around the interests of our membership and industry, and provides input as to unique program locations to complement each topic. Program Leaders will gain the opportunity to further develop leadership skills, work with and learn from the speakers, and participate in on-stage introductions. WAHN’s Mentorship Program is held over a 12-month period that focuses on pairing a mentee and a seasoned affordable housing professional’s goals, strengths and competences. During this time period, the mentee and mentor will set up a mutually agreed upon communication timeline. In addition, events specifically for mentors and proteges will be held throughout the year. The 2021 cohort includes a diverse group of 7 women from several disciplines of affordable housing. The program is held bi-annually.

Chair:

Kristin M. Zemansky, Senior Asset Manager | US Bank CDC

Sponsorship

Each year the Sponsorship committee members reach out to Affordable Housing community in the Atlanta area and ask businesses and members to assist in furthering our mission in influencing the success of our industry by advancing the achievements of women. It is because of our Sponsors generosity that we are able to provide programs and leadership opportunities to all WAHN members.

Chair:

Jen Nyquist, Senior Asset Manager | Columbia Residential

Philanthropy

The Philanthropy committee raises funds for local nonprofit organizations whose missions are to elevate others. The Scholarship subcommittee is charged with the implementation of the application and selection process. WAHN provides $1,500 awards to young women  lifting up the next generation of women in Affordable Housing Industry. Some of the community giveback WAHN is involved in includes: Atlanta Food Bank, Atlanta Habitat for Humanity, and Delowe.

Chairs:

Jocelyn Smith, Director of Operations | Georgia Advancing Communities Together, Inc.

Grace Baranowski, Community Development Advisor | Purpose Built Communities

Book Club

WAHN is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. WAHN hosts a monthly DEI book club, reading and discussing member-selected works of fiction and nonfiction. Discussions are intimate and allow members to support one another in their efforts to center DEI in their work and personal lives. Anyone is encouraged to attend, even if you don't have the opportunity to finish the book prior to the discussion. Discussions are typically the 4th Wednesday of the month, from 6-7 PM. All meetings are currently virtual.

Previous books include:

  • The Color of Law by Richard Rothstein
  • The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates
  • The Fire This Time by Jesmyn Ward

Upcoming books include:

  • January 27, 2021: The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America's Great Migration by Isabel Wilkerson
  • February 24, 2021: Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward
  • March 24, 2021: The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander

Reach out to Grace Graszer at gm.graszer@dca.ga.gov if you'd like to join, recommend books, or have any questions.