LAS VEGAS — Nevada HAND is proud to announce the selection of Audra Hamernik as the organization’s President and CEO, effective Monday, August 19, 2019. Hamernik is relocating from Illinois and brings with her more than 25 years of experience in real estate, financial services, social impact investing and lending, and community leadership.
Hamernik was most recently the Executive Director of the Illinois Housing Development Authority, leading a 300-person team to expand housing opportunities throughout the state. She has also served as Principal of A. Hamernik & Associates, Inc., leading the company’s development in affordable housing finance, and as Executive Director of Bluestem Housing Partners, a nonprofit housing developer. Hamernik brings a wide range of expertise in advancing opportunities for underserved communities, developing public-private partnerships to expand housing and economic opportunities, and building high-performing teams. She earned her Master of Arts degree, as well as her Bachelor of Arts degree, in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Illinois.
“I am thrilled to be joining the team at Nevada HAND and the Southern Nevada community,” Hamernik said. “I look forward to working collaboratively with our staff, Board of Directors, residents, and community stakeholders to continue growing the exceptional work of the organization. Together, we will create opportunities to live well for more of Nevada’s families and seniors.”
Nevada HAND is the state’s largest nonprofit provider of affordable rental housing, with more than 4,300 apartment homes serving more than 7,600 children, adults, and seniors. Hamernik will succeed CEO and Founder Mike Mullin, who is retiring at the end of August after 26 years with the organization.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors of Nevada HAND, I am proud to welcome Audra to Nevada HAND. Her expertise, perspective, and enthusiasm will propel the organization’s future growth,” Kenneth Ladd, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Nevada HAND, said. “Audra’s strong leadership, combined with her deep industry knowledge and proven track record, uniquely position her to lead Nevada HAND into its next phase of growth and community impact.”
About Nevada HAND
Nevada HAND is the state’s largest nonprofit 501(c)(3) dedicated to the development, management, and administration of high-quality homes and supportive services for working families and seniors on fixed incomes. The organization serves residents with onsite wellness, school success, workforce development and financial education, and community engagement services, creating opportunities for residents to live well and for neighborhoods to thrive. There are 35 Nevada HAND communities in Southern Nevada, including two affordable assisted living facilities, which provide 24-hour support to individuals needing a higher level of care. Two additional developments are slated for welcoming residents in fall 2019, as well. For information, visit www.nevadahand.org call (702) 739-3345.
