PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Sheena Wells

wellss@inksterhousing.org

(313) 561-2600

Inkster Housing Commission Announces Departure of CEO and President Aaron Cooper

INKSTER, Michigan, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Inkster Housing Commission (IHC) today announced the departure of its esteemed CEO and President, Aaron Cooper, who will be leaving the organization to pursue a new opportunity. Mr. Cooper has been an invaluable asset to the IHC, and his dedicated service and leadership will be greatly missed. We extend our sincere gratitude to Mr. Cooper for his exceptional contributions and wish him the very best in his future endeavors.

“During Mr. Cooper's tenure, the Inkster Housing Commission has achieved significant milestones, including the successful implementation of various community development initiatives, the expansion of affordable housing options, and the enhancement of resident services,” said Greg Gillette, chairman of the IHC Board of Commissioners. “Under his guidance, the IHC has remained committed to its mission of providing safe, decent, and affordable housing to individuals and families in need.”

In the interim, the IHC is pleased to announce that Ms. Gladys Neal, a seasoned executive with extensive experience in the housing sector, will serve as the interim Executive Director. Ms. Neal has been an integral part of the IHC's leadership team, contributing to the organization's success through her expertise in strategic planning and program management. Her commitment to the IHC's mission, coupled with her dedication to improving the lives of those we serve, makes her the ideal candidate to lead the organization during this transitional period.

“I would like to share my gratitude to the board of commissioners for the opportunity here at Inkster, and to the staff for their hard work in the success that we all have achieved. I also want to thank our residents, and the broader community as they were so welcoming,” said Aaron Cooper. “For the past three years, we have made significant strides in providing quality customer service while planning to improve the stock of housing throughout Inkster into the foreseeable future.” To ensure a seamless leadership transition, the IHC will initiate a national search for a permanent CEO and President. The search will be conducted with utmost diligence to identify a visionary leader who will continue to drive the IHC's mission forward and uphold its commitment to the community. The board of commissioners is committed to selecting a candidate who possesses the necessary skills, experience, and passion to lead the IHC into the future.

The Inkster Housing Commission remains steadfast in its mission to provide affordable housing opportunities and enhance the quality of life for our residents. We are grateful for the continued support of our community partners, stakeholders, and dedicated employees, without whom our achievements would not have been possible. “Together, we will navigate this transition and build upon the solid foundation laid by Mr. Cooper, ensuring the continued success of the Inkster Housing Commission,” said Greg Gillette.

For more information, please call (313) 561-2600 or visit our website www.inksterhousing.org.

About Inkster Housing Commission

The Inkster Housing Commission (IHC) was created in 1950 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Initially, the IHC was a municipal department of the City of Inkster, a small, urban, blue-collar community 20 miles from Detroit. In 2004, IHC became an independent, self-sustaining, HUD-funded nonprofit agency, following a change in state law that made all housing authorities independent of municipalities.

Inkster Housing Commission (IHC) is governed by a five-member Board of Commissioners appointed by the Mayor of Inkster, Michigan, to 5-year staggered terms. The IHC's mission is to enrich lives by building inclusive communities and empowering families for long-term economic success. 

IHC’s vision is to be the premier affordable housing provider locally, regionally, and nationally that fosters diverse and vibrant communities including housing, education, and economic growth.