As INHS marks its fiftieth year of advancing safe, stable, and affordable housing opportunities, we are pleased to announce the appointment of two distinguished community leaders to its Board of Directors: Constance A. Graham, Ph.D., and Nick Lundgren, J.D.

These appointments reinforce our long-standing commitment to expanding access to affordable housing, supporting neighborhood stability, and fostering equitable community development throughout its seven-county service area.

Dr. Constance Graham brings decades of leadership experience spanning K–12 education administration, clinical and community mental health, and nonprofit executive oversight. A long-time Ithaca homeowner whose first experience with INHS came through its homeownership programs, Dr. Graham has been a vocal supporter of affordable and sustainable housing initiatives.

Her career includes serving as Principal of Diven Elementary School in Elmira, where she led successful academic retention initiatives in collaboration with parents, community partners, and district leadership. She has also held administrative and clinical roles in the Rochester City School District, Ithaca City School District, NYS Office of Mental Health, and NYS Office of Family and Children’s Services.

“I have seen first-hand the impact that stable, affordable housing can have on families and communities,” Dr. Graham shared. “I am eager to support the mission that once supported me as a first-time homeowner.”

Nick Lundgren is a seasoned leader in affordable housing law, policy, and development, with more than two decades of experience in public service, nonprofit leadership, and government operations. He currently serves as a Lecturer in Cornell University’s Department of City and Regional Planning, teaching courses on affordable housing law, homelessness policy, and land use law. He is also General Counsel for New Destiny Housing Corporation, a nonprofit serving domestic violence survivors seeking safe, stable housing.

Lundgren previously served as Deputy Commissioner and General Counsel for NYC’s Department of Housing Preservation and Development, Deputy Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Housing, and Director of Housing and Community Development for the State of Connecticut.

“Affordable housing is both a legally complex and a human imperative,” Lundgren said. “I’m honored to help strengthen an organization that has been a national model for community-based housing solutions for half a century.”

“Constance and Nick bring exceptional expertise and deep commitment to strengthening affordable housing — Constance through her lived experience and community‑centered leadership, and Nick through his national‑level policy and legal expertise,” said INHS Executive Director Kate de la Garza. “Together, their insight and dedication will be invaluable as we shape our next fifty years of service.”

INHS also thanks outgoing board member, Lacey Lent for her 10 years of service as a dedicated member of the INHS Board of Directors.