Veteran financial strategist to lead organization through next stage of growth, modernization, and capital expansion
SAN RAFAEL, Calif. (Jan. 13, 2025) – EAH Housing, one of the largest and most respected nonprofit housing organizations in the western United States, today announced the appointment of Duane Hopkins as Chief Financial Officer. Hopkins brings more than 25 years of financial leadership experience, including nearly 15 years in affordable housing, real estate development, and organizational transformation.
“Duane brings a rare combination of financial expertise, mission alignment, and a deep understanding of the affordable housing landscape,” said Laura Hall, CEO of EAH Housing. “His leadership will be essential as we work to expand our development and preservation pipeline, strengthen our capital strategy, and position the organization for long-term success.”
In this role, Hopkins oversees financial strategy, accounting, treasury, governance support, operations, and information technology. He is currently leading efforts to modernize financial systems, enhance internal processes, and establish a dedicated treasury department – all foundational to positioning EAH Housing for its next phase of growth and expansion.
“As chief financial officer, I see my role as helping shape the organization’s future, and I’m excited to bring that focus to EAH Housing,” said Hopkins. “This team is deeply committed to its mission, and the organization is experiencing significant growth. My goal is to help strengthen our financial foundation and ensure we are positioned to accelerate development across the regions we serve.”
Hopkins previously served in senior leadership roles at Housing Catalyst in Colorado and the Oakland Housing Authority, where he managed financial strategy, oversaw complex development pipelines, and led organizational restructuring efforts. Earlier in his career, he spent more than a decade working with Native American tribes as a financial turnaround specialist, helping to build internal capacity, strengthen governance and operational systems, and establish a certification program for financial executives serving the tribes.
Hopkins is also nationally recognized for advancing professional development in the affordable housing field. He has served in leadership roles within the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO), where he championed education and career path programs for senior financial professionals. He previously served on the board of a national insurance group dedicated exclusively to public and private affordable housing providers.
About EAH Housing
EAH Housing is a nonprofit corporation that aims to expand the range of opportunities for all by developing, managing, and promoting quality affordable housing and thriving communities. Established in 1968, EAH Housing has become one of the largest and most respected nonprofit housing development and management organizations in the Western United States. It has over 750 employees and plays a leadership role in local, regional, and national housing advocacy efforts.
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Starting from grass-roots origins in response to the death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., EAH Housing now serves over 25,000 families, older adults, veterans, formerly unhoused individuals, people with special needs, transitional age youth (TAY), artists, farm workers, and students across more than 240 communities in California and Hawai’i. Combining award-winning design, innovative onsite services, and a commitment to people, EAH Housing reflects the distinctive personality of each community.
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