Valerie León, Executive Director, Mitchell-Lama Portfolio, NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD). Valerie León is a Bronx native and first-generation college graduate with over two decades of leadership in affordable housing and community development. As Executive Director of the Mitchell-Lama Portfolio at NYC’s Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), she oversees 43,000 affordable housing units, ensuring their long-term affordability. Previously, she led HPD’s Hurricane Sandy Recovery Program, rebuilding 250 homes through strategic leadership and navigating complex regulatory requirements.

A former Peace Corps Volunteer in Thailand, Valerie promoted community-based development and cross-cultural collaboration. She serves on the Board of Directors at Women in Housing and Finance, Inc., and is a member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee at the Urban Land Institute. Valerie holds an MPA from Columbia University, a BA in Government from Wesleyan University, a Real Estate Finance Certificate from Baruch College and is a Certified Life Coach. Valerie is passionate about mentoring emerging leaders in housing and public service, inspiring the next generation to create meaningful change in their communities.