NEW ROCHELLE, NY (October 30, 2024) — The Board of Commissioners of the New Rochelle Municipal Housing Authority (NRMHA) has announced the election of Orisha Jennings-Hudgins as Interim Executive Director effective October 1, 2024, following the retirement of Angela Davis-Farrish on September 30.
“We are immensely thankful to Angela for her hard work and dedication to the residents of our housing authority,” stated Tracey Smith, Chair of the Board. “During her tenure, she ensured that residents had access to safe and sanitary housing in the heart of our city. With over 20 years of service, Angela has supported families during challenging times and provided them with a place to call home.”
With over two decades of experience at NRMHA, Mrs. Davis-Farrish has held various roles, ultimately becoming the Executive Director of the Authority in 2016. She has successfully transformed a space into a library, fostering a culture of lifelong learning among residents. Additionally, she secured a $55 million RAD redevelopment conversion for two facilities serving senior and disabled residents. This initiative significantly improved the quality of life for 203 residents and generated substantial non-federal funding for the Authority. Mrs. Davis-Farrish
also serves as the Countrywide President of the Westchester Black Women’s Political Caucus, Chairperson of the Westchester County Housing Opportunity Commission, and is a Trustee on the Board of the National Public Housing Authorities Directors Association (PHADA), among her involvement in numerous other essential organizations. Her unwavering commitment to community development and advocacy has made her a respected figure in both local and national circles. Under her leadership, the NRMHA has not only enhanced its housing facilities but also launched several community programs aimed at economic empowerment, health, and wellness. She remains a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of dedicated leadership in making a tangible difference in the lives of others.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to have dedicated my heart and soul to the residents of the Housing Authority and the New Rochelle Community for two decades. Know that I love and will truly miss serving the most vulnerable residents of our community,” Angela Davis-Farrish expressed about her decision.
“Deciding to retire was a difficult decision, but I know that it was the right choice I made, and at the right season of my life. There is more work to do for true affordable housing, and I plan to keep fighting!”
Ms. Jennings-Hudgins serves as the Director of Housing for the City of New Rochelle, where she oversees the city’s affordable housing initiatives, including the New Rochelle Down Payment Assistance Program. She is dedicated to supporting residents facing housing challenges and developing educational programs related to housing and financial empowerment. Since joining the City in 2021, Ms. Jennings-Hudgins has brought over 17 years of experience from her tenure at the City of New York, primarily within the Finance Department at the New York City Housing
Authority (NYCHA). Now in her third year with the City of New Rochelle, she has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to enhancing housing conditions and accessibility for residents. Her strategic vision and innovative approaches have resulted in numerous successful initiatives during her time in this role.
“The City of New Rochelle extends its deepest gratitude to Angela for more than two decades of dedicated service to the New Rochelle Municipal Housing Authority. Her unwavering commitment and steadfast leadership during pivotal moments—both within the Authority and the broader community—have been truly invaluable,” said Adam Salgado, Commissioner of Development for the City of New Rochelle.
“As the NRMHA conducts a search for a permanent replacement, Orisha Jennings-Hudgins is exceptionally well-qualified to serve as Interim Executive Director. The Housing Authority plays a crucial role in the City’s mission to provide high-quality, affordable housing for all residents, and we look forward to supporting this important
transition.”
“I am honored to serve the Municipal Housing Authority during this pivotal time,” stated Orisha Jennings-Hudgins. “I join in expressing my deep appreciation to Angela for her dedication and passion and the strong foundation she has established, and I look forward to continuing the Authority’s critical housing mission in our community.”
In addition, the Board has appointed Imore Lewis-Long as the Deputy Director of Administration for the Housing Authority. With two and half years of experience in various roles within the Authority, she possesses the insights necessary to effectively address concerns related to the transition.
“Having worked with Imore over the past two years, I believe she is well-suited to
assist in this role, addressing the needs of the Housing Authority and it’s residents, it’s Board and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)” stated Orisha Hudgins.
The Board is currently in the process of determining the next steps in the search for a permanent Executive Director. NRMHA will continue to collaborate with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to address outstanding issues and ensure the Authority operates effectively for the benefit of its residents.