Ellen M. Lee

Ellen M. Lee brings vast experience to her role at the Foundation.  Prior to joining the Foundation, Ellen served as assistant director of the Disaster Recovery Unit (DRU) within the State of Louisiana’s Office of Community Development. The DRU was responsible for administering over $13 billion in federal funds following the devastation caused by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Prior to going to work for the state, Ellen served as the deputy executive assistant for Neighborhood Development with the City of New Orleans. She oversaw the administration of $30 million in federal, state and local funds to address housing and community development needs in the Greater New Orleans area. In 2009 Ellen was named by HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan to a 12-member advisory panel to turn around the Housing Authority of New Orleans (HANO).  Ellen was directly responsible for planning, development, and evaluation of housing and community services for low- and moderate-income residents, the homeless and for people living with HIV/AIDS.  She serves on the board of directors of the Urban League of Greater New Orleans, New Orleans Outreach, the NOCCA Institute, the New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute, and the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority. In 2009, in recognition of Ellen’s lifelong accomplishments and commitment to the New Orleans’ community, she was recognized as a New Orleans Freedom’s Sister.