NAHRO Names Three 2026 Outstanding Professionals of the Year

October 22, 2026 — On October 16, NAHRO announced three recipients of the Outstanding Professional of the Year Award at the National Conference and Exhibition in Denver, Colorado. Here are this year’s awardees:

• Ben Bentley, Executive Director and CEO; Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation
• Bobby Collins, CEO; Housing Authority of Shreveport
• Preston Prince, CEO; Santa Clara County Housing Authority

“The winners of this award are not just exemplary housers,” said Mark Thiele, NAHRO CEO. “They’re also dedicated leaders, relentless advocates and partnership builders. Congratulations to Ben, Bobby and Preston – they all deserve to be recognized for their achievements.”

About the Outstanding Professional of the Year Award

The Outstanding Professional of the Year Award is NAHRO’s highest and most prestigious award. It honors an exceptionally qualified person who has made outstanding contributions to the quality of life through service in the field of housing or community development. The award is made on the merit of extraordinary accomplishments and contributions.

The award was established in 1975 in the name of M. Justin Herman. It was renamed and revamped in 2019 to better reflect the purpose of the award and to encourage nominees from all agency sizes to apply. 

About NAHRO

NAHRO, which was established in 1933, is a membership organization of more than 26,000 housing and community development providers and professionals throughout the United States. NAHRO members create and manage affordable housing for low- and middle-income families, and support vibrant communities that enhance the quality of life for all. NAHRO members administer more than 3 million homes for more than 8 million people.