NAHRO Names Phil Bernal 2025 Commissioner of the Year
On September 29, the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) named Phil Bernal, commissioner on the board of Housing Connect, the 2025 Commissioner of the Year.
“Phil Bernal is an exemplary commissioner,” said NAHRO CEO Mark Thiele. “He’s an experienced leader who generously shares his time and experience with others, a fierce affordable housing advocate, and an effective communicator. I’m delighted to present him with this well-deserved award.”
Prior to serving on Housing Connect’s board, Bernal served two terms with the Housing Authority of Salt Lake City, where he led the agency through a period of transitions and successfully hired a new executive director. He’s also worked as a public servant at both the local and federal level, and actively advocates to promote affordable housing funding and development both locally and federally.
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.
About the Commissioner of the Year Award
This award honors a current commissioner, or one who has served within the past 12 months, who has demonstrated excellence in advocating for and developing the financial, political, and community support necessary to ensure the continuation and expansion of housing or community development programs. It was established in 1987 to honor the efforts of commissioners in the industry.
The first award was given to Ms. Elizabeth B. Wells whose own contributions included being a member of the Board of Commissioners of the King County (WA) Housing Authority and serving as NAHRO’s first Vice President of the Commissioners Committee.