NAHRO Presents 2026 Emerging Leader Award

October 20, 2026 — On October 16, the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials presented Kennard Randolph, President/CEO of the Selma Housing Authority, with the 2026 Emerging Leader award at the NAHRO National Conference and Exhibition in Denver, Colorado.

“As true leaders rise, they bring each successive generation with them,” said Mark Thiele, NAHRO CEO. “Kennard’s contributions at all levels of NAHRO, as well as his dedication to mentoring, professional development and succession planning, all exemplify effective and sustainable leadership. Congratulations Kennard on this well-deserved award.”

Under Randolph’s leadership, the Selma Housing Authority has become an award-winning agency recognized for redevelopment, innovation, resident services and operational excellence. As a leader, Randolph has served at the local, state, regional and national levels. Currently, he is a member of the NAHRO Emerging Leaders Subcommittee and remains active with SERC NAHRO, participating in leadership development and collaborative initiatives. He also mentors staff, promotes professional development, and prepares emerging leaders for success.

About The Emerging Leaders Award

The Emerging Leaders Award recognizes an individual who has been involved in NAHRO at the national, regional and/or chapter levels for at least five years and has distinguished him or herself as an emerging leader.

About NAHRO

NAHRO, established in 1933, is a membership organization of nearly 20,000 housing and community development agencies and professionals throughout the United States whose mission is to create affordable housing and safe, viable communities that enhance the quality of life for all Americans, especially those of low- and moderate-income. NAHRO’s membership administers more than 3 million housing units for 7.6 million people.