Story #74: Julia Gordon on PBHA Deepening Her Sense of Empathy and Pursuing Housing Equity

A distinguished leader in housing policy, Julia's journey from PBHA committee chair and student officer in 1985 to Assistant Secretary for Housing at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reflects the transformative power of service and advocacy. Today, Julia is at the forefront of shaping policies that support homebuyers, renters, and communities across the nation. Nominated by President Biden and confirmed by the Senate, she continues to be a passionate advocate for housing equality and consumer protections.

Julia's time at PBHA was instrumental in shaping her career. In PBHA’s 2023 Alumni Survey, Julia noted:

“My PBHA experience helped me develop skills that were immediately applicable to my career goals following graduation.”

This early involvement in public service provided her with the autonomy and responsibility to make meaningful contributions.

“What stood out most to me about PBHA was the autonomy and responsibility that we were given to run the organization at all levels.”

Integrating these experiences in her career, she highlighted:

“I’ve continued to prioritize the integration of direct service and structural change throughout my career, finding that it not only provides a more satisfying professional and personal experience but also results in better policy work.”

Empathy and Understanding

Julia's experiences at PBHA also deepened her empathy for others. Though her PBHA journey began in the early 80s, a time when discussions around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) were not yet mainstream, Julia's work has consistently centered these critical issues.

“I benefited greatly from developing empathy for others' lived experiences….there’s no doubt that my experience prepared me to center those issues in my work.”

Her direct service work, particularly in prisons, was especially transformative.

“My direct service work in prisons was life-changing and completely altered the frame through which I viewed my college experience.”

This exposure helped Julia step outside her comfort zone, challenging her perspective and expanding her understanding of systemic issues.

Leadership and Legacy

Julia's leadership roles within PBHA, including chairing a committee and serving on the board, further honed her skills.

“Additionally, my leadership roles as the chair of a committee and on the board, as well as an independent study project that I arranged for preparing grant proposals for PBHA, were immediately applicable to my career after college.”

As we celebrate Julia Gordon's remarkable contributions to public service and her unwavering dedication to housing equity, her journey is a testament to the impact of PBHA. Julia's story inspires current and future generations to engage in meaningful service and advocate for systemic change. Through her leadership and commitment to public interest work, Julia embodies the spirit of PBHA, proving that with dedication, empathy, and a strong sense of responsibility, we can all contribute to a more equitable world.