The Housing Action Council Board of Directors is proud to announce the appointment of Chance Mullen as our new Executive Director. With a rare blend of experience in local government and global philanthropy, Chance brings a unique perspective to Housing Action Council’s mission. As Executive Director, he will lead the organization’s work to support the development and preservation of affordable housing across Westchester and the Lower Hudson Valley — while expanding its capacity to meet the region’s evolving needs. Chance joins the organization after more than a decade at the Ford Foundation, where he supported teams and leaders across the globe in aligning their leadership, culture, and organizational practices with the foundation’s mission to reduce inequality. His direction of the Housing Action Council will be deeply influenced by his long-standing commitment to protecting the dignity of all people and building a just and equitable world.
Chance also serves as Mayor of the Village of Pelham, where he has driven housing growth, downtown revitalization, and major infrastructure investments. Under his leadership, Pelham is on track to expand its housing stock by more than 8% — its most significant growth since the 1920s. Through public-private partnerships and community-focused planning, this work has helped change the conversation about what’s possible in suburban communities, while delivering new housing at a range of price points and sizes. His work bridges policy and practice, always focused on aligning systems with human needs.
“The housing crisis in our region isn’t abstract — it’s playing out in the lives of working families, seniors on fixed incomes, and young people who can’t afford to live where they grew up,” said Chance Mullen. “Our low- and middle-income neighbors are feeling the pain most acutely. The Housing Action Council has long been a champion for everyday people, and I’m proud to carry that mission forward.”
In addition to its work with residents and developers, Housing Action Council is a vital partner to local governments. As Vice President of the Westchester Municipal Officials Association and chair of its subcommittee on Housing — and as a policy committee member for the New York Conference of Mayors — Chance brings deep, trusted relationships with municipal leaders across the region. His leadership will strengthen our organization’s ability to support cities, towns and villages with zoning, planning, and long-term housing strategies.
Chance takes the helm following the passing of Rosemarie Noonan, whose four-decade tenure built Housing Action Council into a trusted regional leader. Her legacy remains a guiding force as the organization steps into its next chapter.
“Chance brings a strategic mindset, a collaborative spirit, and a deep understanding of how policy and housing intersect,” said Bob Galvin, Chair of the Board of Directors. “He knows how to move between community concerns and long-term systems change — and he’s ready to lead in this critical moment.”
This is a pivotal time for housing in our region. With strong partnerships, a clear mission, and deep respect for the legacy that came before, Housing Action Council is ready to lead with purpose — working to ensure everyone has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and call this place home.