2026 Northeast Housing Summit
The NERCRD convened a multi-state team to plan a Northeast Housing Summit, which took place virtually on September 22, 2026.
The Northeast Housing Summit provided an opportunity for participants across the Northeast region to learn from one another and expand capacity for housing programming in the Northeast.
The Summit was recorded and those recordings will be made available soon.
Agenda
- A printer-friendly schedule with full abstracts is available here. [PDF].
- Click on the sessions below for more detailed information about each session.
- Speaker Bios are available below.
10:00 – 10:15 a.m. — Opening Remarks (Stephan Goetz, Director, NERCRD)
Session 1, Track A: Housing Data, Research & Emerging Trends Track
10:15 – 10:45: Spatial Analysis for Housing Strategies
- Speakers: Harry Crissy, Penn State Extension
- Abstract: This program explores geospatial data to identify opportunities to improve available community housing stock.
10:45 – 11:15: Statewide Zoning Reform and Housing Production: The Initial Impact of Maine’s LD 2003
- Speakers: Kelsi G. Hobbs and Rebecca Bian, University of Maine
- We examine the initial impact of Maine’s statewide zoning reform (LD 2003) on housing production. Initial results suggest no overall change in housing production, but a shift away from single family production toward multifamily. These results indicate that Maine’s statewide zoning reform may be changing housing production preferences.
11:15 – 11:30 Q&A + transition
Session 1, Track B: Partnerships, Programs & Community Impact Track
10:15 – 10:45: Florida’s Land-Grant Universities: Scaling Housing Education and Impact
- Speakers: Lisa Hamilton, Jenny Rodriguez, Melanie Taylor, Giovanna Benitez, Cyndi Longley, Katherine Allen, Halie Corbitt, Terri Keith, Stephanie McMinds, Natasha Parks, Cindi Hetz, Judy Corbus, Jill Breslawski, Laura Valencia, Clair Davis, and Kimberly McMahon- all from UF/IFAS Extension; and Carla Adams-Lippett and Cheyenne Martin, from Florida A&M University
- Abstract: Florida’s two land-grant universities — UF/IFAS Extension and FAMU Cooperative Extension — have partnered to expand housing affordability education across 41 counties, reaching 1,589 participants. Their collaboration extends outreach into underserved communities, with 30% of homebuyer participants purchasing homes and 81% of renter participants avoiding eviction.
10:45 – 11:15: PVAMU GAP Assistance Initiative: An Inspired Reimagining of Cross-Sector Homeownership Education Through Collaborative Partnerships and Transformative Housing Capacity Building
- Speaker: Dr. Shanta Harrison, Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU)
- Abstract: PVAMU Extension’s Community and Economic Development Unit addresses USDA Rural Development service gaps through Application Days, housing counseling, financial education, and packaging assistance. This cross-sector partnership improves application outcomes, expands access to homeownership resources, and strengthens pathways to affordable homeownership for underserved rural Texans.
11:15 – 11:30 Q&A + transition
Session 1, Track C: Planning, Policy & Housing Innovation Track
10:15 – 10:45: Planning for Agriculture & Housing in New Hampshire
- Speakers: Noah Hodgetts, NH Department of Business and Economic Affairs; Sarah Wrightsman, New Hampshire Housing; Jamie Pottern, American Farmland Trust
- Abstract: This session will highlight the NH Housing & Farmland Protection Workgroup, formed in October 2025 and the development of an interactive toolkit of win-win solutions. The workgroup brings together housing professionals, planners, farmland conservation leaders, developers, and policy advocates to address the intersection of housing development and agricultural land protection.
10:45 – 11:15: Housing Preferences and Affordability Relevant to Tennessee Rural Gentrification: Evidence from a Choice Experiment
- Speakers: Sreedhar Upendram, University of Tennessee; James Mingie, University of Tennessee; Serkan Varol, University of Tennessee-Chattanooga; Charlie Mix, University of Tennessee-Chattanooga; Serkan Catma, University of South Carolina-Beaufort
- Abstract: This study examines how respondents trade off housing composition, neighborhood, natural amenities, community, and housing costs, with attention to rural gentrification pressures in Tennessee. The findings suggest that rural gentrification may be shaped not only by spatial spillovers and land conversion, but also by preference-driven demand for low-density residential environments with access to services, with implications for housing affordability, land-use planning, and displacement risk.
11:15 – 11:30 Q&A + transition
11:30 – 11:45 AM — Break
Session 2, Track A: Housing Data, Research & Emerging Trends Track
12:15-12:45 Measuring the Impacts of Short-Term Rentals on Affordable Housing and Community Vitality in Rural Tourism Destinations in the Northeast
- Speakers: Doug Arbogast and Daniel Eades, West Virginia University Extension; Daniel Centuriao, Northeast Regional Center for Rural Development; David Nason and Heather Stephens, Regional Research Institute, West Virginia University; Jacquelyn Strager, Natural Resource Analysis Center and Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, West Viriginia University
- Abstract: This presentation shares preliminary findings from a multi-state study examining relationships among short-term rentals, housing conditions, and tourism across the Northeast. Using AirDNA and secondary data, we identify emerging patterns and discuss how Extension professionals and community leaders can use data to inform housing planning, research, and policy discussions.
11:45 -12:15 From Maps to Policy: How the NH Zoning Atlas Catalyzed Statewide Zoning Reform
- Speakers: Elissa Margolin, Initiative for Housing Policy and Practice; Noah Hodgetts, New Hampshire Office of Business and Economic Affairs; Nick Taylor, Housing Action NH; Rick Lederer-Barnes, Upstate GIS
- Abstract: The NH Zoning Atlas transformed the conversation about housing and land use in New Hampshire by providing the first comprehensive statewide picture of local zoning regulations and infrastructure capacity. This session explores how researchers, state agencies, and advocates used the Atlas to identify regulatory barriers, inform legislation, strengthen public understanding, and advance evidence-based housing policy, offering lessons for states across the Northeast.
12:45 – 1:00 – Q&A + transition
Session 2, Track B: Partnerships, Programs & Community Impact Track
11:45 – 12:15 Housing for Efficient, Affordable, Resilient Thriving Communities
- Speakers: Linda Shi (presenting), Christa Daniels, Sharon Klein, Susanne Moser, Erich Osterberg
- Abstract: Extreme disasters exacerbate the ongoing housing crises in the Northeast. This presentation shares how research, policy experimentation, and collaborative practice can help the region develop Housing for Efficient, Affordable, Resilient THriving communities regionwide (HEARTH).
12:15-12:45: Energy+: A Collaborative Effort to Study and Develop Best Practices for Energy Efficient Retrofits and New Builds in Affordable Housing
- Speakers: Morgan Wasikonis, The HOME Foundation; Colleen Ritter, State College Community Land Trust; Lisa Iulo, Penn State Hamer Center for Community Design; Rachel Fawcett, Pennsylvania Housing Research Center
- Abstract: Since 2017, Energy+ has advanced energy efficient housing as a necessity for low- to moderate-income households in State College, PA. A dedicated cross sector group of practitioners including Community Based Organizations, municipal leaders, and Penn State-affiliated researchers prioritize cost savings and health benefits through data-driven, energy efficient design in housing rehabilitation programs and new construction.
12:45 – 1:00 – Q&A + transition
Session 2, Track C: Planning, Policy & Housing Innovation Track
11:45-12:15 NH’s Housing Opportunity Planning Grant (HOP) Program and NH Housing Academy: Building partnerships for a multi tiered approach to the housing crisis
- Speakers: George Reagan, NH Housing; Sarah Wrightsman, NH Housing; Sue Cagle, UNH Extension; Scott Slattery, UNH Extension
- Abstract: This session will explore the development and implementation of the Housing Opportunity Planning Grant Program and NH Housing Academy program. Program activities, impacts, and lessons learned will be highlighted.
12:15-12:45 Housing Opportunity Planning Grant (HOP) Program Case Studies: Successes and Lessons Learned from local community’s efforts to implement change
- Speakers: George Reagan, NH Housing; Sarah Wrightsman, NH Housing; Sue Cagle, UNH Extension; Scott Slattery, UNH Extension; John Christ, UNH Extension
- Abstract: These case studies from communities that participated in the NH Housing Opportunities Planning Grant (HOP) program will highlight successes, challenges, and lessons learned, offering insight and strategies for communities considering similar initiatives.
12:45 – 1:00 – Q&A + transition
Panel Discussion: Housing Across the Northeast — State Priorities and Polices
Panelists:
- Zachary Adams, Center for Rural Pennsylvania
- Jessica Greathouse, West Viriginia Housing Development Fund
- Nick Taylor, Executive Director, Housing Action NH
Moderators:
- Sue Cagle, University of New Hampshire
- Scott Slattery, University of New Hampshire
Our panelists will share key housing-related priorities and issues in their states, particularly in rural communities, and the role their organization has taken or may take in addressing them. They will talk about programs and strategies they have found to be most successful; the role of partnerships and collaborations in their states; and key takeaways and lessons learned in addressing rural housing needs.
1:45 – 2:00 p.m. — Closing Remarks (Stephen Alessi)
Thank you to our planning committee!
The Northeast Housing Summit was organized by:
- Daniel Eades, West Virginia University
- Mariya Shcheglovitova, University of Vermont
- Scott Slattery, University of New Hampshire
- Sue Cagle, University of New Hampshire
- Stephen Alessi, NERCRD
- Kristen Devlin, NERCRD
Speaker Bios
Carla Adams‑Lippett
Carla Adams‑Lippett has been a dedicated member of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) since 2004. In her current role as an Extension Agent within the College of Agriculture and Food Sciences/Cooperative Extension, she fosters collaboration among university departments, campus safety partners, and community organizations.
Giovanna Benítez
Giovanna Benítez has served as the UF/IFAS Extension Family and Consumer Sciences Agent for Marion County, Florida, since 2022. As a HUD‑certified housing counselor, Ms. Benítez emphasizes practical, empowerment‑oriented strategies that enable individuals and families to make informed choices, build stability, resilience, and wealth.
Harry Crissy
Harry Crissy is a Penn State Extension Educator for Leadership and Community Vitality. His academic research concentration (two MS degrees) at Penn State University focused on economic sustainability and consumer’s willingness to pay in tourism related industries. In addition, he holds a Professional Master Certification from Villanova University in Applied Project Management and Professional Master Certification from Penn State University in Geospatial Intelligence Analytics. He has been working as a regional extension educator for the past 19 years with three land grant universities and a broad variety of industries. Harry works with communities, individuals, and government bodies to identify and implement strategies conducive to both economic growth and environmental health.
Daniel Eades
Dr. Daniel Eades is a Professor and State Specialist with West Virginia University Extension, where he focuses on rural economics and community development. In recent years, his work has increasingly centered on housing issues across rural and small-town contexts. Eades has completed numerous local and regional housing studies for counties and communities throughout West Virginia and the broader Appalachian region. Most recently, he co-authored the West Virginia Statewide Housing Needs Assessment for the West Virginia Housing Development Fund in partnership with the Virginia Center for Housing Research (VCHR).
Shanta Harrison
Dr. Shanta Harrison is the Extension Program Specialist for Housing in the Community Economic Unit of Prairie View A&M University, part of the Texas A&M University System. She is a community and economic development professional with expertise in housing education, homeownership advancement, program leadership and federal compliance. Program specialists support county Extension agents by providing professional development opportunities, subject-matter expertise, programming and educational outreach best practices.
Rachel Fawcett
Rachel Fawcett is a member of the technical team at the Pennsylvania Housing Research Center at Penn State, Rachel Fawcett manages on-demand and video-based education, organizes an annual industry-focused conference, develops and delivers virtual and in-person training programs. With a Bachelor of Architecture and master’s degree in community and economic development from Penn State and a Master of Arts in theological studies from Fuller Seminary, her experience ranges from serving as the executive director for a community land trust focused on the development and stewardship of permanently affordable housing to the director of communications & design for a large church. Fawcett maintains her credential as a LEED Green Associate. Through her involvement with university, nonprofit, and community sectors, she believes that flourishing communities matter and that everyone has the right to a decent, affordable home.
Lisa D. Iulo
Dr. Lisa D. Lulo is a professor of architecture and director of the Hamer Center for Community Design in the Penn State Stuckeman School. She is a registered architect, professional planner, and LEED-Accredited Professional who has focused her work and research on building and planning for a more sustainable future. Specifically, Iulo’s work has been recognized in research and practice related to residential green building practices and affordable housing, energy efficiency, and strategies for the implementation of renewable energy at the building and community scale.
Lisa Hamilton
Lisa Hamilton has served as a UF/IFAS Extension Family and Consumer Sciences Agent in Volusia County, Florida since 2015, and the Associate Program Leader of Housing Education since 2024. She provides financial and housing education and counseling and is passionate about helping people improve their financial well-being. Ms. Hamilton is an Accredited Financial Counselor and HUD certified housing counselor.
Kelsi G. Hobbs
Dr. Kelsi G. Hobbs is an Assistant Professor of Economics at the University of Maine. She is an Applied Microeconomist whose current research focuses on rental housing and rental housing evictions. She is broadly interested in issues that affect low- to moderate-income individuals and families. In 2021, she graduated with her PhD in Economics from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. In 2016, she graduated with her MA in Applied Economics from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Prior to graduate school, she worked for Impact America (formerly Impact Alabama) in Birmingham, Alabama. In 2013, she graduated from Davidson College with her BA in Economics and her BA in Religious Studies.
Noah Hodgetts
Noah Hodgetts is a Principal Planner with the New Hampshire Office of Planning and Development, where he provides technical assistance on planning and zoning, tracks land use legislation, and serves as the agency’s point person on housing policy. He has worked with the state since 2018 and serves on the New Hampshire Zoning Atlas Leadership Team. Hodgetts was named the 2023 Professional Planner of the Year by the Northern New England Chapter of the American Planning Association and the New Hampshire Planners Association.
Elissa Margolin
Elissa Margolin is Director of the Initiative for Housing Policy and Practice at Saint Anselm College, where she leads research, education, and engagement focused on housing development, affordability, and stability. She previously served for 15 years as Director of Housing Action NH, leading statewide efforts to advance affordable housing policy. Margolin is an attorney and also teaches housing policy in Saint Anselm College’s Master of Public Policy program.
James Mingie
Dr. James Mingie is an applied economist and Research Specialist in the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Tennessee. His work focuses primarily on natural resource economics, economic impact analysis, rural development, and public infrastructure investment. James earned his Ph.D. in Forest Resources from the University of Georgia and a M.S. in Forestry from Mississippi State University.
David Nason
Dr. David Nason is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Regional Research Institute at West Virginia University. His research focuses on how local labor markets adjust to structural economic changes, with a goal of providing policy-relevant insights to inform workforce development in rural and distressed areas. His work focuses on topics related to labor markets, industrial transitions, human capital, public policies, and regional growth.
Jamie Pottern
Jamie Pottern, Senior New England Program Manager, American Farmland Trust. Jamie works across New England to address land access barriers for farmers, protect farmland, and provide support to conservation organizations and communities. She is the co-author of AFT’s Farms Under Threat: A New England Perspective research report, which analyzes threats and opportunities for a more resilient and justice-driven agricultural system in New England.
Rick Lederer-Barnes
Rick Lederer-Barnes is Principal of Upstate GIS and a GIS specialist, cartographer, and environmental planner with more than 20 years of experience. He specializes in geospatial analysis, cartographic design, build-out analysis, and land use and environmental planning. Lederer-Barnes serves as the GIS lead for the New Hampshire Zoning Atlas, overseeing spatial data development, analysis, and mapping.
Colleen Ritter
Colleen Ritter serves as the Executive Director of the State College Land Trust. Colleen has lived in State College since 1999. She has worked in affordable housing for over 30 years. Colleen earned her BA in Economics from the University of Illinois. She has certificates in Non-Profit Management and Housing Development Finance.
Linda Shi
Dr. Linda Shi is Associate Professor at Cornell University’s Department of City and Regional Planning. She studies how urban land governance shapes vulnerability to climate impacts and how to promote climate adaptations that help repair environmental justice and ecological systems. Her current research examines how changes to land use, property rights, and disaster policy can help communities adapt in place, relocate, or migrate. She has a PhD in urban and regional planning from MIT.
Nick Taylor
Nick Taylor is Executive Director of Housing Action NH, a statewide coalition working to advance pro-housing policy. He previously served as Executive Director of the Workforce Housing Coalition of the Greater Seacoast and as Policy Director for the New Hampshire Senate.
Sreedhar Upendram
Dr. Sreedhar Upendram is an Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Tennessee. His work focuses on community and rural economic development, natural resource economics, and Extension programming that supports Tennessee communities, stakeholders, and decisionmakers. Sreedhar earned his Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics from Kansas State University.
Morgan Wasikonis
Morgan Wasikonis has been with Housing Transitions since 2014 and became the Executive Director in 2016. Under her leadership, the organization has grown while adapting to the needs and opportunities to serve individuals and families experiencing a housing crisis in Centre County. As a Penn State graduate, she has been a long-time resident of State College and has a vested interest in helping to elevate the quality of life for all in our community.
Sarah Wrightsman
Sarah Wrightsman is the Manager of Community Engagement and Education at New Hampshire Housing. Prior to joining the team at New Hampshire Housing, Wrightsman was Executive Director of the Workforce Housing Coalition of the Greater Seacoast.
Funding Agency: Supported by NERCRD core funding (USDA NIFA)
Accompanying Institution(s): University of New Hampshire, University of Vermont, West Virginia University
Start Date: March, 2026 End Date: September, 2026