Angela Taylor Reflects on the Housing Leadership Institute Experience

Angela Taylor, VCDC’s Director of Asset Management, recently graduated from Virginia Housing Alliance’s first cohort of the Housing Leadership Institute (HLI). The HLI is a 10-month intensive, targeted program designed to leverage training, coaching, and peer support for housing professionals. The program assists these professionals in growing management skills and creating a career development plan to catalyze their leadership trajectory.

Read Angela’s reflections on the program in her own words:

Participating in the inaugural cohort of the Housing Leadership Institute was an incredible opportunity—one that I am truly grateful for. It allowed me to connect with colleagues from across the housing industry, all united by a shared passion to address housing needs in our communities. 

This program pushed me to dig deep, reflect on my leadership journey, and explore new areas for growth. It challenged me to think critically about my personal mission, develop a five-year plan, and evaluate both my strengths and areas for improvement. Through this process, I learned how to better leverage these traits to become a more effective and authentic leader. 

Over the ten-month period, we were encouraged to step outside of our comfort zones and examine leadership through diverse perspectives. One of the cornerstones of our learning was the Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership: Model the Way, Inspire a Shared Vision, Challenge the Process, Enable Others to Act, and Encourage the Heart—along with the Ten Commitments that support these practices. These concepts reshaped the way I view and approach leadership. 

We were fortunate to have two exceptional facilitators, Ebony and Robert, whose insights and guidance were invaluable. Arley, our Program Manager, was the glue that kept everything running smoothly and made sure each detail was thoughtfully handled. Her support and coordination were essential to the program’s success. 

A key highlight of the program was access to personalized coaching, with five dedicated sessions that were transformative. As I often said, “You don’t realize what you need as a leader until you get it.” My coach became both an advisor and, at times, a therapist—someone I could openly share ideas and challenges with. Her guidance helped me explore creative solutions and deepen my leadership capacity. 

Another tremendous asset of this program was the cohort itself. The blend of skills, experiences, and mutual support among participants created a powerful and inspiring learning environment. Especially during our in-person sessions, the camaraderie and encouragement we shared stood out—we truly became a team rooting for one another’s success. 

Finally, the opportunity to learn from housing leaders of diverse backgrounds, age groups, and experiences added immense value. Their stories, lessons, and perspectives helped shape our own leadership visions and goals—both professionally and personally. 

This program has equipped us with lasting tools to maintain and grow our leadership potential. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the CEO, Board of Directors, and supporters of the Virginia Housing Alliance for envisioning and bringing this impactful program to life. 

To the next cohort of the Housing Leadership Institute (2025–2026), I wish you a journey of discovery, growth, and success!