Habitat for Humanity of Greater Providence and East Bay is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Patricia Jackson as the organization’s new Executive Director. Driven by her passion for advocacy and social justice, Dr. Jackson brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role.
Dr. Jackson has been actively involved in the field of housing for approximately 8 years, starting with her humble beginnings as site support in a homeless shelter in Brockton, Massachusetts. Her commitment and hard work led her to serve as the Interim Executive Director of the Brockton Redevelopment Authority, overseeing various critical programs. These programs included HUD Lead Hazard Control Program, HUD Healthy Homes, HUD CDBG – Public Services, Facilities, and Façade Improvement Program, as well as the HUD HOME Program encompassing residential and commercial development projects.
“Advocacy and social justice have always been the driving forces behind my work in the field of housing. I am honored to join Habitat for Humanity of Greater Providence and East Bay, an organization that shares my commitment to creating affordable and adequate housing for underserved communities,” said Dr. Patricia Jackson, newly appointed Executive Director. “I am excited to work alongside the dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners to make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and families in need.”
Originally from Kansas City, Kansas, Dr. Jackson’s educational journey has been impressive. She graduated 8th in her class from Wyandotte High School in 2002 and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Kansas. Later, she pursued a Masters in Public Administration with a specialty in Urban Design from Park University. In 2016, she moved to the East Coast to obtain a Masters in Legal Studies, specializing in Business Studies, from Northeastern University. Five years later, Dr. Jackson achieved her Doctorate in Law and Policy from Northeastern University, with her dissertation focusing on the Disinvestment and Lack of Reinvestment in Disenfranchised Communities.
“Dr. Patricia Jackson brings a unique blend of expertise, passion, and leadership to our organization. Her track record in the housing field, coupled with her dedication to social justice, makes her an exceptional choice for the role of Executive Director,” said Amanda Heinsen-Morales, President of the Board of Directors at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Providence and East Bay. “We are confident that under Dr. Jackson’s guidance, our organization will continue to thrive and positively impact the lives of individuals and families in our community.”
Prior to joining Habitat for Humanity of Greater Providence and East Bay, Dr. Jackson served as the Interim and Deputy Executive Director of the Brockton Redevelopment Authority. In this role, she played a pivotal role in overseeing programs that significantly impacted the city of Brockton and its residents. Her dedication to advancing the daily lives of the city’s 106,000 residents, particularly those seeking assistance, has been instrumental in her career.
Dr. Jackson is actively involved in several organizations and committees. She currently serves as the Chair of the Political Action Committee for the Brockton Area Branch NAACP and contributes to the Education, Housing, and Legal Redress Committees. Additionally, Dr. Jackson serves as the Deputy Executive Director of Black Lives Matter Rhode Island and has contributed to the Op-ed piece titled “Greenlining Heals Historic Injustice of Redlining,” published by the Washington Post.
“I am thrilled to be joining Habitat for Humanity of Greater Providence and East Bay at this critical time,” Dr. Jackson added. “Together, we will continue to fight for the advancement of equality and equity in housing, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to build a better future for themselves and their communities.”
As the new Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Providence and East Bay, Dr. Patricia Jackson will continue her relentless pursuit of affordable and adequate housing for underserved communities. Her unwavering commitment to equality and equity will undoubtedly drive the organization’s mission to create a world where everyone has a decent place to live.
For more information about how to get involved with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Providence, visit habitatpvd.org/volunteer/individual-volunteering.
