NASLEF Appoints New Executive Director: Jennifer Calery

The National Association of State and Local Equity Funds (NASLEF) has appointed Jennifer Calery as Executive Director. Bringing more than 20 years of experience in affordable housing and community development, Jen will work alongside NASLEF’s Board of Directors and member organizations to strengthen collaboration, elevate the collective voice of the network, and advance the association’s mission.   

“Jen distinguished herself through her collaborative leadership style, strategic mindset, and ability to turn ideas into action,” said Catherine Cawthon, President of Ohio Capital Corporation for Housing and President of the NASLEF Board of Directors. “She understands that our greatest strength lies in our members and the relationships that connect us. Jen has the vision and experience to build on our momentum, strengthen our member network, and position NASLEF for continued success. We are thrilled to welcome her as Executive Director.”

Founded in 1994, NASLEF advances affordable housing and community development through advocacy, collaboration, education, and professional excellence. Together, its members have raised billions of dollars in equity capital to finance affordable housing developments that create opportunity and strengthen communities nationwide.

“Jen is one of those leaders who makes every organization she’s part of stronger,” said Mark McDaniel, Cinnaire President and CEO. “She builds trust, generates momentum, and has a remarkable ability to bring people together around a shared mission. Those qualities, combined with her deep commitment to strengthening communities, make her the right leader for NASLEF at the right time. We are incredibly proud to support Jen in this role.”

For more than two decades, Jen has played a pivotal role in Cinnaire’s growth, strengthening the organization’s voice, advancing its advocacy efforts, and building strategic partnerships. She brings deep institutional knowledge, strategic insight, and longstanding relationships throughout the affordable housing community.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jen is widely recognized for her commitment to community leadership and youth development. She was named Alpena’s 2025 Citizen of the Year and received the 2025 Michigan Boys and Girls Clubs Board Member of the Year Award. She currently serves as Board President of the Boys & Girls Club of Alpena and as a board member and past Chair of the Michigan Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs.

“I am honored to serve as Executive Director of NASLEF and appreciate the trust the board has placed in me,” said Jen. “For more than 30 years, NASLEF has helped mission-driven equity funds achieve more together than we could alone. I look forward to partnering with our members to deepen collaboration, elevate our collective voice, and build on our strong foundation as we shape NASLEF’s next chapter.”