A Fort Lewis College graduate has returned to Durango to take the helm of the La Plata County Regional Housing Authority. Last week, Jennifer Lopez was named as the executive director of the authority, which was established in 2004 to address affordable housing needs in La Plata County.

Lopez , who earned her bachelor degree in English at FLC and a masters in community and regional planning from the University of New Mexico, spent the last six years working for the City of Santa Fe and the Santa Fe Community Housing Trust implementing affordable housing programs.

She will be working part-time until October, after which time she will work full time.

“This is an exciting opportunity for me and my family; I feel very fortunate to have an opportunity to work with such committed and competent leaders on an issue that I care very deeply about,” Lopez said.

Lopez fills the vacancy left by former housing director, Forrest Neuerburg, who quit in May after nine months to return to Wyoming for a similar position.

“We are impressed by Jennifer’s credentials and experience, her demonstrated ability to work well with people and her genuine enthusiasm,” said Ellen Park, La Plata County Regional Housing Board president. “We are delighted that Jennifer has accepted the position.

– Missy Votel