Dear Housers Colleagues,
After decades of leading Texas Housers (Texas Low Income Housing Information Service), I am announcing my retirement. Since 1978, when I first became a Houser, I have been deeply engaged in housing projects, programs, and campaigns—all aimed at ensuring that Texans who cannot afford market-rate housing have a place to call home.
From helping communities in Austin’s Clarksville, Guadalupe, Blackland, and Blackshear neighborhoods resist the first waves of gentrification, to supporting self-help housing efforts in border colonias, to accelerating hurricane recovery, and securing support for affordable housing policy and bonds in Austin—I have had the great privilege of working alongside community leaders who do more than build houses; they build home and community.
I extend my thanks and admiration to the many of you who took part in the work we have accomplished together. I especially value the years of collaboration with my longtime co-director, John Henneberger, who served alongside me until 2022 and the incredible, dedicated board of directors who guide Texas Housers to always be a principled force for justice. The organization is fiscally strong and is staffed by an inspiring, collegial, smart and dedicated staff of young Housers.
As I step away in the next few months, I know that the Texas Housers board will find a new director—perhaps one of you—to continue this critical advocacy. The housing challenges we face today are among the greatest I have seen in my 47 years as a Houser. Yet, I also know that among you are some of the most dedicated, values-driven, and relentless champions for decent, affordable housing in communities of choice.
Thank you for the work you do and for the many years of collaboration and camaraderie. I look forward to seeing what the next chapter holds for Texas Housers and for all of you.
With gratitude,
Karen Paup
