Lee Anne Adams has more than 20 years of experience working with affordable housing and community development organizations, both in the U.S. and Latin America. She's spent more than half of her career at NeighborWorks® America and in July, became the national nonprofit's executive vice president and chief operating officer. We sat down with her to talk about the insights she's gained from her new role.

You’ve been Chief Operating Officer at NeighborWorks® America for about nine months. What have you learned about NeighborWorks and yourself? 

Susan M. Ifill, NeighborWorks® America’s executive vice president and chief operating officer for the last five years, retires this month, leaving behind a legacy of tackling affordable housing and community development challenges. Her career has included banking – she was at both Carver Federal Savings Bank and Bank of America. It has included nonprofit leadership – she served as CEO of Neighborhood Housing Services in New York. And it has included community – her volunteer work has included serving on the boards of Cambridge College and Purple Heart Homes.