Q&A With Cheryl Stulpin
Congratulations on your recent promotion to EVP of Acquisitions and Development! Tell us about this newly established group you’re leading and its goals.
Thank you, I am very excited about my new role with Dakota Partners. We have put together a highly experienced development team to implement Dakota’s strategic expansion into the states of New York, Pennsylvania and Maryland. We have our sights on additional markets as well, but those will be part of a longer term plan.
Tell us about your team and the individual contributions being made to the overall goals.
We are extremely pleased to have recently added two new Development Directors to our team, Brian Donato and Paul Marfione. Their impressive bios are highlighted below in the New Hires section. Brian, Paul and I have worked together in the past so, as a team, we have been able to hit the ground running!
What geographic areas are you targeting and are there specific criteria you look for in an ideal project?
We are currently focusing expansion efforts in New York, Pennsylvania and Maryland. Our project goals are new construction, affordable and workforce communities in suburban markets with high performing school districts, as designated by the various State agencies housing priorities. We are also interested in adaptive re-use projects in more urban areas, where we can combine local subsidies, such as historic tax credits.
You have a strong background working in the affordable housing market. What do you like best about this industry?
I am passionate about the affordable housing mission and knowing that, in some way, I have contributed to making a difference in the lives of our residents.
You joined the Dakota team earlier this year. What has been your favorite part of working here so far?
I love the people. We are a great group of highly-engaged, seasoned professionals with entrepreneurial spirit and common goals.
Share your outlook for next year. What do you anticipate will be some highlights?
As we all know, this past year has been a challenge and has proven the continual increasing need for affordable housing. I am hopeful that the change in political leadership will prioritize affordable housing and provide our industry with the tools necessary to increase production.
I am also very optimistic that the Dakota team will achieve our goals for expanding our footprint. I look forward to celebrating our team’s success.