Naomi Scipio’s journey to the Housing Assistance Council’s (HAC) board is a testament to resilience, service, and an unwavering commitment to rural communities. Born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, Naomi’s roots trace back to her upbringing as a “cradle Catholic,” with her parents being the first couple married in their local church. These early experiences of community and faith shaped her path, instilling in her a deep sense of duty and connection to those around her.

Her journey took an unexpected turn when she moved to St. Croix, where she lived for eight years, working as a teacher, wife and mother. It was during this time that she faced the tragic loss of her husband. Naomi’s resilience through this personal tragedy exemplified her strength and determination, pushing her to continue building a life of purpose despite the hardships she encountered.

After returning home to South Carolina with her baby, Naomi sought a career that would allow her the flexibility to care for her family while still pursuing her professional ambitions. Real estate became the perfect fit, offering her the freedom to be present for her child’s needs while developing a passion for sales. Her career thrived, and she became an active member of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), a connection that would eventually lead her to HAC through her acquaintance, Lauriette West-Hoff.

Naomi’s involvement with HAC was a natural extension of her dedication to rural communities. As a housing counselor, she brought a wealth of experience and insight into the unique challenges faced by rural South Carolinians. Her leadership on the board helped HAC expand its reach and impact, particularly in addressing the housing needs of underserved areas. Naomi has also expressed her desire to see more work and development in the Delta and Colonias regions of the rural South, where communities continue to face significant housing and economic challenges.

Reflecting on HAC’s growth over the years, Naomi praised its conferences for bringing together a wide group of advocates, professionals, and community leaders. She believed these gatherings fostered important dialogues about housing, offering solutions and sharing knowledge that could be applied in various rural settings. “HAC’s conferences were always a source of inspiration,” Naomi shared. “They remind us of the collective power we have when we come together to address housing challenges in rural America.”

Looking to the future, Naomi envisions HAC continuing to be a driving force for rural housing policy and development. She hopes the organization will expand its reach, particularly in underserved regions like the Delta and Colonias, and continue to provide vital support for housing projects, policy advocacy, and community engagement. “HAC’s role is critical,” Naomi emphasized. “I hope we can keep building on this legacy, supporting more rural communities and helping them thrive.”

As she prepares to retire from the board, Naomi’s legacy of advocacy and service will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the Housing Assistance Council. Her journey—from a teacher in St. Croix to a board member helping shape rural housing policies—illustrates the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many. While she steps down, her influence and dedication to the cause will continue to resonate through the work she helped foster at HAC.

“Naomi’s dedication to HAC and to the rural communities we serve has been extraordinary. Her deep understanding of the unique challenges facing rural America, brought invaluable perspective to our board,” said HAC CEO David Lipsetz. “Naomi has always been an advocate for those who are often overlooked, and her unwavering passion for ensuring access to housing for all will continue to inspire us. We are incredibly grateful for her years of service and leadership.”