Last week, the affordable housing community lost a luminary. Gordon Cavanaugh was an inspiring leader and a fierce advocate, committed to serving the poorest of the poor. Throughout his long career in affordable housing, he served as Philadelphia’s housing director, head of the Farmers Home Administration, chairman of Global Communities (formerly CHFInternational) and a Partner at the leading affordable housing law firm Reno & Cavanaugh. Here at the Housing Assistance Council, we will also remember him as our first Executive Director.

Gordon came to HAC in 1971, quickly assembling a diverse and experienced staff of housing experts and advocates. He created our Southwest and Southeast regional offices, marshalled federal investment in rural housing, and laid the foundation for programs that continue to build homes and community in rural America today.

HAC stands on the shoulders of giants —Gordon’s commitment to serving the poorest of the poor still lies at the heart of our work. Every loan we close, every wall we raise, and every family we help house is a part of his legacy.

The entire HAC family sends our sincere condolences to Joan—Gordon’s wife of 61 years—and their children and grandchildren.