**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

Navajo Housing Authority Announces Strategic Roadmap to Empower Employees, Improve Services

Ojo Amarillo, NM – June 18, 2024 – The Navajo Housing Authority (NHA) is taking significant strides 
to revitalize its operations and enhance employee and client engagement through a comprehensive 
strategic plan for 2024- 2028. The new Chief Executive Officer, Heather Duncan-Etsitty, and 
long-standing NHA employees are committed to simplifying and automating internal processes, 
improving customer service, and fostering a culture of empowerment and accountability.
This marks a pivotal shift in NHA's approach, as the organization actively seeks to include 
employees in reaching its yearly Indian Housing Plan (IHP) objectives and shaping its future 
direction.

The leadership team is dedicated to being more visible and engaged with its workforce and has been 
visiting each of the 15 field offices across the Navajo Nation. During last Friday’s 
leadership-employee workshop at the Ojo Amarillo field office, employees thoughtfully considered their 
roles in enhancing NHA's internal functions and contributing to the mission of providing a stable 
foundation for families to live, grow, and walk in beauty.
NHA's leadership is committed to addressing past issues and working closer with employees and 
gathering feedback to foster a healthier work environment. "Listening to other members, everything 
in that feedback is now what we're putting into the internal communications plan," shared 
Duncan-Etsitty.

Historically, NHA has faced challenges with inconsistent leadership, resulting in a lack of clear 
vision and direction. Employees have often felt disconnected and undervalued. This renewed focus on 
engagement and communication is a cornerstone of the new strategic plan.
"Inconsistent leadership has led to poor morale among employees,” said Bruce Tyler, Maintenance 
Supervisor. “Heather’s visit to our office and her commitment to valuing and appreciating our team is 
a positive step forward. When employees feel valued, they are more motivated and productive.”

At the heart of the strategic plan is a call for employees to embrace accountability and continuous 
improvement. The plan outlines specific steps for employees to take, including regular performance 
reviews and proactive daily actions toward their goals.

"We’ve been heavily involved in enhancing our HR structure, implementing new organizational charts, 
updating job descriptions, evaluating salaries, and managing recruitment amidst benefit claims and 
payments,” said Rita Hubbell, Director of Human Resources. “It's been a challenging but necessary 
process.”
The NHA branch chiefs, along with other experienced leaders, bring a deep understanding of the 
organization's challenges and strengths. "And we understand that as new employees, even if we have 
been here long, we're all bringing our experiences to better the NHA," said Chief Administrative 
Officer, Terrilynn Cook.

NHA's transformation is set to bring substantial benefits not only to the organization but also to 
the broader Navajo Nation. Focusing on establishing better communication and empowering employees 
will ensure better service and support for the communities NHA serves.
"Our office has seen many changes in leadership, but Heather's focus on empowering employees and 
fostering a supportive culture is exactly what we need,” said Kristina Bitsue, Property Manager at 
the Ojo Amarillo office and longstanding NHA employee. “I believe this will motivate us to better 
serve our customers and improve as a team.”

“Committed to Excellence”
"Hooghandee ei Hahoozhoodgo Iina Sila doo Anooseel"
“Providing a Stable Foundation for Families to Live, Grow and. Walk in Beauty."