Chris Simpson, a 40-year employee of the Rayne Housing Authority who has served as its director for the past 34 years, has been awarded the Louisiana Housing Council’s “Extra Mile Award.”
Simpson was awarded during the 2018 Annual Louisiana Housing Council’s Legislative Conference held recently in Baton Rouge.
Kenny Habetz, Crowley Housing Authority director, made the presentation.
“I was really surprised by the whole thing,” said Simpson of receiving the award. “I spoke to a couple people about when to attend the events and I found it kinda strange they were all asking me to make sure I was attending the banquet. That should have raised a red flag, I guess.
“Anyway, I’m very appreciative of the award and I’m sure many others could have received it. We have many helpful people in our business — that’s what we’re here for.”
Simpson was nominated for the award by Terri Touchet, office manager of the Iowa Housing Authority in Iowa.
In her nomination letter, Touchet wrote of Simpson:
“I nominated Chris Simpson for Louisiana Housing Council’s ‘Extra Mile’ Award for so many obvious reasons.
“Reasons such as years of commitment, knowledge of the industry, and willingness to help all members of Louisiana Housing Council.
“Within this organization, housing authorities in our great state are represented on the state, regional and national level with one goal in mind — to fight for affordable housing for each and every one of our tenants.
“Since entering the housing industry only three years ago, I have been in awe of Chris’ dedication to Rayne Housing Authority and the City of Rayne. Chris has never made me, or any other member of Louisiana Housing Council, feel like we were newcomers and always encourages each member to voice their opinions or ideas.
“To me, feeling welcome and needed in any organization is so very important, and it paves the way for all members to continue working towards the goal at hand.
“As if Chris’ dedication, encouragement, and willingness to share her knowledge of the industry wasn’t enough to nominate her for the ‘Extra Mile’ Award, the fact that she is such a great friend just adds to the list of amazing qualities this woman has.
“Chris, I feel, probably has never met a stranger in her life. She always has a great story to tell, whether it be about housing, traveling, or her family.
“In short, Chris Simpson was so very deserving of this award and I was honored to be the person to nominate her for it.”
As noted by the Louisiana Council, the “Extra Mile” Award honors the late Mike Hanratty, executive director of the Fort Worth Housing Authority, whose commitment and contributions to his community, his profession and to NAHRO at the state chapter, regional and national level set the highest standards of excellence.
The award is presented to nominated individuals who step beyond the rest and whose efforts/contribution (ongoing and cumulative) to their State chapter, the Regional Council, NAHRO, or community have improved or benefited fellow members/ the public.
