The Concord Family Enrichment Association (CFEA) Board of Directors is pleased to announce Patrick C. Graham, Ph.D., as the organization’s first Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective June 1, 2021. Dr. Graham is an accomplished equity leader with more than twenty years of executive-level experience in both the social and public sectors.
“The Board of Directors is thrilled that Dr. Graham accepted our offer to lead the CFEA,” said JC McKenzie, Concord City Council Member and Chairman of the Board. “During our interviews it was apparent that Dr. Graham deeply understands that the housing crisis is not just about building units. The problem is complex and will require multiple solutions and partners if we are to make a significant impact. We are confident we have the leader that can quickly build and grow CFEA to fulfill our mission.”
As one of the fastest growing cities in the region, Concord is experiencing a shortage of affordable, workforce housing. A 2019 survey found the city needs an additional 3,000 units over the next ten years to properly meet the demand. As the CFEA’s first CEO, Dr. Graham will be responsible for developing the nonprofit’s strategic plan, establishing goals, and building relationships to grow the organization and expand affordable housing options across the city.
"Housing is a gateway to wealth and the vitality of our families,” said Dr. Graham. “It impacts education, talent development, and the economic strength of our community. We all deserve opportunities to thrive. This is why I am proud to serve as the Concord Family Enrichment Association's first chief executive officer."
Dr. Graham comes to CFEA from Richmond, VA, where he was the city’s Senior Policy Advisor and Executive Advisor for ReWork Richmond. In this capacity, he led the creation of Metro Richmond’s first regional eviction prevention model and successfully increased funding for services from $1.2 million to $18.5 million. Dr. Graham is best known for creating equity and inclusion initiatives for workforce development, entrepreneurship, and housing. While serving as a social sector leader in Charlotte, NC, he led the development of regional and national models such as the Careers4All initiative, At-Opportunity Generation platform, and Bank of the Urban League of Central Carolinas, driving investment in workforce development, youth services, small business, and homeownership. Dr. Graham is the author of several academic essays and policy agendas. He has received numerous accolades for his work, including the Distinguished Leader and Advocate for Change Award from the National Made Man Foundation.
Dr. Graham is a graduate of Johnson C. Smith University (B.S. Marketing), University of Wisconsin-Madison (M.A. African American Studies), and Stony Brook University (Ph.D. American History). He is a proud father and outdoor enthusiast.
About Concord Family Enrichment Association
The Concord Family Enrichment Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding affordable housing options and providing enrichment opportunities that enable community members to enhance their quality of life. The organization develops, operates, and maintains a variety of affordable housing types, and partners with and encourages developers to provide affordable housing options in all regions of the city.
The Concord City Council voted to create the CFEA in April 2019. The city sets aside one cent of the tax rate for affordable housing.