Peggy Bailey To Headline at New Jersey’s Premier Housing and Economic Development Conference This September
- Posted on: 08/13/2025
Join Leading Voices Driving Housing Opportunity, Economic Growth, and Community Investment Across the Garden State
TRENTON, NJ – The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA), New Jersey Redevelopment Authority (NJRA), and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) are excited to announce the 2025 Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic Development, taking place on September 16-17, 2025, at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City. This year’s event will feature keynote speaker Peggy Bailey, Executive Vice President (EVP) for Policy and Program Development and Vice President (VP) for Housing and Income Security at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. As a nationally respected leader and advocate, Bailey will bring powerful insights into the future of housing, equity, and essential federal and state programs.
In her role as EVP, she guides the Center’s work to strengthen, reform, and better resource federal and state programs oriented to helping all people meet basic needs like housing, health, and nutrition. As VP for Housing and Income Security, Bailey oversees the Center’s work to protect and expand access to affordable housing and income assistance through programs like Housing Choice Vouchers, Public Housing, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and Child Support.
Throughout her career, she has helped build connections between housing, health, nutrition, child welfare, and other systems of care. Bailey has worked to advance the delivery of government services and supports that center people and systems that make resources easier to access and flexible enough to meet people’s needs. Her work to improve programs also includes recognizing the ways in which racism and discrimination have created the inequities that persist today and must be addressed to achieve a country where all people thrive.
This premier two-day event brings together housing professionals, developers, community leaders, government officials, and advocates to explore bold ideas and actionable strategies for building a stronger, more equitable New Jersey.
“This conference is where vision meets action,” said DCA Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez. “We invite all stakeholders to join us as we explore innovative ways to strengthen our communities and ensure opportunity for all New Jerseyans. Whether you're a housing developer, municipal official, economic strategist, nonprofit leader, or resident passionate about community change, this conference is for you.”
The conference will feature dynamic workshops, insightful panel discussions, and engaging keynote presentations designed to inspire collaboration and action.
“The GHC is the state’s premier convening of housing and economic development professionals,” said NJHMFA Executive Director Melanie R. Walter. “New Jersey continues to lead the way in national housing policy, prioritizing single and multifamily development while promoting innovative economic growth through strategic program and financing initiatives. This conference offers a unique opportunity to connect with peers, weigh in on pressing policy matters, and gain insights from industry leaders.”
Attendees Will Gain Access To:
- Plenary session with industry experts on how equitable development, targeted investments, and inclusive programs are transforming today’s economy.
- Workshops and panels on housing production and finance, economic development, homelessness, equity and inclusion in housing development, housing as an engine for economic development, New Jersey Main Streets, housing affordability controls, women in business, and more.
- Keynote speakers offering bold insights into the future of housing policy, economic mobility, and public-private partnerships.
- Atlantic City guided bus tour that takes you through the heart of a city undergoing dynamic transformation.
- Hall of Fame Award & Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards Brunch recognizing pioneers in the housing and economic development fields and honoring exemplary projects, organizations, and individuals throughout New Jersey.
- Networking opportunities with leaders from across sectors, including government, nonprofit, real estate, finance, and advocacy.
“Communities are the heart of everything we do at NJRA. The Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic development allows for the coming together of community and government. This conference provides an opportunity to amplify the voices of local leaders, nonprofit organizations, and changemakers who are driving real impact on the ground. At this conference we can have thought provoking discussion that ensures redevelopment efforts and policies reflect the needs, hopes, and aspirations of the people who call these neighborhoods home,” said NJRA President and Chief Executive Officer Leslie A. Anderson.
“Governor Phil Murphy has redefined economic development in New Jersey in an impactful way that prioritizes equitable community revitalization and upholds quality of life for all residents,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “This conference presents an engaging forum through which local leaders can learn about sustainable ways to strengthen neighborhoods and spur economic activity.”
More information regarding Peggy Bailey can be found here.
To register for the conference and for additional information, please visit njhousingconference.com. Early registration is encouraged as space is limited. Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are also available through August 20. Additional requests can be sent to njhousingconference@njhmfa.gov.
About the Conference
The Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development is a premier event that unites leaders from various sectors to address the most pressing housing and economic development issues. Hosted by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, New Jersey Housing & Mortgage Finance Agency, New Jersey Economic Development Authority, and New Jersey Redevelopment Authority, this conference is a cornerstone for fostering dialogue, sharing innovative ideas, and promoting sustainable development practices.
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