Braintree, MA Melissa Fish-Crane, principal and COO of the Peabody Companies, was honored by the National Affordable Housing Management Association (NAHMA) Educational Foundation with their 2019 Inspiration Award. Fish-Crane received the award during the foundation’s annual Inspire Gala, held at the Newseum in Washington, D.C., on October 28th. The award recognizes individuals or organizations for their longtime commitment to the advancement of educational opportunities for those working within the affordable housing industry and the residents they serve. In selecting an Inspiration Award winner, the foundation board considers the nominee’s accomplishments in promoting education including training and recognition programs for employees, active participation in organizations promoting scholarship and furthering education, development of regional or national awareness campaigns or programs, and promotion or development of industry certification and training programs.
“As the leader of an organization that strives each day to make a positive difference in the lives of those who call our managed communities home, I feel passionate about finding ways to create stable, sustainable, and vibrant communities. Providing educational scholarships to the residents of those communities is a means to further this effort. I am humbled to have been given the opportunity to lead the NAHMA Educational Foundation even closer in its pursuit of the advancement of educational opportunities for the residents of affordable communities nationwide. Words cannot describe how honored I am to have been chosen as this year’s recipient of the Inspiration Award,” said Fish-Crane.
Fish-Crane served on the NAHMA Educational Foundation board of directors from 2014 to 2018, including serving as chair from 2015 to the close of her tenure. Under her leadership, the foundation saw its fundraising efforts double, which allowed the nonprofit to award a record 130 scholarships in 2017. She successfully guided the volunteer board in its fundraising, event planning, and marketing efforts.
“Melissa has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the housing industry and has worked diligently to support and advance educational opportunities to those living in affordable housing,” said Alice Fletcher, NAHMA Educational Foundation chair. "Under her leadership, she has championed those around her to action without taking credit for the successes. Her passion for the industry and for helping others is evident in every interaction one has with her. She sparks attention with her proven personal values of community service and giving back. Melissa has exemplified true stewardship through her donation of time and resources, and her commitment to giving back to the affordable housing industry has inspired many.”
The NAHMA Educational Foundation is organized and operated exclusively as a Section 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Founded in October 1994, the NAHMA Educational Foundation works to assist residents of federally subsidized housing as they strive to enhance their lives, job opportunities and children’s futures. Its mission is also to enhance the livability and standing of communities managed by NAHMA member companies nationwide.
