About Us
About
The Housing Authority of Cook County is the second largest public housing authority in Illinois. Established in 1946, the Housing Authority of Cook County is a municipal corporation whose jurisdiction spans 108 communities. We believe that when residents have access to affordable housing, economic opportunity and a suitable living environment free from discrimination, people thrive.
Danita W. Childers
Executive Director
Danita Childers, the Executive Director of the Housing Authority of Cook County (HACC), leverages more than 20 years of expertise in housing management, community development, and financial strategy to oversee the second largest housing authority in Illinois. As visionary leader, she drives transformative initiatives that enhance fiscal responsibility, transparency, and equitable housing access. Her leadership strengthens communities through innovative solutions, strategic funding, and operational excellence. Previously, Danita held executive roles at the Chicago Housing Authority and the City of Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development, overseeing multi-million-dollar projects that spurred economic growth and revitalized underserved areas. Danita is a licensed Illinois Real Estate Broker with a deep understanding of property and property management. She holds an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan.
Leadership
Kathleen Grady-Peralta
Chief Financial Officer/Chief Administrative Officer
Cherie Strong
Chief Legal Officer
Darrick Shafer
Chief Property Officer
Scott Livingston
Deputy Chief Information Officer
Roderick Abernathy
Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer
Raquel Burnette
Director, Employee and Labor Relations
Sheryl Seiling
Director of Rent Assistance
Jackie Hodges
Director of Operations
Byron Williams
Director of Strategy and Planning
Deborah O’Donnell
Director of Procurement
Broderick Banks
Director of Facilities Management
Maria Reyes Collins
Director Occupancy and Compliance
Marquita Johnson
Regional Manager North
Chalone Liddell
Regional Manager South