Downers Grove woman to lead DuPage Housing Authority Board

Sherrin Ingram joined the DuPage Housing Authority Board in 2011 after the agency it oversees was rocked by a financial scandal.

More than six years later, Ingram has become chairwoman of the board. And she says the Wheaton-based housing authority that once mismanaged more than $10 million in federal funding has restored its reputation.

"I am so thrilled with where we are today given where we were when I started," the Downers Grove resident said.

Board members unanimously elected Ingram as chairwoman last week. She is the first black woman to hold that position.

Ingram said she's thrilled fellow board members picked her to replace former Chairman Thomas Good, who retired this month.

She said her goal is to ensure the authority continues to improve.

Problems at the housing authority began in 2011 when it was revealed the U.S. Office of Inspector General released two audits critical of the agency. A third audit released that year concluded the agency improperly spent more than $5.8 million in federal money and failed to adequately document another $4.7 million.

Housing authority officials worked with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to clear up the administrative issues that caused the audit findings.

"We worked out agreements with the governments and we're honoring those agreements," Ingram said.

The board also implemented a series of reforms at the agency, including a reorganization.

"The DHA is seen as a high-performing agency once again," Ingram said. "It's been a roller-coaster ride. But I'm thrilled about where we are and where we're going."

Ingram is CEO of the International Center for Strategic Planning in Hinsdale.

County board Chairman Dan Cronin said he first appointed Ingram to the housing board because she has a wealth of experience.

"She's smart," he said. "She's tough. She sees the big picture. She understands the obligation. I have complete faith, trust and confidence in her leadership abilities."

Ingram said she believes in the authority's mission to provide affordable housing in DuPage.

"It does such good work," she said. "I'm delighted to be a part of it."