Рита Грэйди уходит с поста исполнительного директора Polk CDC, её преемницей стала Кимберли Лилл

Polk Community Development Corporation (Polk CDC) announced the retirement of Executive Director Rita Grady, whose vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment helped shape the organization since its founding in 1989. Over nearly four decades, Grady guided Polk CDC from a community vision into one of Oregon’s most respected community development organizations, creating opportunities through high-quality affordable housing, innovative self-help programs, and partnerships that have improved the lives of countless Polk County residents. As one of Polk CDC’s founding leaders, Grady dedicated her career to ensuring that low- and moderate-income residents have access to opportunities that strengthen families, build financial stability, and enrich communities. Under her leadership, Polk CDC earned a reputation for developing thoughtfully designed affordable housing that serves veterans, families, seniors, and others facing housing challenges while enhancing the communities in which they are built. Her commitment to quality, innovation, and collaboration has resulted in numerous award-winning developments and programs, most recently Carson Commons in Dallas, recipient of a 2026 Daily Journal of Commerce Top Projects Award. Just as importantly, Rita built an organization known for its exceptional staff, trusted partnerships, sound stewardship, and unwavering commitment to serving Polk County with excellence and integrity. “Rita has always led with humility, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every person and every community,” said Amy Houghtaling, President of the Polk CDC Board of Directors. “Her leadership has shaped not only Polk CDC, but the communities we serve. From the organization’s earliest days, she has led with vision, determination, and a steadfast commitment to creating opportunities for others. Her impact can be seen in the homes, neighborhoods, partnerships, and lives that have been strengthened through her work. On behalf of the Board of Directors, staff, and our many community partners, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for her decades of service and wish her every happiness in retirement.” To ensure a seamless transition, the Polk CDC Board of Directors appointed Kimberly Lyell as executive director, effective July 1. Lyell has served Polk CDC for 18 years, most recently as deputy director, and has played an integral role in the organization’s programs, operations, and community partnerships. Having worked alongside Grady throughout her tenure, Lyell brings deep institutional knowledge, trusted relationships throughout the region, and a shared commitment to Polk CDC’s mission. “The Board has complete confidence in Kimberly’s leadership,” Houghtaling said. “Her experience, dedication, and understanding of Polk CDC’s work make her exceptionally well prepared to lead the organization during this transition while continuing the strong tradition of service and excellence that Rita helped establish.” Lyell said she’s been privileged to work alongside Grady and learn from her extraordinary leadership. “Polk CDC has an exceptional team, outstanding community partners, and a mission that remains as important today as it was when the organization was founded,” Lyell said. “I am honored to serve as Executive Director and look forward to working with our staff, Board, and partners to build on the remarkable foundation Rita created while continuing to expand opportunities for the people and communities of Polk County.” Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated. Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything. Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person. Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts. Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.