Leigh Howard, President of Diana T. Myers & Associates, Inc. (DMA), has extensive experience in the fields of housing and social services. Leigh has an undergraduate degree from Wesleyan College and advance degrees from Bryn Mawr College, which include a Masters Degree in Social Work (Policy Practice and Advocacy concentration) and a Masters Degree in Law and Social Policy.
Since joining DMA in 2006, Leigh’s work has centered around the housing needs of special populations, including: families, youth, and adults experiencing homelessness; individuals with justice involvement; the aging population; and individuals with disabilities.
During this time, Leigh has focused on using research and data to further the dialogue and advance solutions in meeting the housing needs of vulnerable populations. This includes designing data collection systems, data analysis, in-depth research, and policy analysis. This information has been used to inform policy recommendations, funding decisions, design training and provide technical assistance to reduce homelessness and expand affordable community-based housing options.
Leigh works with several Continuums of Care (CoCs) to develop and strengthen efforts to reduce and end homelessness. Leigh provides ongoing leadership and guidance to the Eastern PA CoC and Western PA CoC Governing Boards to develop and improve the effectiveness of the homeless response system.
Leigh took over as President of DMA on September 1, 2013. Under Leigh’s leadership, DMA has expanded CoC consulting services to several communities. This currently includes the following CoCs: Eastern PA CoC; Western PA CoC; Delaware County, PA; York County, PA; Fairfield County, CT; City of Omaha, NE and Council Bluffs, Iowa; City of Orlando, FL along with the surrounding counties of Orange, Osceola and Seminole; Prince William, VA; Indianapolis, IN; and the State of Delaware.
Prior to joining DMA, Leigh worked in Philadelphia as a Social Worker, Long-Term Care Ombudsman, Researcher and Community Organizer. In Austin, TX, Leigh worked at the Housing Authority of the City of Austin as the Community Revitalization Coordinator. These experiences have furthered Leigh’s commitment to advocating for resources and policies that expand housing opportunities to the most vulnerable populations.
