About Laurie

Laurie Benner is a seasoned housing and nonprofit professional with experience in financial management, strategic planning, communications, organizational development, land conservation, grant management, real estate development, affordable housing, community outreach, program development, financial literacy, fair housing, diversity issues, foundation management, and consumer

education. Laurie works for a national civil rights nonprofit, focusing on overcoming racial disparities in housing and financial systems. Before this role, Laurie served as the Director of Housing Programs for Maryland REALTORS®, the largest professional trade association in the state. The department focused on programs serving first-time and moderate-income homebuyers, fair housing, education, industry outreach, communications, and public policy work.

Laurie holds a Bachelor’s in Legal Studies, a Master’s in Nonprofit and Association Management, and an MBA. She is a trained mediator and experienced facilitator. Laurie also serves on several nonprofit

organizations’ boards and committees. She lives near Baltimore, Maryland.