This week, we’re introducing you to the Fair Housing Center’s Senior Research Associate, Michael Lepley. Check out our interview with Michael as you continue to get to know the faces of fair housing!
What brought you to the Fair Housing Center?
I just moved to Cleveland from Pittsburgh with my wife and was still pretty fresh out of grad school. I have a background in policy analysis and mapping, so I was happy to find a position that asked for similar things to what I was working on in school and very excited that it was at a civil rights organization.
How long have you worked here?
Approaching 5 years.
Can you briefly describe your role at the Fair Housing Center?
I’m on the research team, so we use testing as a research tool. I do data analysis and mapping. I work with a lot of local governments and other housing organizations, so we make agency connections and do policy advocacy at different levels using our research.
What is your favorite part of your job?
The Fair Housing Center has some special qualities that allow us to do work no one else can do. We’re very niche in the local housing and community development world, which gives us a unique voice. My favorite thing is when we get to lead the conversation on a topic.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to go hiking and camping. I have a three-year old daughter, and it’s fun to take her into the outdoors and nature. I like old cameras. I have a couple of bikes I don’t ride as much as I’d like to.
If you could choose one fair housing issue that you wish people knew more about, what would it be?
I wish more people thought about how rental subsidies are used to strip people of their rights.
Stay tuned for more spotlights by following the hashtag #FacesOfFairHousing on Instagram and be sure to check back for weekly content on our blog