HUD Strengthens Leadership Team With Key Regional Appointments

In a move aimed at reinforcing regional leadership and deepening its community impact, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has named two seasoned professionals to key roles within its leadership structure.

Joseph J. DeFelice has been tapped to serve as both Assistant Deputy Secretary for the Office of Field Policy and Management and as Regional Administrator for HUD’s Mid-Atlantic Region (Region III). Meanwhile, Ashlea Quinonez will take the reins as the new Regional Administrator for the Southwest Region (Region VI).

A Return to Serve: DeFelice Rejoins HUD

No stranger to HUD, Joseph DeFelice previously held the role of Regional Administrator under President Trump’s first term. Between his public service stints, DeFelice brought his policy knowledge into the private sector, working as Senior In-House Counsel at a commercial development firm. His experience has reaffirmed his belief in the transformative power of public-private partnerships to address housing challenges and uplift communities.

HUD Secretary Scott Turner welcomed him back enthusiastically:

“Joe brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of regional housing issues. His leadership will be crucial as we work toward expanding affordable housing and creating sustainable communities across the country.”

In his new dual role, DeFelice will lead HUD operations in Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. He will also provide national oversight and direction for HUD field offices, supporting strategic goals like community revitalization, self-sufficiency, and pathways to homeownership.

“I’m honored to return to HUD,” DeFelice stated. “This isn’t just about continuing where we left off it’s about pushing forward with renewed energy to empower underserved communities and create lasting economic mobility.”

Southwest Leadership: Quinonez Brings Legacy of Advocacy

Appointed to oversee Region VI covering Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas Ashlea Quinonez brings two decades of public and private sector experience. A respected leader, Quinonez previously held senior policy and advisory roles under prominent Texas lawmakers, including Senator Phil Gramm and Congressman Sam Johnson. Her work spans across healthcare, housing, and community development.

Honored in 2019 with the National ATHENA Leadership Award, Quinonez has also contributed extensively through board service for nonprofit and business organizations.

“It’s an incredible privilege to return to public service in a region that I care so deeply about,” said Quinonez. “I look forward to working with communities large and small urban, rural, and tribal to open doors to housing and economic opportunity.”

Secretary Turner echoed that sentiment:

“Ashlea’s deep Texas roots and her policy expertise make her uniquely suited to lead Region VI. I’m thrilled to welcome her to the team as we strengthen our efforts to serve more Americans.”

Reinforcing HUD’s Vision

These appointments arrive at a pivotal moment for HUD as the Department looks to accelerate its mission of expanding affordable housing, fostering economic independence, and ensuring equal access to the American Dream.

Both DeFelice and Quinonez are expected to play a critical role in shaping policy on the ground, bridging federal programs with local needs, and supporting Secretary Turner’s vision of a “Golden Age of American Homeownership.” For direct financing consultations or mortgage options for you visit 👉 Nadlan Capital Group.