Deidre DeJear starts new role [Video]

DES MOINES, Iowa — Deidre DeJear is in the middle of her first week as CEO of Iowa’s largest affordable housing community. The Oakridge Neighborhood Association started as a housing organization 50 years ago, but now it offers much more than that.

Close to 800 residents live in the Oakridge Neighborhood where more than 15 different languages are spoken.

DeJear’s first week has been all about conversations and working on strengthening relationships with her residents and staff.

“We stand steadfast with creating a solid foundation for individuals and a pathway so that they can follow to achieve their dreams,” DeJear said.

“I worked with nonprofits and corporations to best meet the needs of our low to moderate income communities,” DeJear said.

DeJear is taking the reins from Teree Caldwell Johnson who served as CEO for 20 years before she passed away from cancer in March.

“What she left …