Aaron Gornstein

Aaron Gornstein became the President and CEO of POAH, Inc. in June 2015. He provides overall leadership and oversight of the organization, including strategic planning, financial management, supervision of the executive team, and external relations and partnerships.

From 2012-2015, Gornstein served as undersecretary for the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), under former Governor Deval Patrick, where he greatly expanded rental assistance and homeless prevention programs, reformed and improved state public housing, and launched a comprehensive supportive housing initiative.

Prior to that, he served as executive director of Citizens’ Housing and Planning Association (CHAPA) for 21 years, where he spearheaded passage of state and federal legislation, launched innovation programs, and helped to form numerous coalitions.

Gornstein earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin—Madison, and his Master of Arts degree in Urban and Environmental Policy from Tufts University. He serves as chair of the board of directors of Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future and as a board member for National Low Income Housing Coalition, Technical Assistance Collaborative, and New Lease for Homeless Families.