Carolyn Fairman leads Housing North to new growth in northern Michigan

Carolyn Fairman has been appointed executive director of Housing North, a nonprofit that serves 10 counties in northern Michigan to help municipalities become “Housing Ready.” She began her tenure in late spring 2026, bringing a background in nonprofit leadership and a passion for local community development.

Fairman emphasizes a fresh, unbiased approach to the housing crisis, noting her experience in supply chain sustainability, labor rights, and migration. She plans to build teams, identify gaps, and create effective communication across the region, ensuring each county’s unique needs are met.

Her first‑year priorities include updating the Zoning Atlas and the needs assessment for all 10 counties, fostering collaboration, and preparing for the upcoming election to secure housing funding. She aims to make each county self‑sufficient in housing facilitation, reducing reliance on external support.

Read the full story at northernexpress.com.