Dr. Sara Patenaude has been an affordable housing researcher and advocate since 2012. In her current role as Development Manager for the Decatur Housing Authority, Sara manages development projects and sources new development opportunities for low- and moderate-income families in the City of Decatur. Her previous experience includes developing and preserving affordable housing and Permanent Supportive Housing, creating comprehensive city and county housing strategies, and providing input into affordable housing needs for communities across the southeast.

Sara has a PhD in urban history and a Certificate in Planning and Economic Development from Georgia State University, where she studied affordable housing policy. In addition, she has an MA from University of Maryland, Baltimore County and a BA from Northern Kentucky University. Sara volunteers her time as an advisor for community groups advocating for affordable housing and supporting our unhoused neighbors, and currently serves as Clerk of the Board of Trustees for the Friends School of Atlanta and Vice President of Communications for the Atlanta Women’s Affordable Housing Network.