Deletta Dean

Passionate about improving the livability of disinvested communities, Deletta Dean chose a career in community development because she wanted to improve her neighborhood and others like it. She has more than 25 years of experience in community development, affordable housing and neighborhood preservation. Her work in these spaces has been purposeful and has given her a deep understanding of the challenges many communities faces, particularly marginalized communities. 

Prior to joining NeighborWorks America, Dean worked for 15 years at the City of Kansas City, Missouri, including 13 years as deputy director of the Neighborhoods and Housing Services Department. She also has a deep commitment to advancing equity and inclusion and served as executive sponsor of the City of Kansas City's first employee resource group that focused on developing emerging African American leaders in city government. 

Her background also includes serving as a program officer with Greater Kansas City LISC, various leadership roles with the Housing Authority of Kansas City, Missouri, a regional property manager for Cohen Esrey Real Estate Services, and a housing administrator with SAVE Inc., where she assisted with the development and management of Kansas City's first affordable housing program for persons living with HIV/AIDS.

Dean holds a bachelor's degree in Public Affairs and a Master of Public Affairs with a concentration in nonprofit management from Park University. She also earned the Certified Public Manager designation from the University of Kansas. She serves on boards for several community-based organizations, mentors youth and volunteers throughout Kansas City.