Carlina Rivera, President and CEO of the New York State Association for Affordable Housing (NYSAFAH), has spent her career advancing equity, housing, and community development. As a New York City Council Member representing the 2nd District for eight years, she prioritized affordable housing, helping secure over $10 million in capital funding and playing a key role in passing the landmark City of Yes for Housing Opportunity rezoning law. Raised by a single mother in Section 8 housing on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, Rivera became an activist early, organizing with neighbors to Section 8 contract renewals for their homes. She began her career in after-school programming for high-needs schools, then served as director of programs at the nonprofit GOLES, an officer of Manhattan Community Board 3, and legislative director for Council Member Rosie Mendez. On the Council, she chaired the Committee on Hospitals during the COVID-19 crisis, led the Committees on Criminal Justice and Cultural Affairs, and served on the Land Use Committee and Budget Negotiation Team. Rivera holds a B.A. in Journalism from Marist College and lives with her husband, two sons, dog, and pet turtle on Manhattan’s East Side.