The Journey Gala

CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS AWARD

Joslyn Carter, LCSW
Administrator, NYC Department of Homeless Services

Joslyn Carter, LCSW, is a dedicated leader with over 20 years of experience in social work and public service. As Administrator of New York City’s Department of Homeless Services (DHS), she oversees the nation’s largest municipal shelter system, serving thousands of individuals and families. Appointed in 2017 under Mayor de Blasio and reappointed in 2022 under Mayor Adams, Joslyn has implemented strategic initiatives that have significantly raised the bar on shelter operations and services.

Her career spans roles as a social worker at Kings County Hospital, Director of Social Services at the American Red Cross, and Director of Preventive Services at Talbot Services. A member of the National Alliance to End Homelessness Leadership Council, she also collaborates on trauma-informed initiatives for children in partnership with the Children’s Museum of Manhattan.

Joslyn holds degrees from Syracuse University and Hunter College and has completed a Clinical Social Work Fellowship at Yale. Joslyn lives in Brooklyn with her husband Dwayne, their son Jeremy, and dog, Skylar.

Community Housing Innovations (CHI) honors Joslyn Carter for her lifelong commitment to Homelessness and Human Services.

CORPORATE PARTNER OF THE YEAR AWARD

M&T Bank

M&T Bank is a community bank, delivering the capabilities of a big bank with the care and empathy of a locally focused institution. M&T offers advice, guidance, and solutions across the entire financial spectrum, combining M&T’s traditional banking services with the wealth management and institutional capabilities offered by Wilmington Trust*.

(*Wilmington Trust is a registered service mark used in connection with various fiduciary and non-fiduciary services offered by certain subsidiaries of M&T Bank Corporation.)

Tyré Robinson
Tarrytown Regional President

As Regional President for New York’s Tarrytown region, Tyré Robinson serves as a convener for the community, bringing together diverse stakeholders to explore and address regional challenges. Tyré is responsible for leading the Metro New York and Southern Connecticut Market as a Business Banking Market manager. Tyré also conceptualized and implemented the Brand Builder Program which helped more than 2,500 employees take an active role in their career development. She is a sponsor for the Equity One Sponsorship program, an overarching education and awareness campaign that promotes diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace. Tyré holds a master’s degree in Business Administration from NYU’s Stern School of Business.

UPWARD MOBILITY AWARD

Chyna Hill
First-time Homeowner

Chyna Hill’s journey to homeownership was one of perseverance, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. Chyna is currently the Associate Director of Annual Giving at Sarah Lawrence College. However, when she applied to our First-Time Homebuyer Grant Program in November 2023, she was balancing two jobs while pursuing a graduate degree. During her counseling sessions with Indhia Marin, the Homeownership Program Manager, she spoke with deep conviction about what homeownership meant to her. Inspired by her parents and driven by a desire to create stability for herself, Chyna was determined to seize every opportunity to turn her dream into reality.

After being deemed eligible for CHI’s grant, she received her grant certificate in February 2024. By April 2024, she had signed a contract to purchase a co-op, taking a significant step forward.

On January 9, 2025, Chyna stood at the closing table, not just as a buyer but as a testament to resilience. Her journey was not just about purchasing a home, it was about proving to herself that, through patience, perseverance, and the support of a dedicated team, she could overcome adversity. Her story is an inspiration to every aspiring homeowner who faces obstacles along the way. Homeownership is more than just a transaction—it is a triumph, and Chyna’s victory is one worth celebrating.

2024 EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

Sherranda Harris
Controller

Sherranda Harris has been a valued member of CHI since 2003, starting as a junior accountant and steadily advancing to her current role as Controller. Throughout her tenure, she has remained deeply committed to CHI’s mission of providing Housing Services to promote economic independence. In her position, Harris oversees key financial operations, including payroll, billing, accounts payable, and accounts receivable, playing a crucial role in the agency’s finance department.

Sherranda has over 20 years of experience in nonprofit finance. During her journey she has amassed experience, developed proficiency and built-up her extensive leadership skills.