HOUSTON – (Realty News Report) – The Houston Apartment Association (HAA) has appointed Casey Watts Morgan as its chief executive officer, marking the first time a woman has led the association in its 60-year history.
Morgan succeeds Jeff Hall, who recently retired after 36 years with the organization, including 17 years as CEO.
As the largest local apartment association in the United States, the Houston Apartment Association represents companies and professionals involved in the ownership, construction, management, maintenance, and operation of multifamily properties.
Before joining HAA, Morgan served as Executive Vice President & CEO of the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA), the fourth-largest home builders’ organization in the country. There she guided the association through a period of significant membership growth—surpassing 1,800 member companies in 2018—and led recovery and support efforts following Hurricane Harvey. Morgan also directed local, state, and federal advocacy initiatives on behalf of the homebuilding industry.
“As we began our search to fill the CEO position, Casey immediately stood out,” said Clay Hicks, HAA 2020 President. “Within minutes of meeting her, you know that she is going to do whatever it takes to succeed. Her professional background, paired with her passion and drive to succeed, make her the right leader for our association.”
Morgan takes the helm at a time when the multifamily market is facing softness caused by the coronavirus pandemic, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the region’s apartment industry.
A native Texan, Morgan began her career in Washington, D.C., serving as a staff assistant for U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison and as an executive assistant in the White House Office of Legislative Affairs under President George W. Bush. She later worked at the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Office of Governmental Affairs as associate director, serving as the department’s liaison to 10 southeastern states, including Texas, and also served as Policy Assistant to the U.S. Secretary of Transportation.
Morgan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Political Science from Baylor University and a Master’s degree in Public Policy from George Mason University. She serves on the board of HomeAid Houston, a nonprofit that builds shelters for people experiencing homelessness in the greater Houston area, and supports Operation Finally Home, a charity that constructs homes for local veterans.
Photo credit: Mark Hiebert, Hiebert Photography
Dec. 15, 2020 Realty News Report. Copyright 2020.
File: First Female CEO Appointed by HAA
File: (2) Casey Watts Morgan. First Female CEO Appointed Houston Apartment Association. HAA. GHBA. Clay Hicks