Systems, Strategy, and Social Fabric: Michelle Foster’s Leadership in Focus

In this episode, we’re joined by Michelle Foster, the first full-time Executive Director of the National Association of State and Local Equity Funds (NASLEF), whose career spans urban planning, government, nonprofit finance, and equity investing.  With a deep belief in the power of resilient, compassionate communities, Michelle shares her winding path into affordable housing finance—including a life-changing move to Detroit, a time bank she founded as a grad student, and a systems thinking approach that now drives her leadership. She reflects on the importance of local engagement, the impact of landmark projects like Andy’s Place, and NASLEF’s expanding vision—including the addition of its first national member.  Michelle brings over a decade of experience across sectors and a rare blend of data expertise, community insight, and visionary leadership. Her personal mission? To foster cycles of learning and giving that strengthen the social fabric.