FHLBank Chicago Appoints Fern Orie to Advisory Council to Strengthen Support for Native Communities
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (FHLBank Chicago) proudly announces the appointment of Fern Orie, CEO of the Wisconsin Indigenous Housing and Economic Development Corporation (WIHEDC), to its Community Investment Advisory Council (Advisory Council) for a three-year term. Orie’s extensive experience in housing and community development, particularly her focus on advancing homeownership and economic opportunities for Native communities, makes her a valuable addition to the council.
Orie, a member of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, has dedicated her career to empowering Native communities through innovative financial and housing solutions. She previously served as Executive Director of the Oneida Housing Authority, where she worked to address housing challenges within her community. Recognizing the need for greater financial resources, she founded and led the Wisconsin Native Loan Fund (WINLF), a statewide Native Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI) and an FHLBank Chicago member. Today, as CEO of WIHEDC, she supports Native CDFIs throughout Wisconsin and co-leads the Wisconsin Native Homeownership Coalition, a statewide initiative aimed at increasing homeownership opportunities for Native populations.
In addition to her leadership roles, Orie serves on the Board of Directors of Bay Bank, a Native-owned financial institution established by the Oneida Nation and a member of FHLBank Chicago. This diverse experience equips her with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing underserved communities.
“Expanding homeownership and economic opportunities for underserved communities has been at the core of my career,” said Orie. “I’m honored to bring my experience with Native communities to the Advisory Council and support FHLBank Chicago’s impactful work across Illinois and Wisconsin.”
A Council Dedicated to Addressing Housing and Economic Challenges
FHLBank Chicago’s Community Investment Advisory Council plays a critical role in shaping the Bank’s programs and initiatives. Composed of leaders from community and nonprofit organizations in Illinois and Wisconsin, the Advisory Council provides valuable insights and guidance on issues related to affordable housing and community lending. By working closely with FHLBank Chicago’s Board of Directors, the council helps ensure that the Bank’s efforts effectively address regional housing and economic challenges.
In addition to welcoming Orie, FHLBank Chicago has reappointed three distinguished members to the Advisory Council: Allison Clements, Sharon Legenza, and David Porterfield. Their continued service reinforces the council’s capacity to address complex housing and community development issues.
Reappointed Members: Strengthening Expertise and Advocacy
Allison Clements
Allison Clements serves as the Executive Director of the Illinois Housing Council (IHC), a nonprofit organization representing entities involved in affordable housing development across Illinois. In her role, Clements advocates for legislation, policies, and best practices that advance affordable housing initiatives. Under her leadership, IHC has experienced significant growth in membership and programs, enhancing its ability to address housing challenges statewide.
Sharon Legenza
Sharon Legenza is the Executive Director of Housing Action Illinois, a coalition dedicated to protecting and expanding access to quality, affordable housing throughout the state. Her work involves developing strategies, advocating for policy changes, and leading public education efforts. Legenza’s commitment to addressing housing inequities extends to her service on the Illinois Affordable Housing Trust Fund Advisory Commission and the Cook County Economic Development Advisory Council. Additionally, she is a past Chair of the Board of Directors for the Community Opportunity Alliance.
David Porterfield
David Porterfield, Chair of the Advisory Council, is a Community Development Consultant with Hope Community Capital, a national consulting firm based in Madison, Wisconsin. With over three decades of experience, Porterfield has been instrumental in developing more than 3,000 affordable housing units. His expertise lies in designing innovative financing programs that cater to the unique needs of underserved populations. Through his work, Porterfield has created lasting impacts on communities across Wisconsin and beyond.
Expanding Impact Through Collaboration
The addition of Fern Orie and the reappointment of Allison Clements, Sharon Legenza, and David Porterfield underscore FHLBank Chicago’s commitment to leveraging diverse expertise to address housing and economic disparities. Together, the Advisory Council members bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, enabling FHLBank Chicago to advance its mission of fostering affordable housing and economic growth in Illinois and Wisconsin.
FHLBank Chicago’s ongoing efforts include working with member financial institutions, community organizations, and other stakeholders to develop innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the region. By focusing on collaboration and inclusivity, the Bank aims to create a lasting positive impact on underserved communities.
A Vision for the Future
As the housing and economic landscapes continue to evolve, the insights and leadership provided by the Advisory Council will play a vital role in guiding FHLBank Chicago’s initiatives. The addition of Fern Orie, with her deep understanding of Native communities and her proven track record of creating impactful solutions, represents a significant step forward in the Bank’s mission.
“We are thrilled to welcome Fern Orie to the Advisory Council and to continue working with Allison Clements, Sharon Legenza, and David Porterfield,” said a representative from FHLBank Chicago. “Their expertise and dedication will help us address critical challenges and expand opportunities for communities throughout Illinois and Wisconsin.”
FHLBank Chicago remains committed to fostering inclusive growth and ensuring that all communities have access to the resources they need to thrive. Through the collaborative efforts of its Advisory Council, the Bank is well-positioned to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those it serves.
About the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago
FHLBank Chicago is a regional bank in the Federal Home Loan Bank System. FHLBanks are government-sponsored enterprises created by Congress to ensure access to low-cost funding for their member financial institutions, with a focus on providing solutions that support the housing and community development needs of members’ customers. FHLBank Chicago is a self-capitalizing cooperative, owned by its Illinois and Wisconsin members, including commercial banks, credit unions, insurance companies, savings institutions and community development financial institutions. To learn more about FHLBank Chicago, please visit fhlbc.com
