Utah Housing Corporation CEO Announces Resignation
The state housing agency will conduct a national search for a new leader while maintaining ongoing ownership programs.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Residential
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David Damschen, the president and CEO of the Utah Housing Corporation, has submitted his resignation. He will continue to serve in his role until a successor is identified through a nationwide search.
Why it matters
As the state entity responsible for low-income homeownership programs and housing tax credits, the organization is currently operating amid a challenging market where Utah mortgage rates remain above 7%.
The Utah Housing Corporation, an independent state entity based in West Valley City, manages assistance programs for low-income residents and multifamily housing tax credits. The current mortgage rate environment in Utah sits above 7%.
The players
David Damschen
The departing president and CEO who has led the independent state organization since 2021.
Utah Housing Corporation
An independent state agency that provides housing tax credits and homeownership programs for low-income residents.
Harris Simmons
The board chair who was appointed to lead the organization's governance in June 2026.
The details
The Utah Housing Corporation operates as an independent state entity designed to facilitate homeownership for low-income Utahns and manage housing development tax credits. Following the decision for a leadership transition, the board will oversee a national recruitment process to find a replacement for David Damschen. Damschen has committed to remaining in his position during this interim period to ensure operational continuity.
Timeline
May 2021: David Damschen began his tenure as president and CEO.
June 2026: Harris Simmons was appointed as board chair.
October 23, 2026: The resignation was officially announced.
The Home Front
The Utah Housing Corporation remains the primary state-level administrator for critical housing tax credit programs used to drive multifamily development. Leadership changes at this entity can influence the long-term strategic implementation of state-backed low-income housing policies.
Residents currently participating in state-sponsored homeownership programs should continue to use established contact channels for their existing accounts. You should check the organization's official website for any updates regarding program eligibility or upcoming application windows.
The takeaway
The upcoming leadership transition at the Utah Housing Corporation comes at a time of continued pressure in the housing sector. Families interested in low-income homeownership support should monitor the official corporate board announcements for updates on the selection process.
Further reading
For more on local market conditions and available programs, see our guide to Residential.
Live Poll
Do you believe state housing programs effectively increase homeownership opportunities in your community?
