The St. Louis Housing Authority (SLHA) Board of Commissioners is proud to announce the appointment of Latasha K. Barnes as Executive Director. Latasha is a staunch advocate for affordable housing with a robust legal background and extensive experience in tenant advocacy, fair housing enforcement, and community development. Her expertise uniquely equips her to navigate complex regulations and develop innovative solutions that will benefit both SLHA and its residents.
“Latasha brings a wealth of experience and passion to this role,” explained SLHA Board Chairman Sal Martinez. “As our Acting Executive Director and former Chief of Staff, she has already demonstrated a strong commitment to our mission and a collaborative leadership style that fosters resident-centered policies and trauma-informed housing practices.”
Before her tenure at SLHA, Latasha made significant contributions as an attorney and equity advocate for underserved and low-income clients. She served as a senior attorney for Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, Inc., and as a Managing Attorney and Race Equity Task Force Chair for Land of Lincoln Legal Aid, Inc.
Latasha, a licensed attorney in Missouri and Illinois, holds a Juris Doctor from Saint Louis University School of Law and a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Georgia. In 2021, she was honored with the Rising Star in Community Building Award for her contributions to community development efforts in St. Louis City.
“I am incredibly honored by this opportunity to serve as the Executive Director of the St. Louis Housing Authority,” said Barnes. “Looking ahead, I am brimming with hope and excitement for the future of our families, staff, and agency.”
For more information about the St. Louis Housing Authority’s programs and services, visit slha.org.
