50/50 Women of Influence with Lori Little: Raise Your Hand: Faith, Purpose & the Journey You Never Planned

You don’t have to know where the journey leads. Trust your gifts. Raise your hand.

That message captures Lori Little’s remarkable career and the wisdom she shares with hosts Jennifer Green and Diana McIver in this special WAHNcast 50 Over 50 episode.

A Baylor Law graduate, Lori never planned on a career in affordable housing. A two-line newspaper job ad led her to research what LIHTC meant, take a chance and raise her hand. That opportunity launched decades of leadership and service, including 22 years with the National Affordable Housing Trust, where she ultimately served as CEO.

Lori shares why curiosity, mentorship and a willingness to try something new have shaped her journey. She also reflects on resident services, women’s evolving role in affordable housing, work-life balance and the importance of lifting up the next generation.

As WAHN’s inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Lori’s story is a reminder that a meaningful career doesn’t always follow the path you planned.

Sometimes you trust the journey, use the gifts you’ve been given and raise your hand.