NHA EMBARKS ON A PARADIGM SHIFT: TRANSFORMING ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE - 08-23-24
FT. DEFIANCE—Navajo Housing Authority, the largest tribally designated housing entity in Indian Country, is undergoing a transformative shift in its work environment. This change is aimed at fostering transparence, accountability, and a more empowering atmosphere to ensure effective results from every employee.
NHA CEO Heather L. Duncan-Etsitty emphasized that this cultural shift is not just about improving internal processes but is also a strategic move to enhance the overall work environment, enabling exceptional customer service and unified leadership as NHA strategizes its five-year plan.
“We aspire to be the employer of choice for Navajo employees,” said Duncan-Etsitty. “To achieve this, we must safeguard our most valuable resource—our workforce.”
Key transformations include the introduction of new laptop computers for staff, the implementation of customer service surveys to refine key performance areas, and weekly meetings with branch chiefs to communicate priorities and ensure project deliverables.
“We are here to provide safe and sanitary housing for the Navajo people,” said Duncan-Etsitty. “To accomplish this, we are collaborating with tribal leadership, residents, employees, and stakeholders.”
The NHA Board of Commissioners has laid a strong foundation through the annual Indian Housing Plan, guiding NHA’s efforts to serve the Navajo people.
With housing management offices spread across Arizona and New Mexico—including locations in Chinle, Crownpoint, Dilcon, Ft. Defiance, Ganado, Kayenta, Navajo, Ojo Amarillo, Pine Hill, Pinon, Shiprock, Threau, Thajiilee, and Tuba City—NHA prioritizes safety in all its operations.
The NHA Occupational Health and Safety Section is currently revising its safety policy to streamline services and bolster security.
“The Safety Section is in the process of procuring services for biological, methamphetamine, and fentanyl cleanup,” said Melvin Young, safety manager. Tenant and employee safety remain at the forefront of all activities.
Safety training is provided for new workforce members, covering defensive driving, the NHA Vehicle Policy, and emergency preparedness. Regular safety inspections are also conducted across NHA offices and buildings, with only five of the 61 departments left to inspect before the end of the fiscal year.
In addition to First Aid training, the safety section offers instruction in emergency preparedness, active shooter response, hostile work environments, and workplace violence. These efforts are integral to NHA’s mission of “Providing a Stable Foundation for Families to Live, Grow, and Walk in Beauty.”
For those seeking employment, NHA invites you to apply online at navajohousingauthority.org. With 60 positions currently vacant, NHA offers competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and a dynamic work environment.
NHA is seeking dedicated individuals to join its team and contribute to expanding housing opportunities on the Navajo Nation.
Be sure to visit the NHA booth at this year’s Navajo Nation Fair. On Kid’s Day, NHA will be distributing educational items such as coloring books, crayons, and foam hammers.
During the Elder Fest grand entry, NHA will share messaging about the organization’s commitment to serving the Navajo people. Educational items including pens, fly swatters, and First Aid kits will also be distributed to Navajo elders.
“Enjoy your time at the Navajo Nation Fair this year—it’s an event that creates wonderful memories,” Duncan Etsitty said, adding, “Just make sure to keep it a safe one.”
Information: www.navajohousingauthority.org
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