BHA employees Nancy Otero, Director of Admissions, Sahar Lawrence, Resident Capacity Coordinator, and recently retired BHA Police Sgt. Duane Nelson were recognized as civic heroes during Mayor Michelle Wu’s State of the City event yesterday. The Civic Heroes project shared profiles and an awesome video celebrating the many city employees who work tirelessly to keep Boston going.

“I am honored to have been selected as a civic hero, it makes all the work that I do for our clients that much better and worth it,” said Nancy Otero, who runs the department that helps many families secure permanent housing, “It makes you realize the work that we do on daily is meaningful and touches so many.”

Sahar Lawrence works throughout the city and is responsible for coordinating and implementing BHA’s resident capacity-building initiatives across the public housing and Section 8 portfolios. “I am honored to be selected as a civic hero and to be recognized alongside my amazing colleagues who work hard every day to make a positive impact on our residents lives.”

Sargent Duane Nelson served the BHA police for 26 years. “I worked here for 26 years and I don’t regret a day of it, I loved working here.” Duane was a role model for everyone involved with the BHA police department.
“Without Duane, the BHA police force wouldn’t be where it is today. He truly set the standard” said Shu Benford, the current BHA Chief of Police.

The BHA is very proud of our employees and the great work they put in day in and day out. Congratulations to Nancy, Sahar and Duane!