Carmen
COO
Carmen Gandulla is a public sector executive and housing and community development advisor with experience spanning municipal government, public finance, and cross-sector strategy across New Jersey. Her work focuses on advancing housing access, economic development, institutional accountability, and effective implementation of federally funded programs.
Her experience includes work related to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs, including the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), and other housing and community development funding initiatives. She brings a strong understanding of compliance frameworks, funding structures, and performance accountability requirements associated with HUD-supported programs.
Carmen has executive-level experience in public sector financial management, policy implementation, and intergovernmental coordination. She has supported initiatives involving CDBG-funded activities and community development projects designed to expand housing opportunity and strengthen local capacity. Her expertise includes stakeholder facilitation, grant-supported program oversight, and translating federal and state policy requirements into practical local implementation strategies.
She currently serves as a New Jersey State Puerto Rican Commissioner and holds leadership roles with community and civic organizations across the state. In 2023, she received a Community Development Award from the National Community Development Association in recognition of her contributions to advancing equitable housing and community investment strategies. She was also honored with a Rising Leader Award recognizing her leadership and impact in public service and community advancement.
Carmen holds a Bachelor of Arts from Rider University and continues to support initiatives that promote responsible governance, housing access, and community-centered development.