Melissa Goins of Maures Development Group Joins WHEDA Board

Melissa N. Goins, president and founder of Maures Development Group, has been appointed to serve as a member of the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) Board of Directors. She has been elected by the WHEDA Board to serve as vice-chair.

Maures Development Group of Milwaukee focuses on revitalizing urban neighborhoods and communities through residential and commercial development. Founded by Goins in 2006, Maures has developed nearly 400 apartment units contributing more than $75 million of investment to the city of Milwaukee. The firm was established on the principle of leveraging bricks and mortar to bring pride and hope to people.

“Melissa’s experience with transformative neighborhood projects will prove tremendously valuable in her service on WHEDA’s Board of Directors,” said WHEDA CEO Joaquín Altoro. “We look forward to her inspiration and insights as well as her leadership as vice-chair.”

Goins became involved in commercial real estate after completing Marquette University’s Associates in Commercial Real Estate Program, which seeks to create diversity in the industry through networking, training and placement. She said the additional skills and community connections gained through the program have supported her success in delivering housing solutions to neighborhoods ripe for reinvestment. In addition, she leverages her MBA from Marquette University and her MS from Alverno College to combine business and civic engagement to create long lasting impact.

“Our work at Maures proves that progress can be made one building, one business and one opportunity at a time,” Goins said. “While Wisconsin continues to experience economic growth, disparities persist that prevent many from reaching their full potential. I appreciate the opportunity to join in and continue the search for holistic solutions as a member of WHEDA’s board.”

Goins has received multiple recognitions for her tenacity, passion, creativity and ability to honor her word while completing her developments with a special touch. Most recently, Melissa was honored by WCREW as the Woman of the Year, the Greater Milwaukee Foundation as the Frank Kirkpatrick award recipient, Junior Achievement of Wisconsin as the Peak Performer in the Wisconsin Business Hall of Fame, and Historic Milwaukee Inc as a Remarkable Milwaukee Honoree.

WHEDA board members include the Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Administration (or designee), the CEO of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, and six public members nominated by the governor and appointed by the state senate. In addition, two state senators, one from each party and selected by senate leadership, and two state representatives, one from each party and selected by assembly leadership, also serve on the WHEDA Board. Members serve staggered four-year terms.

ABOUT WHEDA

For over 45 years, WHEDA, as an independent state authority, has provided low-cost financing for housing and small business development in Wisconsin. Since 1972, WHEDA has financed more than 75,000 affordable rental units, helped more than 130,000 families purchase a home and made more than 29,000 small business and agricultural loan guarantees. For more information on WHEDA programs, visit wheda.com or call 800-334-6873.