18.10 CSU Alum & former U.S. Secretary of Housing & Urban Development Marcia Fudge

Marcia L. Fudge, a CSU law school alum, served as the U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) from 2021 to 2024. A dedicated public servant, Fudge (a Democrat) has a long history of leadership, including her tenure as mayor of Warrensville Heights and as a U.S. Representative for Ohio’s 11th Congressional District. Known for her advocacy on issues such as affordable housing, economic development, and social equity, Fudge brought her wealth of experience and commitment to public service to the national stage as HUD Secretary.

As HUD Secretary, Fudge was a member of the President’s Cabinet. HUD manages a wide array of programs focused on public housing, homelessness prevention, and community development. With an annual budget exceeding $60 billion and a workforce of approximately 8,000 employees.

Regarding intergovernmental relations, HUD partners with state and local governments to address housing and urban development needs. Through programs like Community Development Block Grants, HOME Investment Partnerships, and Public Housing Assistance, HUD provides funding and technical support to state and local agencies. These partnerships enable governments, nonprofits, and private organizations to develop affordable housing and attempt to revitalize communities.

Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) are a key federal funding program managed by HUD to support projects in cities and counties, including Cleveland, Ohio. These grants provide local governments with flexible funding, meaning the money can be used for a wide range of purposes as long as it aligns with the program’s goals. Local governments can decide how to use the funds to meet their community’s specific needs, such as improving affordable housing, creating jobs, or upgrading public facilities like parks and roads. In Cleveland, CDBG funds might be used to repair homes in underserved neighborhoods, help small businesses grow, or enhance public spaces to strengthen community connections.