Sharon F. Owens

Sharon Owens, a graduate of Syracuse University, committed much of her energy serving individuals and families within the fields of housing, community development and human services for almost 30 years.

In May 2013, Ms. Owens became the third Chief Operating Officer of Syracuse Model Neighborhood Facility, Inc. in the agency’s history. Her vision to expand services that infuse human services with community revitalization initiatives will further serve even more communities in need.

Prior to her position with Syracuse Model Neighborhood Facility, Inc., Ms. Owens served as Deputy Commissioner of Neighborhood and Business Development for the City of Syracuse. She was instrumental in administering the City’s Community Development Block Grant funding to help foster the revitalization of neighborhoods. She also worked to create job opportunities through her many housing, community development and economic development efforts. In addition, Ms. Owens worked tirelessly to oversee and manage Section 3 and Minority/Women-Owned Business participation in funded projects.

Prior to joining city government, Ms. Owens served as Deputy Director of Housing for the not-for-profit agencies Home HeadQuarters, Inc. and Jubilee Homes of Syracuse. In both positions, she was responsible for program development, grant writing and staff supervision.

Ms. Owens’ professional accomplishments are deep-rooted in her sense of community. She has developed relationships with many families throughout Syracuse, assisting them in strengthening their community through affordable housing programs.

Ms. Owens’ commitment to people and community is further reflected in the time she spent with People’s Equal Action and Community Effort, Inc. (PEACE), a Community Action Agency of Onondaga County, where she worked full time as the Early Head Start Family and Community Coordinator and the Youth Services Component Director.