MHP is proud to present its 2026 Outstanding Advocate Awards. MHP recognizes outstanding volunteers and organizational partners who have made significant contributions to promote affordable housing solutions at the local, state, and federal levels.

2026 Awardees:

MHP is proud to recognize Stephannie Lewis as a 2026 Outstanding Advocate. Stephannie has been an enthusiastic and effective advocate for homes we can afford, building the public narrative with personal stories and support for structural solutions. As an engaged member of the Our Future Starts at Home campaign and efforts to increase emergency housing assistance, Stephannie has testified, mobilized her network, and helped elevate the urgency of housing stability solutions. A big-picture thinker and collaborative leader, Stephanie has supported housing leaders across the continuum, offering strategic insight, encouragement, and partnership to help advance lasting solutions for Minnesotans. 

MHP is proud to recognize Skip Duchesneau as a 2026 Outstanding Advocate. Skip is a fierce proponent of rural communities and ensuring there are homes to meet all needs and income levels. Skip is frequently sought after for his expert feedback on rural development issues by state officials, fellow practitioners, advocates, and lawmakers—he generously gives his time to educate and support peers and colleagues. As a champion of preservation efforts for deeply affordable rural homes, such as USDA Section 515 properties, he has engaged federal, state, and local lawmakers to build political will and awareness of impacts for vulnerable rural residents. An engaged member of the rural development workgroup and a long-time champion of workforce housing and the State Housing Tax Credit Program, Skip is a trusted and effective communicator about the importance of home and the partnerships needed for effective solutions. 

MHP is proud to recognize Sadie Hart as a 2026 Outstanding Advocate. As a key influencer in Minnesota, Sadie’s community-focused leadership style and relationships have been critical to advancing efforts to secure sustainable and predictable state funding for housing stability and home at the scale required to meet the need. Sadie has been an active member of many state campaigns to advance supportive housing, emergency housing assistance, and dedicated funding for home—advocating with lawmakers and committees where decisions are made. She has taken initiative in meeting with local elected leaders to support housing solutions and build relationships. We are thankful for Sadie’s partnership with housing justice advocates in advancing housing solutions for Minnesota families.