Kenneth J. Brewer Sr.
Executive Director, H Street CDC, Washington, D.C.
Having worked for Fannie Mae as a senior deputy director and prior to that working at H Street for 14 years, Kenneth J. Brewer Sr. knows a thing or two about how to ensure better housing, education and health care for the poor. The current executive director of H Street Community Development Corporation takes time to share strategies for success.
Read what he has to say.
What inspires you to show up to work every day?
Coming to work and planning the development of various community based and real estate projects that include affordable housing, new retail and neighborhood facilities. Also, the love of my fraternity Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., which prescribes for me to be successful and an “achiever.”
How did you determine your career path?
By accident I became interested in real estate development after finishing Howard University’s School of Business and Public Administration. I worked for the D.C. government as a budget analyst but became frustrated about the bureaucratic process. I want something that provided “instant gratification.” Real estate development has now been the answer for approximately 20 years.
What other industries connect to your career choice?
The banking and mortgage industries connect to my career choice of real estate development. I worked for a small credit union before college and a large bank years later. I worked for the mortgage giant Fannie Mae for about six years and learned so much about the economy and Wall Street.
Describe the future skill sets that are essential to future business leader and innovators.
A. A high degree of confidence and self-worth is essential to competing no matter the industry.
B. Good set of academic skills which are primarily gained by a college education.
C. Strong and determined desire to be the best professional with a keen understanding of customer service.
D. The ability to listen, comprehend and provide positive feedback; both verbal and non-verbal communication.
E. The skillful use of diplomacy and dispute resolution when disagreements occur between parties.
F. Having a “winning” attitude and a smile during adverse conditions.
Define innovation methods you apply to your business and life.
1. Keep it simple when attempting to learn new subjects.
2. Never read too much into to the situation.
3. Do not jump to conclusions, but rather methodically access difficult situations.
4. Thinking about your own “innovative” ways of solving problems that encourage alternatives and courageous resolutions.
Describe goal setting methods you use and how you evaluate you success?
A. Evaluate matters closely by studying and researching prospective goals.
B. Devise a least three targets or goals that are reflective of your skills and or research.
C. Review your work toward reaching these goals.
D. Consult a confidant to critically discuss your progress towards the goals.
Who do you consider your peers in your field and a few that are great examples you can get support and best practices?
1. William J. Barrow III, former executive director of the H Street Community Development Corporation.
2. Albert “Butch” Hopkins, former president of the Anacostia Economic Development Corporation.
3. Robert Moore, president of the Development Corporation of Columbia Heights.
4. Joseph LeMense, Metro president, United Bank.
5. Anthony R. Bolling, KW Commercial & Sovereignty Real Estate Brokerages.
6. Sean Mitchell, vice president, Bank of America, Small Business Financing.
7. Archie Hill, former vice president, PNC Bank.
8. Rawle Andrews, regional vice president, AARP
Information and increased skill methods you use?
The Internet and scholarly news outlets such as, the New York Times and Wall Street Journal.
Name you favorite role models for success in two industries?
1. Robert Johnson of RLJ Companies and formerly CEO of Black Entertainment TV.
2. Reginald Lewis of TLC Beatrice and Tropicana Orange Juice.
Names three books that changed how you saw life and you recommend to others?
The Art of War
Judgement Days
Why Should White Guys Have All the Fun
Describe why lifelong learning is important to you?
Lifelong learning is important because it continually nourishes the soul and mind.
Describe the voice of success that you hear in your head?
The voice of success that I have in my head is that of my dear departed mother, Clara Lillian Brewer, telling me to keep achieving and to never surrender. My mother always inspired me to be the best. Her boundless love continues to keep me moving forward whether raising my children, being a good husband and a great people manager.
Community success based on what you do in the community means what to you?
What it means to me is the number of families and neighborhood that benefit from the work of the H Street Community Development Corporation, the benefit being the production of affordable housing and the establishment of critical retail stores ranging from grocery food stores to pharmacies.
Technology plays what role in your daily life?
I am the proud owner of several devices by Apple. The iPhone, iPad, iMac, iBook Pro and iPadMini have all made my life easier to manage. I have discovered and explored the universe through use of these devices. Additionally, I can constantly remain accessible to my children, wife and employees.
What software and tool of technology apps have made the biggest difference in your life?
Email, iPhone Contacts, Mercedes-Benz Mobile Phone Hands-Free and Microsoft Office has been most influential and has made biggest difference in my life.
What role does music and cultural events help define your self-identity?
I am a lover of jazz and classical music which keeps me smiling most of the day. I listen to classical music while working and jazz during long drives home. I believe music is the sound to my very own “live” film or movie which is revealed each day.
Define your personal culture.
My personal culture is a function of the heritage and proud upbringing that I have experienced. Primarily, I was raised by my mother after the death of my father when I was seven years old. I am the sixth of eight children and the second male. My family is the most important thing to me. I have been blessed to be married to my beautiful wife Deidre. I have three incredible children that are all creative thinkers. I have been blessed to have traveled the world with my family ranging from Brazil, South Africa, China, France and Italy.
Describe your favorite vacation spot.
Cape Town, South Africa because of the beautiful weather, wonderful culture and vast terrain with mountains, oceans and nearby wildlife preserves.
If you could change one thing about the world what would it be?
I would like to eradicate racism and all world conflicts resulting in war.
If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?
I wish that I could speak several different languages and have enough money to travel every month.
