Our Staff
HERITAGE HOUSING PARTNERS CORPORATION
The professional team behind HHP's properties and programs
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Marcus Smith
Since July 2026
Marcus Smith serves as the Executive Director of Heritage Housing Partners Corporation (HHPC), a nonprofit organization established in 1967. In this role, he oversees the organization's operations and affordable housing portfolio throughout Howard County and surrounding jurisdictions.
HHPC owns and manages several affordable housing communities, including Shalom Square, a 50-unit property serving seniors and persons with disabilities, and Oakland Place, a 16-unit four-bedroom townhome community that includes four Moderately Income Housing Units (MIHUs). HHPC also has an ownership interest in 25 scattered-site shared living homes for persons with disabilities, which the organization manages.
In addition, HHPC partners with Humanim to support three Howard County homelessness programs serving more than 40 chronically homeless individuals and families. The organization also provides property management services for affordable housing owned by nonprofit organizations, including CHAI, Compass, The Arc of Howard County, and the Howard County Historical Society. Beyond Howard County, HHPC manages affordable housing units in Baltimore City, Anne Arundel County, and Harford County.
As Executive Director, Marcus provides strategic leadership for the organization and supervises a dedicated team of full-time and part-time staff, as well as consultants, ensuring HHPC continues its mission of providing quality affordable housing and exceptional resident services.
Marcus holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Master of Science in Real Estate Development. He was born and raised in Annapolis, Maryland, and now resides in Prince George's County, Maryland, with his family. With nearly three decades of experience in affordable housing and property management, Marcus is committed to expanding housing opportunities, strengthening communities, and providing exceptional leadership in the affordable housing industry.
Our Team
ACCOUNTING MANAGER
Dana Lyons
Dana Lyons is the Accounting Manager for Heritage Housing Partners. Employed with HHP since 2014, she oversees all areas of accounting including accounts payable, receivables, insurance compliance, and annual audits, and often serves as office manager for HHP headquarters.
Previously, Dana was a small business owner of two businesses in Carroll County, MD, with over 18 years of accounting, marketing, and business experience.
PROPERTY MANAGER
Michaela Lyons
I began my career in property management in 2017 and have steadily worked my way up through dedication, hard work, and a commitment to providing exceptional service to residents and property owners. Over the years, I have gained extensive experience in day to day property operations, resident relations, lease administration, maintenance coordination, and regulatory compliance.
Today, as a Property Manager, I am passionate about building positive relationships with residents, and ensuring properties operate efficiently. I take pride in being organized, approachable, and solution oriented, always striving to provide excellent service while maintaining high standards for the communities I serve.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and I’m always looking for ways to continue growing both personally and professionally.