Four years ago, Todd Philips would have scoffed at the idea of a career in low-cost or affordable housing, “and now I can’t imagine doing anything else,” he says. “I fell into my calling.”

Philips was introduced to housing issues as campaign chairman for Toni Atkins’ re-election to the San Diego City Council. After the election, Philips needed a job and the San Diego Housing Commission needed a director of policy and public affairs. It seemed a good match.

A Houston native, Philips earned his bachelor’s degree at Southern Methodist University, his master’s at the University of Houston and a law degree at USD. He is involved with a number of civic organizations, including the planning group in Scripps Ranch, where he lives with his wife, Liz, and their 2-year-old son, Grey.

He is a volunteer with Junior Achievement and recently received the John Craven Memorial Award given to a public employee who has gone beyond the call of duty to assist affordable housing developers.

“Every day when I leave my office,” says Philips, “I know I’ve made this city better. I have helped people better their lives.”