Executive Team
Jorjio Hopkins
President
Jorjio Hopkins is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and seasoned real estate professional with a passion for mission-driven investment. After serving eight years as a Logistics Officer, he transitioned into private real estate, raising nearly $90 million in capital and helping close numerous large-scale multifamily acquisitions across the country and fund numerous affordable housing developments. He previously served over 5 years at MLG Capital, where he focuses on Fundraising and Investor Relations, leveraging a strong foundation in real estate analysis and investment strategy to analyze Billions of dollars in Multifamily deals. He holds a Master’s degree in Real Estate, is a CCIM designee, and was named a 2022 Milwaukee Business Journal Veteran in Business. Beyond his professional work, Jorjio has dedicated over 20 years to community service, including seven years of leadership on nonprofit boards and committees. He lives in Wisconsin with his wife and their five children, where his commitment to family and community continues to shape his personal and professional mission.

Chris Bailey
Vice President
Chris Bailey, cofounder of Cordon Housing, is devoted to making a lasting impact in the lives of low-income veterans by providing affordable housing to veterans in need. His unique blend of experience includes 7 years as an infantryman in the US Army and a Master’s degree in Real Estate Development from Tulane University. Notably, Chris also played a key role at the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority, where he financed over $90 million in affordable housing projects. His rich background in commercial real estate also encompasses valuable contributions to external development firms, including Ryan Companies and Pennrose, where he assisted in the development of over $200 million in multifamily development projects. Chris’s combined military service, educational accomplishments, and professional acumen make him an exceptional leader in the quest to provide sustainable housing for veterans in need.

Board Members
Brigadier General Juan Ruiz
(Retired)
General Juan Ruiz is a highly accomplished leader with a multifaceted background spanning real estate, military service, and aerospace/defense engineering development. Currently serving as the President and CEO of BGR Real Estate Investments, he provides critical funding for property acquisition, rehabilitation, and construction—driving growth in the real estate investment sector. In addition to his real estate leadership, General Ruiz is a Commercial and Residential Real Estate Broker at Compass in Algonquin, Illinois. His in-depth market knowledge and dedication to client satisfaction enhance his contributions to the real estate industry. With a remarkable military career spanning 31 years, General Ruiz retired as a Brigadier General from the U.S. Army. He commanded the 311th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) and served as Assistant Chief of Staff, J4 - Wartime (Director of Logistics) for United States Forces Korea (USFK). His expertise in logistics and leadership left a lasting impact. Previously, at The Boeing Company, General Ruiz was an executive who directed engineering and technology activities across multiple business units, managing significant research and development projects. His accomplishments include cost-effective measures, adherence to systems engineering best practices, and strategic planning. General Ruiz's career also includes roles at MITRE, where he was the Leavenworth Site Manager, and at Hughes Aircraft Company as a Project Manager, where he played a crucial role in developing innovative satellite-based defense systems for national and international customers. General Juan Ruiz's extensive leadership experience in both military and corporate arenas, along with his strategic acumen, brings valuable insights to the board. His diverse skill set and commitment to excellence make him an invaluable asset in guiding the organization toward its goals.
General Juan Ruiz
(JP Morgan Chase)
Xavier Clarke is a dedicated leader with a diverse background in entrepreneurship, veteran support, and ecosystem development. He currently serves as the Director of the Ambassador Program at Bunker Labs, where he cultivates and connects a network of driven individuals, ensuring that veterans and military spouse entrepreneurs are empowered and embraced in the business world. Xavier's journey began in the United States Marine Corps, where he served for over eight years, holding various roles including Marine Liaison Team member and Logistics and Ground Operations Specialist. His commitment to service continued as he took on a role with the Wounded Warrior Regiment, where he facilitated the integration of non-medical and medical care to wounded, ill, and injured Marines. Transitioning from military service to entrepreneurship, Xavier founded Yosa Matcha, a company providing premium matcha tea from Uji, Japan. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to roles in digital marketing and project management, where he leveraged his skills to drive business growth and innovation. Xavier's dedication to veteran support is exemplified by his work with the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) and Bunker Labs. As the past Director of Ecosystem Development at IVMF Bunker Labs, & current role as he has played a pivotal role as Vice President & Business Consultant for JP Morgan Chase, in building supportive ecosystems for veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs, organizing impactful events, and fostering partnerships with key stakeholders. Academically, Xavier holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Marketing, and Business Law from California State University, Northridge, and a Master of Business Administration in Finance and Business Intelligence from the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business, where he made the Dean's List. Additionally, he earned a Web Publishing Certificate from UC San Diego Extended Studies and an Associate of Science in Filmmaking and Production Management from the Los Angeles Film School. Xavier Clarke’s multifaceted experience in the military, entrepreneurship, and ecosystem development, combined with his commitment to empowering veterans, makes him an invaluable addition to the Cordon Housing board. His strategic vision and dedication to community building align perfectly with our organization's mission and values.
Lakeysha Sowunmi
(Boys & Girls Clubs of NW San Diego)
LaKeysha Sowunmi is a seasoned leader with over 15 years of experience in public health and community engagement. She previously served as the Director of Resident Services and Programs at Community HousingWorks (CHW), where she ensures the effective delivery of services in financial literacy, education, health, and wellness. In this role, LaKeysha establishes processes and enforces policies to ensure compliance with all funder requirements. LaKeysha's extensive career includes significant roles such as Community Engagement Manager at CHW and Rise Against Hunger, and Program Coordinator at Rady Children's Hospital–San Diego. She has been instrumental in mobilizing and engaging civic leaders, residents, and faith-based organizations through media campaigns and intervention implementation, particularly during her time with the California Department of Public Health. Her dedication to improving access to education, economic mobility, and health for vulnerable populations has earned her several accolades, including the UC San Diego Diversity Award, recognizing her outstanding contributions to diversity and inclusion. In addition to her professional achievements, LaKeysha is the President of the San Diego Women’s Affordable Housing Network, where she advocates for policies and practices that support affordable housing for women. She also actively participates in various volunteer roles, including with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and as a spokesperson for the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation. LaKeysha holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services from The University of Arizona Global Campus and has completed specialized training in Naval Aviation from the Naval Education and Training Command. Her service in the U.S. Navy, where she earned multiple commendations, further underscores her commitment to excellence and leadership. LaKeysha Sowunmi’s comprehensive experience in public health, community engagement, and affordable housing—combined with her dedication to diversity and inclusion—make her an invaluable asset to the Cordon Housing board. Her strategic vision and passion for community empowerment align perfectly with our organization's mission and values.
David Onofrei
(National Equity Fund)
Dave Onofrei is a seasoned professional with a strong background in real estate asset management and data analysis. Currently serving as the Asset Operations Manager at National Equity Fund, Inc., Dave plays a critical role in optimizing various functions in asset management operations and data reporting. Prior to this, Dave held key positions at Longwood Development / WPD Management, where he excelled in negotiating rent increases, implementing budget variance reporting, and designing asset management models using Python and Power Query. His expertise streamlined operations and enhanced data processes by automating rent receipt recording for over 1,300 rental units and leveraging Excel’s Power Query for report automation. His extensive experience in property management includes roles at Drexel & LPE, L.P. / MLG Management Services, where he oversaw financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and tenant screening. Dave's commitment to excellence extends to his academic background. He served as an Undergraduate Research Assistant at DePaul University, contributing to research efforts in oil and pharmaceutical markets with his data analysis skills. He also served on United States Army Active Duty as Light Infantry with 2-87 INF, 3BCT, 10th MNT DIV, with a deployment to Afghanistan in 2009. Additionally, Dave served in the United States Army Reserves with the 470th MCB, where he gained valuable leadership experience managing equipment and personnel. Dave Onofrei’s expertise in asset management, data analysis, and leadership makes him a valuable addition to our board. His strategic thinking and commitment to excellence align with our organization’s goals and values.



