Published: May 7, 2009

The University of Colorado at Boulder announced today that Nestor Davidson, associate professor of law, has accepted an appointment as principal deputy general counsel at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, which works with communities across the country to promote homeownership, affordable rental housing, community development and fair housing.

"I am grateful for the opportunity to serve with Secretary Shaun Donovan and Helen Kanovsky, President Obama's choice for general counsel, at a time when we face significant challenges in every area of HUD's mandate," said Davidson.

Davidson previously served as special counsel to the secretary of HUD and practiced affordable housing development and finance law at the firm of Latham & Watkins. He also has served on the board of commissioners of the Boulder Housing Partners, as chair of the board of Boulder County Advocates for Transitional Housing and on the board of directors of Thistle Communities. Davidson's scholarship and teaching focuses on affordable housing, community development, sustainability in housing and land use, and related issues.

"While we will miss Nestor's enormous contributions to the law school during his leave of absence in Washington, we understand the importance of his service to the administration and the country," said David Getches, dean of the law school. "His expertise is perfect for this position."

Davidson is the second CU-Boulder law professor to join President Obama's administration. Last month, Philip J. Weiser was appointed deputy assistant attorney general for international, policy and appellate matters at the U.S. Department of Justice's Antitrust Division.