Grand Opening Celebration Highlights
On November 19, Wallick joined with community partners, elected officials and the broader community to celebrate the grand opening of Dr. Violet T. Lewis Village, a new $29.3 million affordable senior apartment community in Detroit, Michigan.
Wallick is the co-developer and co-owner of the community in partnership with Presbyterian Villages of Michigan (PVM), who will manage the 105-unit development.

Pictured: Amy Albery, Wallick CEO
Wallick’s CEO, Amy Albery, shared remarks alongside community partners, project advocates, and notable guests, including:
- Roger Myers, President & CEO, Presbyterian Villages of Michigan
- The Honorable Mike Duggan, Mayor, City of Detroit
- The Honorable Angela Whitfield Calloway, Detroit City Council Member (District 2)
- Jason Friedman, Director of Public Private Partnerships, City of Detroit
- Victoria Westbrooks, Executive Office Manager, Office of Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield
- The Honorable Regina Weiss, Michigan State Representative (District 5)
- Anthony Amoroso, Michigan State Housing Development Authority
- Dr. Violet Ponders, Granddaughter of Dr. Violet T. Lewis
- Ms. Sondra Bradfield, Eta Phi Beta Sorority
- Dr. Kartessa Bell, Gamma Phi Delta Sorority, Inc.
- Reverend Dr. Louis J. Prues, Board Chair, Presbyterian Villages of Michigan
- Kisha Martin, daughter of a future resident of Dr. Violet T. Lewis Village
- Pastor Doug Harris, Prayer House Church
- Alexis Dunfee, Senior Vice President of Development, Wallick
The celebration brought together family of Dr. Violet T. Lewis, members of both sororities founded at the Lewis College of Business (Eta Phi Beta and Gamma Phi Delta) and future residents eager to call the community home.

Pictured: Mayor Mike Duggan, City of Detroit
Standout moments included remarks from Kisha Martin, daughter of an incoming resident at Dr. Violet T. Lewis Village, who reflected on her personal experience working with the supportive onsite community team, praising their clarity, reassurance and guidance through the application process. Dr. Violet Ponders, Sondra Bradfield and Dr. Kartessa Bell shared further insights about the legacy of Dr. Violet T. Lewis and the Lewis College of Business.
About Dr. Violet T. Lewis Village
Dr. Violet T. Lewis Village is located on the site of the former Lewis College of Business, Michigan’s only Historically Black College and University (HBCU), honoring founder Dr. Lewis’ legacy and her commitment to empowerment through education. The community features 105 units with a mix of studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments across three buildings. Two historic structures from the original campus have been rehabilitated with 32 units, while a new four-story building adds 73 additional units.

Pictured: Dr. Violet Ponders, granddaughter of Dr. Violet T. Lewis
This transformational development was made possible through the vital partnership of Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), the City of Detroit, The Kresge Foundation, Merchants Capital, Security Bank, First Merchants Bank, Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis, RDL Architects and Giffels Webster.
Alongside these contributions, the project also benefited from important program-level support. Special thanks to the Detroit Housing Commission (DHC) and Felicia Burriss, Director of the Housing Choice Voucher Program. DHC supported the 9% project with 5 project-based vouchers through a competitive selection process.
Features & Amenities
Dr. Violet T. Lewis Village features a range of modern amenities, including fitness and community spaces, on-site property management and a business/computer space.

Pictured: Kisha Martin, family member of incoming resident
Apartment homes include:
- Energy Star-rated appliances and ceiling fans
- Luxury vinyl flooring
- Window treatments
- Patios or balconies
The development is 100% affordable, with apartment rents ranging from 30% to 80% of area median income, ensuring seniors across income levels have access to safe, quality housing.
A defining theme throughout the event was the power of preserving history while building for the future.
Wallick is thrilled to Open Doors to Homes, Opportunities and Hope for residents while celebrating the lasting legacy of Dr. Violet T. Lewis and the Lewis College of Business.
Check out a recording of the event here. Additional coverage from Crain’s Detroit Business can be found here.

Speakers, community partners and supporters officially cut the ribbon for Dr. Violet T. Lewis Village.