Michael Monte (Champlain Housing Trust)
Overview
Michael Monte is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Champlain Housing Trust (CHT), one of the largest community land trusts in the United States. With over 40 years of experience in community and economic development, Monte has played a significant role in advancing affordable housing initiatives in Vermont. He joined the leadership team of CHT in 2007 and became CEO in January 2021. His notable achievements include spearheading numerous affordable housing projects and being a pivotal figure in integrating permanent affordability into housing policy in Vermont. He is also recognized for his leadership and contributions to addressing homelessness and supporting community development efforts.
Recent Developments
In the past two years, Michael Monte's work with the Champlain Housing Trust has been notably impactful:
- January 2023: CHT received a $20 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, which is the largest contribution in its history. This grant will be used to advance the development and stewardship of permanently affordable homes and related community assets.
- 2023: Under Monte's leadership, CHT converted several motels into permanent housing solutions during the COVID-19 pandemic. This innovative approach served as a model nationwide for rapid housing solutions.
- April 2025: The Bay Ridge development project, which Monte helped to initiate, broke ground. The $55 million project aims to provide almost 100 permanently affordable homes and apartments in Shelburne, Vermont, addressing regional housing shortages.
- March 2025: Monte's collaboration with state and national housing leaders led to strategic discussions on expanding shared equity homeownership programs across Vermont.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michael Monte |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Chief Executive Officer |
| Known For | Affordable housing and community development |
| Education | Bachelor of Arts from Goddard College |
| Net Worth | Not publicly available |
Early Life and Education
Michael Monte was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, into a close-knit Italian family. His father, a mason, and his mother, a housewife, instilled values of hard work and community in him from a young age. Monte attended Jesuit high school, which influenced his philosophy on life, service, and community. He initially attended SUNY Oswego before leaving to explore hands-on community work. Monte later completed his Bachelor of Arts in Community Development at Goddard College while balancing work commitments, exemplifying his commitment to adult education and community service.
Career and Notable Achievements
Michael Monte's career spans several decades, marked by significant contributions to affordable housing and community development:
- 2007: Joined the Champlain Housing Trust as COO and CFO, playing a crucial role in its growth and strategic direction.
- 2016: Awarded the Con Hogan Award for Creative, Entrepreneurial, Community Leadership for his innovative work in community development.
- 2021: Appointed CEO of CHT, succeeding Brenda Torpy, and strengthened the trust's national impact.
- Championed Projects: Led initiatives like the Harbor Place conversion, transforming temporary shelters into permanent supportive housing.
- National Influence: As a board member of National NeighborWorks Association, he continues to shape national housing policies.
Current Work and Impact
As of 2025, Michael Monte continues to lead the Champlain Housing Trust with vision and determination. Under his leadership, CHT not only addresses immediate housing needs through innovative programs but also influences housing policy at the state and national levels. Monte advocates for permanent affordability in housing, ensuring long-term stability and community building. His work continues to inspire housing activists nationwide and pave the way for sustainable development models.
Conclusion
Michael Monte's contributions to affordable housing and community development have made significant impacts locally and nationally. His commitment to integrating permanent affordability into housing policies and his innovative solutions to housing crises set a benchmark for future developments. As he continues his work, Monte's influence is likely to persist, ensuring that more communities can access affordable, stable housing solutions.