Michelle DellaVita: Greater Monadnock Collaborative

Jul 15, 2024 | Business Spotlights, MONAD-TALKS

a passion for community

A masterful collaborator, accomplished community builder, and servant leader, Michelle DellaVita joins Luca Paris CEO of the Greater Monadnock Collaborative for a passionate and energizing MonadTalk! 

Michelle DellaVita is the Director of Development and Community Engagement at Greater Monadnock. Having lived in New Hampshire since elementary school, Michelle came to the Monadnock Region over 30 years ago as a freshman at Keene State. Like so many do, Michelle fell in love with the area and now is proud to live, work, and raise her family here. 

Before her work in the nonprofit world, she was manager of a human resources comp and benefits program with a local organization she’d been with for 22 years. The position was coming to an end and Michelle knew whatever she did next, she wanted to make a difference in the region! 

She loves the community and connection in the Monadnock area, and her transition knew she wanted to foster this even more! 

Michelle’s DNA all but screams community, which is why her role here at Greater Monadnock is a perfect fit. 

What Does a Director of Development and Community Engagement Do? 

Michelle works with members (and not yet members) to support businesses and organizations in the region. She works to deeply understand what their needs are so she can offer: 

  • Resources
  • Make connections
  • Introduce collaborations and partnerships 
  • And relationship-building 

Michelle inspires our members to be part of and take ownership of the vision as we continue to grow. 

Michelle’s known for asking businesses and organizations, “How do you want to show up in the community?” 

Every organization has different wants and needs, it’s never a one-size-fits-all! Michelle takes the time to listen and discover what they’re looking for so we can best serve and support you as a Chamber. 

The other piece of Michelle’s role is in development, in which she promotes the Monadnock Region to live, work, and of course, play! Rooted in a deep commitment and investment in our area, she helps to creatively identify ways to attract and retain people who want to contribute and get connected in our community. 

She also helps keep young people engaged through initiatives such as Leadership Monadnock a longstanding program designed to connect leaders through the local region. Leadership Monadnock encourages collaboration, diversity, and vitality as they work to enhance the quality of life in our gem of an area. 

It’s a phenomenal opportunity for personal and professional growth for entrepreneurs and leaders. The Fall 2025 program will begin accepting applications in Spring 2025. 

In addition to working for the Greater Monadnock Collaborative, Michelle also serves on the board of the Monadnock United Way and loves contributing and connecting with people, organizations, and businesses!

Michelle’s favorite part of the Monadnock Region

All of it!

She shares it’s the most special place she’s ever been with a welcoming, inviting, warm vibe and a desire to always be growing, changing, and deepening our understanding of its rich and unique history. 

In her free time, Michelle loves kayaking, enjoying local restaurants, and spending time with her family. 

Michelle believes there are endless opportunities to do great work together and is beyond excited to be a part of the talented Greater Monadnock Collaborative team! 

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CONNECT WITH michelle!

Having so much FUN diving deeper into our incredible region by getting to know our people, organizations, businesses, and communities even better. Learning from our members and not-yet-members is key to her role. There are endless opportunities to do great work together. Michelle’s beyond excited to be on this adventure with the talented Greater Monadnock Collaborative team!

PASSIONATE advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, growth mindsets, leadership development for all, spirituality, and self-compassion 💗

Links to connect: Email | LinkedIn 

CONNECT with Luca Paris, Greater Monadnock Collaborative CEO

Driven by a calling to foster community connections, Luca Paris transitioned from an award-winning chef to the President and CEO of the Greater Monadnock Collaborative. Since September 2021, he’s been at the forefront of regional development, championing initiatives that spotlight the Monadnock Region as a hub for culture and industry. His leadership has earned him a spot among NH’s 200 Most Influential Leaders in 2023.

Previously, Luca was the celebrated chef and owner of Luca’s Mediterranean Café, renowned for its exceptional dining experience in Keene, NH. His culinary expertise and vibrant personality have graced various media platforms, including his radio show and cooking segments on local TV. A staunch community supporter, Luca’s journey is marked by his passion for culinary arts and his commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent.

For a detailed journey, connect with Luca Paris on LinkedIn.

Website | Email: luca@greatermonadnock.com | Phone: 603.352.1303

Written by: Emily Aborn | Creative Content Solutions at Emily Aborn Consulting 

Magically Created by: Lindsey Masterson | Website Designer at Cheetah Design Studio