Habitat for Humanity NYC and Westchester names Sibilia board chair as organization advances affordable homeownership across the region

Brooklyn, NY Habitat for Humanity New York City and Westchester County has appointed Kirsten Sibilia as chair of its board of directors. An affordable housing advocate, Sibilia will work alongside CEO Sabrina Lippman and the expanded board to help advance Habitat’s mission of keeping homeownership within reach for more New Yorkers across New York City and Westchester County.

Sibilia is a partner at Dattner Architects, where she manages the practice, working across affordable housing and other community-focused projects, including public schools, parks, libraries and subway stations. Her work is rooted in Dattner’s approach to “essential architecture,” with a focus on thoughtful design, community impact and creating places that serve New Yorkers and their neighborhoods.

“I believe that housing is a fundamental human right, and we have to be advocating for it,” said Sibilia. “Affordable homeownership is foundational for people building a life. It provides a level of stability and the opportunity to build equity, and the resulting sense of security is transformative for a family. The particular niche that Habitat plays in the robust ecosystem of affordable housing is incredibly important, and I want to be part of that work and lend my energy to it.”

Her connection to Habitat dates back to 2010, when she joined Dattner Architects. The firm had recently designed the Atlantic Avenue Residences in Brooklyn, which was Habitat’s largest development at the time. Sibilia also has a family connection to Habitat, as her father volunteered with the organization. She has served on the board since 2022.

As board Chair, Sibilia will focus on strengthening board engagement, deepening its understanding of housing policy and expanding Habitat’s connections across the affordable housing community. She also sees opportunities to build on Habitat’s work through accessory dwelling units, public-private-nonprofit partnerships, and housing models that respond to the different needs and scales of communities across New York City and Westchester County.

“I think Accessory Dwelling Units are an important new way for Habitat to contribute to today’s housing challenge, and I’m really excited about that,” Sibilia said. “I also believe that Westchester County presents a real opportunity for sweat-equity housing that aligns with a more traditional Habitat model that many people are familiar with. We need housing at all different scales, including two-family buildings, and there are opportunities to be part of communities outside of New York City proper and help them address the housing crisis.”

“Kirsten brings a deep understanding of affordable housing, community-focused design and the broader housing ecosystem, along with a longstanding connection to Habitat and our work,” said Lippman. “Her perspective will be invaluable as we continue to grow our impact, create and preserve permanently affordable homeownership opportunities and help more working-class New Yorkers put down roots, build stability and invest in their communities.”

Sibilia succeeds Anthony Montalto, who is stepping down as board chair and will continue to serve on Habitat’s board of directors. During his tenure as chair, Montalto helped guide Habitat through an important period of growth, supporting the organization’s work to expand access to affordable homeownership, strengthen its presence across New York City and Westchester County, and advance major housing and community initiatives.

“Anthony’s leadership and commitment have helped shape Habitat into the organization it is today, and we are incredibly grateful for the time, energy, and expertise he has dedicated to our mission,” Lippman said. “We are fortunate that he will remain an important part of the Habitat community as Kirsten takes on this new leadership role.”

“Serving as board chair has given me the extraordinary opportunity to work alongside people who share a deep commitment to making homeownership possible for more New Yorkers,” said Montalto. “I’m incredibly proud of what Habitat has accomplished and the foundation we have built for its continued growth. Kirsten understands both the challenges facing New York’s housing landscape and the tremendous opportunity ahead. I look forward to supporting her, Sabrina, and the entire Habitat team as we continue this important work.” He will be honored at the Habitat House Party this November,

Together with Habitat NYC and Westchester’s board of directors and leadership team, Sibilia will help guide the organization’s continued work to create and preserve permanently affordable homeownership opportunities, strengthen communities, and make homeownership possible for more New Yorkers.