BOSTON — United Way of Massachusetts Bay has named WinnDevelopment Chairman Larry Curtis as the 2026 recipient of the Norman B. Leventhal/Edwin N. Sidman Real Estate & Building Industry Leadership Award, recognizing his contributions to community development, affordable housing, and philanthropy across Massachusetts.
Curtis received the award during a United Way celebration Monday evening, becoming the 21st honoree in the history of the award. He was introduced at the event by Juana Matias, secretary of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.
United Way officials said the award recognizes industry leaders whose professional accomplishments and community involvement have created lasting impact throughout the region.
“Larry’s vision for development across our region has shown how existing properties can be transformed into dynamic, livable communities that also expand affordable housing,” said Marty Martinez, president and CEO of United Way Massachusetts Bay. “Larry’s leadership at WinnCompanies exemplifies how the public, private and nonprofit sectors can come together in meaningful collaboration.”
Curtis, a licensed architect and longtime leader in affordable housing development, has led the development arm of WinnCompanies for four decades. He is also a lecturer in real estate at the Harvard Graduate School of Design.
In remarks following the recognition, Curtis emphasized the importance of relationships and collaboration throughout his career.
“My ability to make an impact has come from the people I have met, the friends I have made, and the trusted relationships we have built together through our shared interest in the well-being of our communities,” Curtis said. “The quality of the personal and professional network that you build during life will always sustain you.”
Industry leaders attending the event praised Curtis for his role in advancing affordable housing and sustainable development practices.
“Larry has been the engine powering WinnDevelopment’s mission, consistently championing affordability as both a social responsibility and a smart business practice,” said Michael Putziger, chairman of the board of WinnCompanies. “Our innovations in energy sustainability, historic tax credits and layered financing can all be traced back to Larry’s expertise.”
United Way also highlighted Curtis’ early leadership in helping shape the organization’s Real Estate Committee and its broader partnership strategy with the building and development industry.
Additional speakers honoring Curtis included Jerold Kayden, founding director of the Master in Real Estate Program at Harvard University Graduate School of Design, and Greg Vasil, CEO of the Greater Boston Real Estate Board.
Since 1994, the real estate and building industry has raised more than $55 million to support United Way of Massachusetts Bay initiatives. The nonprofit organization, which has operated in Greater Boston for more than 90 years, works with civic leaders, businesses, and community organizations to address issues related to housing, education, financial stability, and public health across Eastern Massachusetts.
