Hope Schmeltzer

Hope Schmeltzer is a partner with the land use and environmental law firm of Monchamp Meldrum LLP. She specializes in permitting and land use approvals for clean energy and infrastructure projects, helping the transition to a carbon-free and clean energy future.

Hope previously spent 20 years in government service, as the Chief Counsel of the California Coastal Commission, the Environmental Group Leader for the University of California, Office of General Counsel and an Assistant Regional Counsel for US EPA Region 9. She also served for 12 years as the public member of San Francisco's Local Agency Formation Commission. She has volunteered at SFUSD's Balboa High School Law Academy, is a judge for the American Bar Association's National Moot Court Competition, an active San Francisco food bank volunteer, and a member of the Lawyer's Committee on Civil Rights. She has also coordinated learning opportunities for legal professionals regarding equity and justice issues in environmental, land use and energy law.

Hope is passionate about Drew's mission to develop a student generation who will have the understanding and skills to build a more equitable and sustainable future. Hope strongly believes in Drew's wide-ranging curriculum and dedication to experiential learning that enables students to connect intellectually in unique and enduring ways. Hope is inspired by how Drew helps students to find their identity and voice, giving students the confidence and space to try and succeed at new things, both in and out of the classroom.

Hope graduated from the Georgetown University Law Center cum laude and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan. Her son Isaac, Drew class of 2025, is an active part of the Drew theater community and robotics team. Hope and her family enjoy travel, exploring the Bay Area, many outdoor sports and are always up for a new adventure.