As a community planner, I operate under a paradigm that values community knowledge and experience. This requires critical considerations related to the process by which I approach research, advocacy, and design. It also requires relationship building, trust, and time. I believe that we have a responsibility to engage and create with the communities we work with- especially populations that historically have been left out of the planning process. We are also responsible for understanding the functionality of the regional cultural landscapes we work within and cycles of change.

I am interested in social and ecological interventions that will respond to environmental and human needs, address issues of justice, and guide our cities to function in a more humane manner. Developing new systems and methods that facilitate partnerships and community decision-making are necessary to foster resiliency, environmental and cultural sustainability, and place identity.

Planning is a complex multidisciplinary field where architecture, social studies, health, and many other facets intersect. Even if you decide to focus on one piece of the puzzle, you must understand that piece in greater context.