Pronouns: She/her
Focus of study: Economic Development and Energy Policy
Year started in program: 2022
Biography:
Urban Planning interests me because of the field's ability to implement physical changes that better serve the futures of communities. I am most interested in building lively streets that fulfill community needs as mixed use neighborhoods while integrating climate mitigation strategies into city infrastructure decisions. Previous to starting the MURP program at PSU, I worked for the State of Minnesota on utility regulation and found that the most economically disadvantaged members of my community had the most inefficient service and paid the highest rates for electricity, water and natural gas. I'd like to be a planner that removes economic disadvantages like these, creates "third places" for public gathering and builds green buildings that can help mitigate climate change. Being an urban planner allows me to combine my interests in community development while solving complex problems on affordability and sustainability.
Favorite Urban Place: Chicago 606, New York City Highline and Minneapolis Chain of Lakes. Any urban green space that's well loved with mixed uses is a place I want to be.
In my free time I love exploring small towns and finding local spots! You'll find me on out on a hike or cross country skiing with a well deserved stop for a beverage or ice cream before heading back to Portland. I'm a huge planner for my social life and love planning a fun weekend trip in the gorge or the mountains.
Dream for Portland 2050: I hope Portland is a place that promotes affordable ways to live, invests in community oriented streets that support socialization, human connection and small business development and creates green infrastructure that is wind and solar powered for a cleaner climate.