Trevor Sippel has received the 2025–2026 American Planning Association (APA) Outstanding Student Award from the University of Iowa School of Planning and Public Affairs (SPPA).

The APA Outstanding Student Award is presented annually to one student selected by each accredited urban planning program in the United States. The award recognizes exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to the planning profession.

According to his nomination letter, “Trevor exemplifies the intellectual curiosity, aptitude for learning and applying new skills, and dedication to urban planning that we strive to cultivate in all of our students.” 

Throughout his graduate studies, Trevor demonstrated academic excellence through coursework, research, and applied learning experiences. His accomplishments include maintaining a strong academic record while completing significant projects in urban planning and public policy.

Trevor demonstrated exceptional leadership and planning expertise through his work on the West Branch Comprehensive Plan Update capstone project. He served in a leadership role on a team of seven students and stepped into a project management position midway through the academic year. He also led the analysis and writing of the plan’s Economic Development chapter and contributed to several other key project components, including community surveys, population projections, and future land-use mapping.

In addition to his academic and project work, Trevor actively contributed to the learning of other students at the University of Iowa. He served as a teaching assistant for undergraduate and graduate courses during his master's studies in SPPA. He credits these experiences helping him to grow as a communicator and instructor inside and outside of the classroom. 

Across his academic, instructional, and leadership roles, Trevor has promoted collaboration, advocated for student and community interests, and contributed to a culture of fairness, innovation, and service.

Faculty members believe Trevor is well positioned to become a leader in the planning profession. In summer 2025, he completed an internship with the City of Cedar Rapids and, following graduation, has been hired to continue serving the community as a planner.

The School of Planning and Public Affairs congratulates Trevor on this well-deserved recognition and thanks the American Planning Association for its continued support of emerging planning professionals across the country.