Area of study
Master of Urban and Regional Planning
Concentration: Housing and community development

Why did you join the program?
I am passionate about ending homelessness and creating fair and healthy local food systems in Iowa.

For over a decade I've worked with community organizations to implement programs that help people access healthy food and decent housing, and while my jobs have been mostly boots-on-the-ground, I've always been energized by the process of learning about and advocating for change at a systems level.

I'm studying urban planning so I can shift to a career that allows me to focus on comprehensive change. I want to make sure community voices are represented in the process.

What advice would you give to someone considering joining this program?
As a non-traditional student with a young family, the choice to return to school was a big one! I would encourage anyone considering a similar move to take the next step! There are so many opportunities to connect with incredible minds and feel supported in achieving your goals.

What is a fun fact about you?
In my early 20's I had a small turkey business called "A Bird of Courage LLC" named after the famous quote by Benjamin Franklin about the national bird. I raised non-GMO heritage breed turkeys and sold them to families for Thanksgiving.