I have an extensive planning education, possessing a Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Planning and Design from Ball State University. I also have a minor in Political Science. In addition to these qualifications, I have completed my Master’s Degree in Urban Planning and Public Policy at the University of Illinois Chicago, with a minor in Community Development.

            Along with my planning education, I also have planning internship experience with a non-profit community development organization in Muncie, Indiana. In this role, I did neighborhood surveys, organized and moderated community meetings, and helped neighborhood beautification efforts. My work at this CDC helped foster my interest in community development work. I was able to see real improvements to the neighborhood as a direct result of my work. I also have experience working for the Muncie Land Bank in the same neighborhood. This involved using vacant land surveys to identify redevelopment opportunities for local residents. In addition to this experience, I was also an assistant editor for a political science journal, Public Opinion Quarterly, while also running the journal’s social media.

I am extremely passionate about improving the city I live in for all its residents, and I believe that planning is the best way to do this. My interest in community development and improving neighborhoods for all their residents has continued to grow with my planning education. I believe that Urban Planning is one of the best ways to improve people’s lives and their cities, and I am very excited about continuing to do this as a planner.