Internship Opportunity - City of Virginia Beach Public Works Department

From the City of Virginia Beach:

"City of Virginia Beach

Summer Internship for Students

 Department of Public Works

Summary: 

The City of Virginia Beach Department of Public Works Internship Program is designed to recruit diverse college students majoring in Public Administration, Government, Political Science or related field.  The program provides viable full-time work experiences during the summer that assist students in making connections between textbook knowledge and real world experiences. 

Position Description: 

Compile statistical data into routine reports; prepare basic informational reports in support of the director and administrative staff; participate in division or department projects by researching or providing relevant information; assist in the budget process by providing performance measure reports on departmental or divisional operations; and conduct research in order to gather information and data needed to correctly analyze division or department projects.

Minimum Qualifications: 

Candidates must possess a valid Virginia or North Carolina Driver’s license.  Must have basic knowledge of public administration or business administration theories and practices and be able to use basic Microsoft applications (word, excel, PowerPoint, etc.).  Students can be enrolled in either an undergraduate or master program in public administration, business administration, or management or related field.

Work Hours: 

Candidates will work a 40 hour internship between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday for approximately 12 weeks (May 14, 2012 – August 3, 2012).  Normal work hours may vary depending on the position.  Flexibility for school schedules is allowable.  The applicant is responsible to provide their own transportation to work and housing during the summer internship.

Compensation:  Paid Internship

Application Procedure: 

All interested applicants should e-mail a resume, cover letter and transcripts (unofficial is acceptable) to Susan L. Perry, Public Works, at pwinternship@vbgov.com.  Incomplete applications will not be considered for the internship program.  Interviews will be scheduled for qualified applicants during the weeks of March 5th-16th.  References may be requested at time of interview. If you have any questions regarding this posting, please contact Susan Perry at (757) 385-1355 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Application Deadline:    February 15, 2012

Note:  The individuals selected will be employed through a temporary services agency and assigned to the City of Virginia Beach.  A drug test and criminal background check, performed by this agency, is required before employment.  Interns must also provide a recent DMV driving record prior to employment.

The City of Virginia Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, religion, national origin, race, disability or political affiliation."

Hampton Roads Section Meeting 16 Feb 2012

APA Virginia presents “Retrofitting the American Dream,” recently featured at the 2011 APA Virginia Conference…Come join us for a presentation of strategies for making our suburban communities more sustainable.

Thursday, February 16, 11:45 – 1:30 PM

Free Admission and Lunch Included

CM Credits Pending

Newport News Marriott at City Center 
740 Town Center Drive
 Newport News, Virginia 23606

Speakers: Walt Cole, PLA, LEED AP, Director of Planning, Clark Nexsen David Taylor, PLA, Planner, Clark Nexsen Linda Woods, AICP, LEED AP BD+C,  Planner Clark Nexsen William Hudgins, President and CEO, Harvey Lindsay Development

Seating Limited—RSVP by February 10 to hamptonroads@apavirginia.org or Joseph Curtis at (757) 466-9622

Sponsors: Clark Nexsen and Harvey Linsday Corporate Services

Beyond Granite Design Competition Announced

From the National Capital Planning Commission:

"The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), in cooperation with the General Services Administration (GSA), is sponsoring a design competition for a new temporary outdoor commemorative installation in Washington, DC with the goal of enhancing a prominent but underutilized public space in the city’s monumental
core while fostering a public dialogue regarding the nature of commemoration in the nation’s capital."  Read more

VAPDC Winter Conference in Richmond from Feb 9-10, 2012

From the Virginia Association of Planning District Commissions:

"Once again, VAPDC is partnering with VML and VACo to be part of VML-VACo Legislative Day on February 9. The VAPDC Winter Conference will kick off Thursday evening with dinner at Center Stage in downtown Richmond.

VAPDC is pleased to have Bob Sledd, Senior Economic Advisor to the Governor and Mary Rae Carter, Deputy Secretary for Rural Economic Development participate in the evening and offer their perspectives on the Commonwealth's economic development efforts.

Click here for the conference agenda and details."

Job Opportunity

Senior Planner (2 positions) and Planner II, Triangle J Council of Governments, Durham, NC

DOWNLOAD APPLICATIONS tjcog.dst.nc.us

Home Site Map Triangle J Council of Governments :: P O Box 12276 :: Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 :: Tel: 919.549.0551 :: Fax: 919.549.9390 ©2008-2012 by Triangle J Council of Governments. All rights reserved in all media....

Job Oppty: Rideshare Coordinator - Northern Virginia

From the Dulles Area Transportation Association:

"DATA (Dulles Area Transportation Association) has an innovative part-time Rideshare Coordinator position available at Northern Virginia's Dulles International Airport.  A complete job description, qualifications and salary range can be found on DATA's website, www.datatrans.org."

Job Oppty: Events Assistant for WABA

From the Washington Area Bicyclists Association:

"Events Assistant
The Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) is seeking an Events Assistant to help develop, coordinate and implement our annual fundraiser, BikeFest. The Events Assistant will be working closely with WABA’s Events Coordinator to grow the event from last year’s success. Additionally, the Events Assistant will contribute to other WABA events that occur during the spring biking season."  Read more

Derek Hyra Elected Chair of the Board of Commissioners for the Alexandria Redev & Housing Authority

Derek Hyra, associate professor in Virginia Tech’s Urban Affairs and Planning Program, has been elected to a one-year term as chair of the board of commissioners for the Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority, a public agency that provides affordable housing in the City of Alexandria. Hyra, who lives and works in Alexandria, Va., has served as a commissioner of the Authority since 2009 and became vice chair in 2011.

Read more

WRIR Podcast on the Dillon Rule with @UAPVirginiaTech’s Jesse Richardson

Virginia Tech’s Jesse Richardson was interviewed this past week on WRIR 97.3FM’s Open Source radio program on Dillon’s Rule.  

Listen to the podcast at http://richmondpublicradio.org/2012/01/27/podcast-marijuana-laws-in-va-the-dillon-rule-and-blight-in-richmond/.

Call for Papers on "Reducing Urban Poverty"

From the University Partnerships Clearinghouse:

"To encourage a new generation of urban policymakers and to promote early career research, USAID's Urban Programs Team, International Housing Coalition (IHC), World Bank, Woodrow Wilson Center's Comparative Urban Studies Project (CUSP), and Cities Alliance are co-sponsoring a third annual paper competition. The competition seeks paper submissions for an upcoming policy workshop and paper competition on urban poverty in the developing world. Winning papers will be published and selected authors will present their papers in a policy workshop to be held in Washington, D.C., in October 2012. The grand prize winner will also present at the World Urban Forum in September, 2012 in Naples, Italy.

Papers must be linked to one of the following sub-topics:

·         Land markets.

·         Climate change.

·         Youth.

Papers should be policy-based and solutions-oriented and should critically examine existing projects and/or propose new strategies for tackling issues related to urban poverty. Papers from a variety of disciplinary and/or interdisciplinary perspectives are appropriate, including (but not limited to): urban planning, economics, political science, geography, public policy, sociology, environment, and anthropology.

This call for papers is directed at Ph.D. students and advanced masters degree students. To be eligible, applicants should be currently enrolled in a degree or post-doctoral program. Interested applicants must submit an abstract (500-word maximum limit) and a brief CV to the selection committee by February 20, 2012.

To learn more about this call for papers, including eligibility requirements and details on abstract submission, please visit us online at www.oup.org/news/whatsnew.asp?id=787."

Sustainability Scholarships Available

From the Cabell Brand Center:

"The Cabell Brand Center for Global Poverty and Resource Sustainability Studies is offering six scholarships in 2012 to college students interested in volunteer programs. Application deadline is March 1, 2012. 

Application information is posted on the Cabell Brand Center website: http://www.cabellbrandcenter.org and/or application material can directly be downloaded from:

http://www.cabellbrandcenter.org/Downloads/Scholarship_Folder.pdf"

Public Knowledge Journal: Call for Papers on Public Health

Public Knowledge Journal is now accepting papers for Volume 4 Issue 1 on the topic of Public Health. Public health in this call is broadly defined and may include topical areas such as public health research, economic influences on public health, the local and organic food movements, and the role of development aid in targeted populations. 

The extended call for papers is posted at http://pkjournal.org/?page_id=354. We encourage submissions from graduate students of all disciplines in order to approach the topic from a variety of perspectives. Papers submission closes on February 10, 2012.

Additionally, PKJ is seeking interested graduate students who are interested to contribute scholarly book reviews in all areas that focus on public policy and administration [federal, state & local, and non-profit].  If you are interested in writing a book review, please contact Stacey Shindelar, Book Review Editor, directly at sshindelar@vt.edu.

Public Knowledge is a multidisciplinary, graduate student-run electronic journal hosted by the Center for Digital Discourse and Culture at Virginia Tech (ISSN 1948-3511). The journal began in 2008 with the goal of using a variety of communication technologies to develop scholarly conversations about topics in the public interest. 

The journal welcomes contributions of articles for peer review, as well as book reviews, essays, interviews, blogs, and other multimedia works. Authors also retain the rights to their work.

Contributors questions about potential submissions or about the submission process should be sent to editor@pkjournal.org.

2012 Public Lands Transportation Scholars Program

From the Eno Center for Transportation:

"Applications are now being accepted for the 2012 Public Lands Transportation Scholars Program - Click here to apply.

The Eno Center for Transportation is proud to partner with The Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in Parks Technical Assistance Center (TRIPTAC) on the Public Lands Transportation Scholars Program. TRIPTAC is looking for recent master and doctoral graduates in transportation-related disciplines to apply to become part of the Public Lands Transportation Scholar Program.

Assignments will begin in late June, 2012 and will last 10 months through April, 2013. Projects can involve Transit/Engineering, Landscape Architecture, Environmental Engineering/Planning and other transportation-related tasks.

The selected Scholars will be considered employees of the Western Transportation Institute, Montana State University and will receive a salary of $30,000 plus benefits for their 10-month assignment as well as reimbursement of relocation costs.

*Selected scholars must be available for the pre-project orientation June 4-8, 2012 in Denver, CO.

Who Should Apply
This program is open to recent (1-3 years post graduation) master and doctoral graduates in transportation related-disciplines who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the United States.

How to Apply
Applicants are required to submit packets consisting of:

• The Application Cover Sheet. Click here to download
• Resume
• Statement of interest (no more than 1000 words).
• Letter of recommendation from a current or past supervisor, an academic advisor, or other person who can attest to your knowledge and skills.

(Applications are only eligible if they include ALL the above material)

2012 Scholar Assignments
(Detailed descriptions are...provided at http://www.enotrans.org)

• San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Complex
• Sabino Canyon Recreation Area
• Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge
• North Moab Recreation Areas

Completed application packets must be received by 5:00 pm EST on March 9, 2012

Send application packets to:
Eno Center for Transportation
Attn: Melissa Paradis
1250 I Street, NW, Suite 750
Washington, DC 20005

Applications may also be emailed to (mparadis@enotrans.org).

Questions?
Contact Melissa Paradis of the Eno Staff at mparadis@enotrans.org."

Feb 14 Info Session in OT Alex for Prospective Graduate Degrees in Urban Planning

Please share with others you know who may be interested

2012 Graduate School Information Sessions
Download the flyer here

Outstanding faculty/Small classes/Evening classes for part time students

February 14, April 3, May 15, August 7,
October 16, and November 13

1021 Prince Street
Second Floor
Alexandria, VA 22314

6 p.m. for Masters programs

7 p.m. for Ph.D. programs

Masters of Public and International Affairs/Masters of Public Administration/
Masters of Urban and Regional Planning

Ph.D. in Public Administration and Policy
Ph.D. in Planning and Global Governance

To RSVP and for more information email: SPIAAlexandria@vt.edu

Two New Sustainability Modules for Spring 2012 (Must Register by 1/23)

Greetings everyone. In light of shifting enrollment patterns and to better accommodate schedules, especially for those of you working full or part time, we are offering two NEW modules on sustainability, but you must register for either one of them by next week’s registration deadline.

The first module is March 2nd/3rd and will focus on the environmental policy foundations of sustainability communities with a special emphasis on green infrastructure, climate change planning, and area wide brownfields revitalization.

The second module is March 30th and 31st and will examine regional sustainability planning, with a special focus on the preliminary activities of HUD’s Regional Sustainability grantees. I will be teaching both modules and I anticipate having guest speakers to join us for both modules. Each module is independent of the other, meaning you do not need to take both, you can take just one.

Please share with other VT students. Let me know if you have any questions.

FYI….we anticipate these courses will be up on Hokie Spa sometime in the next 24-48 hours…so keep looking for them


Joseph Schilling, Associate Director
Sustainable Communities
Vacant Properties Research Initiative
Metropolitan Institute at Virginia Tech
Professor and Program Coordinator
Urban Affairs & Planning Program--Alexandria

Jan 20 Webinar on Social Media Strategies: Using, Organizing, Monitoring and Responding

From the American Planning Association:

"Please join APA on January 20 for "Social Media Strategies: Using, Organizing, Monitoring and Responding," the final webinar in Communications Boot Camp. Learn what social media tools are available to your organization and how both supporters and critics of planning are employing social media nationwide. Register now to reserve your spot...

Presenters include Mary Beth Ikard, Communications Director at the Nashville MPO; Mittie Rooney from Axiom Communications Group; Robin Rather of Collective Strength; and Randy Simes, founder of the blog UrbanCincy. You will leave this presentation with actionable advice on implementing a social media strategy in your community and monitoring online chatter about planning.

This and all Communications Boot Camp resources are freely available to APA members. Communications Boot Camp does not offer CM credit."

Register at http://www.planning.org/policy/communicationsbootcamp/

Jan 24: Federal Urban Design Workshop

From the National Capital Planning Commission:

The Federal Urban Design Workshop
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
6:30 - 8:00 PM

WHERE: National Capital Planning Commission
401 9th Street NW, Suite 500 North | Metro: Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter

"Share your ideas on how federal public spaces, buildings, and campuses throughout the region can be designed to be good neighbors and create a sense of place worthy of the nation's capital.

Your feedback will help us develop new urban design policies for the federal elements of the region's Comprehensive Plan.

The workshop is free and open to the public."
Learn more and register at http://www.ncpc.gov/urbandesign/

Call for Submissions for Two Awards Given by APA Econ Dev Division

Call for Submissions for Two Awards Given by the Economic Development Division of the APA

• For Communities: Donald E. Hunter Excellence In Economic Development Planning Award
• For Graduate Students: Economic Development Division Graduate Scholarship

Deadline for Both: February 10, 2012 (Friday)

DONALD E. HUNTER EXCELLENCE IN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLANNING AWARD
Deadline: Friday, February 10, 2012

The annual Donald E. Hunter Excellence in Economic Development Planning Award from the APA Economic Development Division is awarded to a community that shows innovation and success with an economic development plan or project. Award winners receive a plaque as well as recognition at the annual Division business meeting at the APA National Planning Conference and a featured article in the Division's newsletter, News & Views. Honorable Mentions have been awarded in the past as well.

Eligibility
Any economic development plan implemented in the United States or Canada within the last 10 years is eligible. Any member of the American Planning Association may make a nomination (except for the members of the Economic Development Division Executive Committee and Awards Committee, APA Board Members, and AICP Commissioners).

Submission Information
Please submit to the Chair of the Award Committee:

Julie Herlands
TischlerBise
4701 Sangamore Road, Suite S240
Bethesda, MD 20816
Email: julie@tischlerbise.com
Phone: (301) 320-6900, ext. 15
Applications can be submitted by email (preferred) or hard copy:

• Email to: julie@tischlerbise.com. Please indicate in the subject line: "[Your Jurisdiction] EDD Award Application."
• OR one hard copy to the above address.

For more information:
http://www.planning.org/divisions/economic/awards/

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIVISION GRADUATE SCHOLARSHIP
Deadline: Friday, February 10, 2012

Master's level students from PAB-accredited planning departments across the U.S. may apply. The $1,000 scholarship is awarded on the basis of a letter of recommendation from a full-time faculty member and an original paper or work having to do with a substantive and relevant topic related to economic development and planning. We prefer an article length or shorter paper submitted (not a thesis, although a shorter paper developed from the thesis is acceptable) of 2,000 to 2,500 words. The scholarship will be presented at the APA Conference in Los Angeles in April 2012 and the paper will be published in EDD's News & Views publication.

Submission Information
Please submit the application to:

John Provo, Ph.D., Associate Director
Office of Economic Development (0373)
Outreach and International Affairs
Virginia Tech
702 University City Blvd.
Blacksburg, VA 24061
jprovo@vt.edu

For more information:
http://www.planning.org/divisions/economic/scholarships

UAP's Sonia Hirt Named ISCE Senior Fellow

Hirt will focus on urban 
land use policy reform

BLACKSBURG, Va., Jan. 17, 2012 – Sonia Hirt, associate professor of urban affairs and planning and the School of Public and International Affairs in the College of Architecture and Urban Studies at Virginia Tech, is the first Institute for Society, Culture and Environment senior fellow, announces Karen A. Roberto, institute director.  Read more

White House Internships

Please see this message below from the Office of Public Engagement at the White House. The deadline for applications is next Sunday, January 22. Student can apply at www.whitehouse.gov/internship.

The deadline to apply for the White House Internship Program is January 22, 2012. Don’t miss out on this awesome opportunity to work at the White House.

Interns work in key offices like the Office of the Vice-President, the Office of the First Lady, Office of Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs and the Domestic Policy Council and get the chance to attend meetings with government officials, conduct research, staff events, and write memos. If you or anyone else you know is interested, make sure to apply now!

Planner, AECOM Atlanta

AECOM's Atlanta office is seeking an urban/regional planner to assist with a variety of projects throughout the South, including local and regional land use and sustainability plans, transportation/land use corridor plans, neighborhood/sector plans, and similar projects. Duties include research, writing, public meeting facilitation, document production, and assistance with project management tasks including client contact, budgeting, and coordination of subcontractors.

Master’s degree and 2-5 years’ experience or bachelor's degree and 5-7 years' experience, along withk nowledge of local and regional planning and sustainability concepts. Required skills include research, writing, meeting facilitation, and organization. Overnight travel required, and GIS and desktop publishing proficiency also desired. Application Deadline 31 Jan 12.

Send resume to ellen.heath@aecom.com

National Environmental Education Advisory Seeking Nominations of Candidates

From the American Public Health Association Newsletter:

"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of External Affairs and Environmental Education is currently seeking nominations from a diverse range of candidates to serve on the National Environmental Education Advisory Council (NEEAC), a federal advisory committee. In an effort to obtain nominations of diverse candidates, EPA encourages nominations of women and men of all racial and ethnic groups. Candidates should possess the following qualifications: strong communication and writing skills, ability to evaluate programs in an unbiased manner and demonstrated experience and/ or knowledge in environmental education issues. Any interested and qualified individuals may be considered for appointment on the NEEAC. Applications should be submitted by January 15, 2012, in electronic format to the Designated Federal Officer, Javier Araujo (araujo.javier@epa.gov). The call for nominations is on the NEEAC website as well as more information about the program."

Job Oppty: Preservation Planner, Leesburg

From the Virginia Association of Counties job list:

"SALARY: $55,390-$92,969 DOQ/DOE (+) benefits. (pop. 43,303). Founded in 1758, Leesburg has two historic districts and several Civil War sites. Serves as town's historic preservation officer and reports to the zoning administrator within the Planning and Zoning Department. Reqs. BA/BS (master's preferred) in historic or preservation planning; architectural history, urban planning, design, or related field; 5 yrs. progressively responsible preservation planning exper.; OR equiv. comb. of educ. and relevant exper. Prefer preservation planning exper. in local govt.; understanding of local, state and federal preservation laws and programs. Primary responsibilities: Managing town's preservation program by preparing staff reports and presenting recommendations to the Board of Architectural Review on certificate of appropriateness in the Historic Districts; providing technical preservation and design expertise to the public and town personnel; serving as the town's liaison on Certified Local Government administration and researching grant opportunities; maintaining the design guidelines for the Historic Districts; contributing to team efforts to maintain and update the Zoning Ordinance with respect to preservation and design; and assist the public on preservation and design issues. Reqs. knowledge of architectural history, construction techniques and materials; ability to read architectural and building plans; exceptional report writing and presentation skills; knowledge and ability to write and interpret design guidelines and zoning regulations; ability to communicate design concepts in non-technical terms; positive problem-solving and customer service attitude; and good project management skills. To apply, go to: http://1.usa.gov/yMrXu4. Deadline: Feb. 3. EOE"

Job Oppty: Senior Transportation Planner, Loudoun County

From the Virginia Association of Counties job list:

"SALARY: $56,648-$80,326 hiring range. One of the fastest growing counties in the nation faces a number of transportation challenges. Position reqs. knowledge and expertise in all aspects of transportation. Duties include: completion of accurate, timely and concise transportation referrals for use by staff, Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors; participation in negotiations to obtain the highest level of transportation improvement proffers, developer contributions and solutions; making presentations before the Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission; and representing the county on regional planning bodies associated with transportation. Must possess ability to communicate effectively. Reqs. any comb. of educ. and exper. equiv. to a relevant master’s degree and min. 2 yrs. exper. in transportation planning, including at least 6 mos. individual or team project, functional or operational administrative exper. in transportation planning. AICP, PE or PTP certifications desirable. Job #12-A151T-063. Visit www.loudoun.gov for more info and to apply. Apply immediately. EOE."

Job Oppty: Park Management Specialist I - Fairfax County Park Authority

Via the Virginia Conservation Network enewsletter:

"Job # 12-2818

Salary Range: $62,867 to $83,823  (Grade S28)
The Fairfax County Park Authority's Resource Management Division, which is dedicated to interpreting and preserving Fairfax County's natural and cultural resources for the enjoyment, health and inspiration of current and future generations, is seeking an experienced professional to lead its Natural Resource Management and Protection Branch. Serves as the Park Authority's senior natural resource stewardship staff member and provides policy recommendations, develops programs, secures funding and provides technical expertise to achieve the agency's natural resource stewardship mission. Manages multiple programs and projects and works independently to manage a challenging workload. Supervises a team of three full-time staff, part-time staff and contractors. Partnering and collaborating within and outside the Park Authority to build support for policies, projects and funding is an essential component of the position.

Minimum Qualifications: Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in recreation and park management or other pertinent related field; plus four years of experience in work related to parks or recreation, including responsible administrative/managerial experience, preferably in the applicable functional area (i.e., natural resource management and protection).

Special Requirements: Must be able to travel on foot in rough terrain, including steep slopes, with fallen trees and other obstacles, and standing and moving water. The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer. Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications: Master's degree in ecology, biological sciences, natural resources or a related field. At least five years of relevant experience, including at least three years of experience in supervising employees. A history of success in securing funding for natural resource projects or programs and in managing budgets. Experience: developing policy and best practices; managing contracts and projects; with public processes to include communication with stakeholder groups, public and/or private boards, elected officials, citizens, corporate entities, etc.; using Microsoft Office software; and using Geographic Information Systems (latest version of ESRI software). Expertise in natural resource management (inventories, planning and implementation). Demonstrated communication skills and ability to present complex information effectively to lay audiences.

Selection Procedure: Panel interview.

Note: Must be able to work evenings and/or weekends to attend meetings or for project obligations.

TO APPLY: Apply online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/jobs by January 20, 2012. Fairfax County is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, creed, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veterans' status or disabled veterans' status. Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. Minorities and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. EEO/AA/TTY."

Bicycling and Walking Benchmarking Report

"The U.S. Bicycling and Walking Benchmarking Project is an on-going effort from the Alliance for Biking & Walking to collect and analyze data on bicycling and walking in all 50 states and at least the 50 most-populated U.S. cities. The first report was published in 2007; the next will be released in 2012" (on January 23), the project website notes.  Visit the Alliance website to reserve your copy in advance (fee for report).

Call for Papers: Cornell Policy Review

CALL FOR PAPERS

Submission Deadline: January 30th, 2012

Greetings from Cornell University,

The Cornell Policy Review, the public policy journal of the Cornell Institute for Public Affairs (CIPA), is a student-run, non-partisan journal dedicated to publishing interdisciplinary work that focuses on a range of political, social, economic, and scientific policymaking issues. We are currently accepting submissions for our spring 2012 issue. The Cornell Policy Review is distributed to faculty and departments across the Cornell campus, other public policy programs around the country, prominent alumni and practitioners in the policy field, and select bookstores. Graduate students, field practitioners and faculty members are invited to submit original work.

We encourage you to think broadly about how your research may influence the body of knowledge that will shape policymaking and administration in the years to come. Submissions in the form of public policy papers should highlight a specific policy concern, inform readers of the current state of that policy, and propose specific amendments or revisions to the policy. Submissions in the form of administration papers should reflect on the administration and management of critical programs that serve the public. Submissions in the form of field report papers should document unique experiences and perspectives that authors have gained while conducting work in the field. This year, we will also be accepting submissions in the form of op-ed pieces—which may include more emphasis on the author’s opinions about a particular topic of policy interest than a traditional academic paper—and conversation write-ups—which may be in the form of traditional interviews or synthesize various forms of correspondence with professionals in the field.

SELECTION CRITERIA
The Cornell Policy Review will select papers for publication based on the following criteria:
□ Relevance to contemporary policy debates
□ Contribution to the specific field of knowledge that the author is addressing
□ Originality of the ideas being presented and consideration for factors involved
□ Style of writing and persuasiveness of the argument

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
Submissions should range from 4000 to 7000 words and must include a 100-word abstract. Work must be original and unpublished. Citations must be formatted as endnotes according to the Chicago Manual of Style. A cover letter should include the author’s name, address, e-mail address, daytime phone number and a brief biography. To be considered for the spring 2012 print issue, submissions must be sent to thereview@cornell.edu by January 30th, 2012. All forms of submission will be considered for both print and online publication.

On behalf of the entire staff at The Cornell Policy Review, we thank you for your consideration and we look forward to reviewing your work.

If you have any questions, please contact thereview@cornell.edu.

Very truly yours,

Michael Donovan, Editor-in-Chief

Marquis Hawkins, Managing Editor
The Cornell Policy Review
Phone: (607) 255-8018
Fax: (607) 255-5240

Livability & Smart Growth Assessment Tools Database

From the American Public Health Association newsletter:
"The Safe States Alliance recently developed the Livability & Smart Growth Assessment Tools Database, which includes assessment tools and checklists to assist users with evaluating their communities' degree of livability. The Database provides the information needed to create safer and healthier neighborhoods. The tools within the database are searchable by community size, assessment type, user role and six topic areas developed as a practical combination of the Livability and Smart Growth principles."

Job Announcement

The Safe Routes to School National Partnership is Hiring In California, Florida, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio and Tennessee

The Safe Routes to School National Partnership is looking for seven energetic and dynamic professionals (one per state) to work as state advocacy organizers in California, Florida, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio and Tennessee. Applications are due on Thursday, February 2nd, at 5:00 p.m. PT. The California position begins February 13, 2012 and the other six positions begin on March 1, 2012.

Summary: The state advocacy organizer builds, strengthens and maintains a state network of diverse organizations, public agencies and partners to achieve the following three main policy objectives:

1) Leverage funding for bicycle and pedestrian construction projects, including the award and obligation of federal Safe Routes to School and Transportation Enhancements funds.
2) Facilitate additional street-scale improvements through the adoption of Complete Streets policies, design guidelines that support active transportation, and other mechanisms at state, regional and local levels.
3) Advance joint-use agreements through state level policies and agreements between cities and school districts.

All policies must benefit lower-income communities and are intended to improve the built environment and increase physical activity to help reverse childhood obesity.

The organizer will possess strong skills in recruiting and organizing network partners and building action teams to achieve the three main policy objectives. He or she will also be responsible for ensuring sustainability of the project and position by securing on-going funding for 2014 and beyond.

Required qualifications for these positions include: a bachelor’s degree; knowledge of Safe Routes to School, transportation and/or health issues; a minimum of two years proven success in an advocacy/communications position; ability to be an effective fundraiser; experience in public speaking; and strong communication and writing skills. A full description of job responsibilities and qualifications is available.

Successful candidates will work from their home office within proximity to the capital region of the identified state. The salary for this position is in the range of $48,000 to $52,000, depending on experience, plus benefits. Please refer to the job announcement for specific details on applying. Telephone inquiries are not accepted.

The Safe Routes to School National Partnership was founded in 2005 and is a network of more than 550 organizations. The National Partnership is hosted by the non-profit Bikes Belong Foundation, and its mission is to advocate for safe walking and bicycling to and from schools, and in daily life, to improve the health and well-being of America’s children and to foster the creation of livable, sustainable communities. Bikes Belong Foundation is an equal opportunity employer.

California (Sacramento Region)

Position: State Advocacy Organizers (one position in each of seven states) Program: Safe Routes to School National Partnership Institution: Bikes Belong Foundation Classification: Full-time salaried position Location: Your home...

Job Announcement

Planner/GIS Specialist, LandDesign, Charlotte, NC

We are currently searching for an Experienced Planner/GIS Specialist (1-3 years) who will join our Charlotte, NC office and be a key player in the growth of our firm. The chosen candidate will share our commitment to exceptional client service and enthusiasm for creating great places and improving the public realm. Applicants should have 1-3 years experience working in a planning capacity with an emphasis on utilizing GIS technology to analyze, view, understand and interpret data in a variety of ways. The successful applicant will provide geospatial support to a variety of short, mid- and long-term public planning efforts including regional, corridor, small area and comprehensive planning projects. The candidate must have the ability to manage multiple projects and concurrent deadlines, as well as excellent communication skills and the ability to deliver advanced GIS analysis in oral, written and graphic format.

A Bachelor Degree or higher in Planning is preferred with a strong proficiency using ESRI software and land use modeling skills. The ability to compile and extract geographic data from a variety of sources is required as well as excellent oral and written communication skills. Strong analytical and problem solving skills are a must as well as the ability to work independently. A strong attention to detail with an ‘eye” for professional quality graphical layouts is required.

For an opportunity to join a great company with great designers that is dedicated to creating sustainable, livable places, please send your cover letter, resume, design samples, and other relevant work samples to jobs@landdesign.com

LandDesign offers a competitive compensation package that includes medical & dental insurance, a 401 (k) program and other great benefits.
LandDesign is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a drug-free work place.
Please no phone calls. If you are selected for an interview someone will contact you.

Contact

LandDesign offers award winning urban design, planning, civil engineering and landscape architecture solutions to public and private sector clients across the globe. With seven offices in the United States and Beijing China,...

January 25 - Wernstedt and Roberts - Research in Progess Lunchtime Discussion

Please join us Wednesday (1/25) for the semester’s first SPIA Research in Progress lunchtime discussion. The details:

“Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head: Factors Shaping The Use of Climate Science to Prepare for Floods in Rural Communities”

Kris Wernstedt (UAP) and Patrick Roberts (CPAP)

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

12:00-1:00pm

3^rd Floor Library

1021 Prince Street

**Please feel free to circulate!**

As usual, Pizza will be served. Please RSVP if you plan to partake.

Thanks,

Matt

Jan 22 Pgm: White House and Partnership for Sustainable Communities CODE-FOR-LIVABILITY

The White House Office of Public Engagement and The Partnership for Sustainable Communities* [U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)], invite you to join us for the *Code for Livability* on January 22, 2012. 

The Code for Livability brings key stakeholders with backgrounds related to livability, housing, transportation and environmental issues together with experts in web development and technology to work on *Solutions in REAL Time* that can bring sustainability to the forefront of peoples everyday lives. Please join us to kick off an exciting week of transportation related meetings, including the Annual Transportation Research Board Meeting!

When: Sunday, January 22, 2012, 9:00am 1:00pm
Where: American Public Transportation Association
1666 K Street, NW
Washington, DC 20006

Special Guest: Chris Vein, Deputy Chief Technology Officer, White House
RSVP: http://c4livabilitydc.eventbrite.com/ (no later than January 19, 2012)

Background
This is a revolutionary opportunity to connect and build solutions for the issues that matter most to you and your stakeholders. We want to bring real-world issues to the table so we can focus the energies of the technology community to build tools that generate powerful new data to study and advance our shared goals. Your participation will make this event a success!

Please visit the Partnership for Sustainable Communities *Code for Livability* http://bit.ly/c4livability Web site to learn more and participate in the discussion leading up to the event. We have some problem statements already teed to help get the conversation started, but we need your input to focus the work!

If you'd like to learn more about other successful code-a-thons, check out this Wikipedia page http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hackathon or the Health 2.0 Challenge as an example.

Today! [r]Evolutionary Parks: The Future of Public Space Event in WDC

From the National Capital Planning Commission website:

"Wednesday, January 11, 2012
7:00 – 8:30 PM
Add to Google Calendar | Download .ics for Outlook

Where:   William G. McGowan Theater
National Archives Building
Washington, DC
(Attendees should use the Special Events entrance, located on the National Mall at Constitution Ave. and 7th Street, NW)
Map it | Metro: Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter
 
Overview:   In today's evolving world, how can parks and public spaces like the National Mall thrive while successfully responding to the diverse and often competing array of future needs? The National Capital Planning Commission, the Trust for the National Mall, the City Parks Alliance, and the National Archives host a panel discussion to explore new ways to think about public space. The public program features a dynamic panel:

Moderator:
Jason Schupbach
Director of Design, National Endowment for the Arts
View Bio

Panelists:
John Bela
Founder and Principal, Rebar
View Bio

Theaster Gates
Artist and Cultural Planner
View Bio

Tupper Thomas
Former President, Prospect Park Alliance
Former Administrator, Prospect Park
View Bio

The program is presented in partnership by the National Capital Planning Commission, Trust for the National Mall, City Parks Alliance, and the National Archives. The program is a companion event to the Design Competition, sponsored by the Trust, in which many of the country’s leading designers are proposing designs to enhance the beauty, usefulness and sustainability of the three major areas on the National Mall prioritized for redesign in the National Mall Plan. Learn more about the competition at www.nationalmalldesign.org.

Continuing education credit for planning and design professionals. AICP CM: 1.5"

Natural Hazards Mitigation Planning Class Blog

For a great example of a class blog see: http://blacksburgwinterstorms.wordpress.com/ from Dr. Yang Zhang's class.

Jan 20 APA Communications Bootcamp Webinar on Social Media

From the American Planning Association:
"Resolve to Become a Better Advocate for Planning In 2012

APA can help you do it with Communications Boot Camp, which continues this month with a guide to working with elected officials and a webinar on social media.

Do your community's elected officials understand the value of planning? Do they stand up — and speak out — to support your work? If they're less-than-powerful advocates, turn to our how-to guide, "Working with Elected Officials," to learn how to identify potential allies and turn them into effective planning champions. This essential guide, prepared by APA Government Affairs Director Jason Jordan, will be available on the boot camp webpage on January 13.

You may register now for the last webinar in the boot camp series, "Social Media Strategies: Using, Organizing, Monitoring and Responding," on January 20. Panelists will review social media and give real-world examples of planners — and planning opponents — who are using them to great effect. Find out how you can implement these potent tools in your own work.

Register for the January 20 webinar

Previous how-to guides and recorded webinars are archived on the Communications Boot Camp webpage. All boot camp resources are free for APA members. Communications Boot Camp does not offer CM credit.

  Communications Boot Camp webpage"

Jan 12 Farm Bill and Public Health Webinar

From the American Public Health Association Legislative Update:

"On Thursday, January 12, 2012 at 2:00pm EST, Healthy Food Action will launch its 2012 Healthy Food, Healthy Farms webinar series titled Visualizing Health and the Farm Bill. Speakers will include Jennifer Billig, with the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, Roni Neff, with the Center for a Livable Future at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Beth Hoffman with Food+Tech Connect. Speakers will provide an overview of key public health provisions in the Farm bill and will engage in a discussion about the potential public health impacts of the upcoming reauthorization of the Farm Bill later this year.
Interested members can register for the webinar on the Healthy Food Action website."

Citizen Apps to Solve Complex Urban Problems

CPAP's Dr. Kevin DeSouza, director of the Metropolitan Institute, has "a paper accepted for publication in the Journal of Urban Technology. Co-authored with Akshay Bhagwatwar (Kelley School of Business, Indiana University) this paper looks at how citizen apps are employed to solve complex urban problems."

Read the abstract at this link

Hokie Passport ID cards 2/6/12-2/7/12 @ NCR

Hokie Passport ID cards 
2/6/12 - 2/7/12 
11:00am -8:00pm 
NVC Resource Center/Library

The Hokie Passport is the official identification card for Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.  New faculty, staff, students, and anyone who does not already have one with a University Assigned number on it are encouraged to get one.  A representative from the Hokie Passport office www.hokiepassport.vt.edu will be in Falls Church on February 6 and February 7  from 11:00am-8:00pm  in the Resource Center/ Library, 1st floor at the Northern Virginia Center in Falls Church, VA  http://www.nvc.vt.edu/about/

Upon arrival to the location, simply fill out the appropriate request card and present your photo identification such as a driver’s license or passport. A photograph will be taken once the information is collected. The identification cards will be available within minutes! Students must be registered for the current semester.

There is no charge for your first Hokie Passport. A $20.00 replacement fee will be charged for lost cards. Payment can be made by check payable to Treasurer, Virginia Tech.

If you already have a Hokie Passport with your University assigned number on it, you do not need to get a new one.

If you have any questions please contact Graduate Student Services Office gsso@nvc.vt.edu at (703) 538-8327

If you have a disability and desire any assistive devices, services, or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Graduate Student Services Office during business hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., 48 hours prior to the event, to discuss accommodations: Tel: (703) 538-8327.

Service-Learning in Design and Planning

Publisher: New Village Press
ISBN-13 978-1-61332-001-3
Distributor: Consortium
Pages: 336
Binding: Library-quality Paperback
Trim: 6 x 9
Illustrations: 25 B/W photographs
Pub Date: December 2011
Special: Index
Price: $ 19.95









Contributing Authors: Keith Bartholomew, Amanda M. Beer, Peter Butler, Linda Corkery, Pat
Crawford, Lynne M. Dearborn, Susan Erickson, Susan C. Harris, Sally Harrison, Jeffrey Hou, Clara
Irazábal, Paul Kelsch, Zenia Kotval, Laura Lawson, Mira Locher, Patricia Machemer, V. Paul
Poteat, Ann Quinlan, Jodi Rios, Michael Rios, Joseph Schilling, Lynda Schneekloth, Scott
Shannon, Lisa B. Spanierman, Jack Sullivan, and Daniel Winterbottom.

Phillip D. Peters Regional Planning Fellowship 2012

The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) and the Steering Committee of the Phillip D. Peters Regional Planning Fellowship Program are pleased to announce the  availability of a fellowship during the calendar year 2012 the fellowship competition is open  to students enrolled in a Master's degree graduate program in planning or a related field. Please distribute the enclosed position announcement, application guidelines, and  recommendation form to qualifying Master's degree graduate students in your program.  Please note that the deadline for receiving all application materials is Wednesday, February 15, 2012. The fellow will be announced March 30, 2012. Position Announcement Application Guidelines Recommendation Form Questions regarding the fellowship should be directed to Catherine Holland-Hatcher,  HR Associate at 312/386-8772 or chollandhatcher@cmap.illinois.gov. Kindest Regards, Catherine M. Holland-Hatcher H.R. Associate Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning 233 S. Wacker Drive Suite 800 Chicago, Illinois 60643 312-386-8772 - office 312-386-8773 - fax chollandhatcher@cmap.illinois.gov - email hresources@cmap.illinois.gov - resume submission www.cmap.illinois.gov - website Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) 233 South Wacker Drive | Suite 800 | Chicago | IL | 60606

Capital Bikeshare Report

This report is based on the work of these students in the Virginia Tech graduate-level Urban and Regional Planning program, Alexandria, Virginia, during the Fall 2011 semester:
Natalie Borecki, Bradley Rawls, Darren Buck, Paola Reyes, Payton Chung, Matthew Steenhoek, Paticia Happ, Casey Studhalter, Nicholas Kushner, Austin Watkins, and Tim Maher.

The project was directed by:
Ralph Buehler, PhD
Virginia Tech
Assistant Professor
Department of Urban Affairs and Planning – Alexandria Campus

(Click on graphic to view full report) 

New Publication

John L. Renne, Thomas W. Sanchez, and Todd Litman
Carless and Special Needs Evacuation Planning: A Literature Review
Journal of Planning Literature November 2011 26: 420-431, first published on October 10, 2011 doi:10.1177/0885412211412315

From: http://tomsanchez.wordpress.com/
 

New Publication

Fall 2011
Transportation, Accessibility and Equity

Feature Articles

• Public Transit’s Imperiled Future (153 KB)
  By Lisa Schweitzer
• Getting There: Putting Accessibility into Practice for Progressive Transportation Planning
  By Jonathan Levine and Joe Grengs
• What is Transportation Equity?
  By Tom Sanchez
• Race, Class and Public Transit in the Motor City
  By Joel M. Batterman
• Fruits, Veggies and Mass Cycling
  By Kevin J. Krizek
• Liberalism, neoliberalism and Urban Transportation
  By Aaron Golub
• Public Works, Public Networks: Community-Centric Telecommunications Planning (418 KB)
  By Greta Byrum and Benjamin Lennett
• Foreclosures and the Federal Response
  By Neil Mayer
• Christopher St. John and the Maine Center for Economic Policy
  By Pierre Clavel
• Cuba Protects Private Housing, Not Capitalist Real Estate
  By Jill Hamberg
• “This Square is our Home!”: The Organization of Urban Space in the Spanish 15-M Movement
  By Álvaro Sevilla-Buitrago

From: http://tomsanchez.wordpress.com/

Wash DC Internship: Part Time Communication/Media Intern

Position Available: Part Time Communication/Media Intern

Organization Description
Founded in 1971, the Washington Youth Garden at the U.S. National Arboretum provides a unique year-round environmental science and food education program for youth and families via four core environmental science and food education programs Garden Science, Seed To Supper, Growing Food…Growing Together and SPROUT and a one acre teaching  and demonstration garden at the U.S. National Arboretum.

Through garden exploration, the mission of the Washington Youth Garden is to inspire and engage youth and families in self-discovery, explore relationships with food and the natural world, and contribute to the health of the environment and their communities.

Responsibilities:
Seeking an energetic, creative individual with strong communication and social media skills to assist small staff with managing and advancing the organization’s communication systems.  The Communications/Media Intern will have the opportunity to work on a variety of communication projects involving website and blog maintenance, newsletter development and writing, coordinating presence on social media networks, communications database development and maintenance, writing articles and organizational communications, as well as assisting with programs and special events. Intern would report to WYG’s Program Director.

Primary responsibilities will include:
•    Managing website, blog and other social networking sites (i.e., Facebook, Flickr);
•    Assist with ongoing development, design, editing and dissemination of WYG’s e-newsletter;
•    Assist with development and maintenance of communications database;
•    Cultivate WYG’s electronic and print media contact database (and place stories in print, blogs and other online sites where applicable);
•    Assist with creation and maintenance of garden signage;
•    Photographic documentation of programming and special events; and
•    Occasional program and special events support.

Qualifications:
At minimum 1-2 years of media/communications operation experience.
•    Excellent written communications skills; excellent interpersonal skills;
•    Excellent computer skills, including familiarity with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, etc.); experience or willingness to learn Non-Profit Soapbox, and Emma Email Marketing Service;
•    Experience with social networking sites such as Facebook, Flickr;
•    Creative self-starter; proven ability to work independently and as a team player; manage details and complete assignments in an efficient and effective manner;
•    Enthusiasm for sustainable food movement; interest in nonprofit communications, and marketing;
•    Arts/creative experiences, photography and bilingual skills are highly recommended.

Time commitment:
Part-time (approximately 20 hours per week) three month position beginning early February through April 2012.  The start and end dates and hourly commitment of the internship are flexible and can be adjusted in response to both organization’s and intern’s needs.

Compensation:
The internship is unpaid, but WYG can arrange for the intern to earn academic credit through one’s college or university if applicable.

How to Apply
Application due January 19th, 2012
Please email resume, cover letter, and references to outreach@washingtonyouthgarden.org

No phone calls please

The Washington Youth Garden

3501 New York Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20002-1958
Phone 202-245-2709    Fax 202-544-5398
www.washingtonyouthgarden.org

Job: Wash, DC -- Pgm Asst, Food & Environment Pgm, Union of Concerned Scientists

Program Assistant
Food and Environment Program
Union of Concerned Scientists
Washington, DC Office

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is the leading science-based nonprofit working for a healthy environment and a safer world. UCS combines independent scientific research and citizen action to develop innovative, practical solutions and to secure responsible changes in government policy, corporate practices, and consumer choices. What began as a collaboration between students and faculty members at MIT in 1969 is now an alliance of more than 300,000 citizens and scientists that includes people from all walks of life: parents and businesspeople, biologists and physicists, teachers and students. UCS strives for a future that is free from the threats of global warming and nuclear war and a planet that supports a rich diversity of life. Our specific focus areas include global warming, renewable energy, advanced vehicle technology, nuclear power safety, nuclear weapons and related security issues, preserving the integrity of science, and promoting sustainable agriculture and food systems.

Responsibilities
Provides administrative, budget, communications, legislative, research, and outreach support to a 10-person Food and Environment Program staff. Monitors program expenditures, conducts research, assists in public information and membership-related tasks, and helps with special projects as requested.

Key responsibilities include:
· Making staff travel arrangements and assisting with preparations for conferences
· Maintaining program records, taking notes at meetings, and facilitating staff responses to regular deadlines
· Responding to information requests and routine correspondence
· Assisting the budget manager by tracking program spending and reconciling budget records monthly
· Assisting the Washington representative with lobbying activities, including scheduling meetings and distributing materials to the Hill and agency officials
· Contributing to the preparation, proofreading, publishing, and release of program reports, and assisting outreach staff with web-based and social media engagement efforts
· Conducting research requested by staff scientists and analysts, and writing for UCS publications as directed

Qualifications and experience
Bachelor's degree or equivalent is required. Position requires careful attention to detail, excellent interpersonal skills, familiarity with office operations, competence with research tools, and intermediate level skills in basic office software including word processing, spreadsheets, and database use/maintenance. Strong written and oral communication skills, excellent administrative and organizational skills, ability to work independently and as part of a group are also required.

At least two years of relevant experience as a program, administrative, or research assistant, preferably in a non-profit organization. Experience managing budgets or contracts, conducting research, and maintaining databases strongly preferred. Familiarity with food and agriculture issues helpful, but not required.

Compensation, Hours and Location: This is a full time position based in UCS’s Washington, DC office. The salary is in the low $30s for candidates who meet all requirements. UCS offers excellent benefits and is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. Information about the organization is available at http://www.ucsusa.org

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, salary requirements, how you learned about the position and resume via email to jobs@ucsusa.org and include “Food and Environment Program Assistant” in the subject line. Email materials in Word documents only. No phone calls please. Deadline: January 13 or until filled.

Online: http://www.ucsusa.org/about/jobs-at-ucs.html#ProgramAssistant

Reminder: GMS Urban & Regional Policy Fellowship Appl Due Jan 31

From the German Marshall Fund

"This is a reminder that applications for the German Marshall Fund's Urban & Regional Policy Fellowship program are due on January 31st, 2012. Please note that this fellowship program is separate from other GMF-led fellowship opportunities, including the Strong Cities, Strong Communities program and the Marshall Memorial Fellowship program. For more information on how to apply, please see below.

---

The German Marshall Fund of the United States is pleased to announce the 2012 Call for Applications for fellowships being offered through its Urban and Regional Policy program. The Urban and Regional Policy Fellowships are open to practitioners and policymakers working on local and state policy in the United States and Europe. Fellows have the opportunity to conduct research  projects (of varying length and depth) designed to shed new light on an urban or regional policy challenge by exploring how it has been addressed on the other side of the Atlantic. Fellows return from their time overseas equipped with the ideas and insights necessary to effect significant and lasting change in their own communities. The Fellowship program is made possible by support from the Compagnia di San Paolo and the Bank of America.

Fellowship Overview

GMF offers two types of Urban and Regional Policy fellowships that vary in length, intensity, and expected outcomes. Short-term Travel Grants are available for individuals seeking to gather information that pertains to a specific, social, economic, or physical challenge or obstacle in their home communities. Over three to four weeks, these fellows visit a maximum of two cities for a series of site visits and meetings with relevant individuals and institutions. Longer-term Research Grants are available for individuals interested in completing more in-depth policy analysis. These fellows are based abroad for three months and examine how three case study cities approached a discrete policy challenge through site visits and interviews. Long-term fellows are expected to review available literature in advance of their travel and adhere to a well-developed research methodology.

Fellowship Outcomes

Both short and long-term fellows are expected to produce a written report summarizing their policy recommendations for publication and dissemination, as well as actively disseminate their findings to the policy community broadly, and their home communities more specifically. The type of fellowship conducted will determine the length and intensity of both the written and oral final products; long-term fellows will generally be expected to produce a full-length policy report.

Who Should Apply

GMF welcomes applications from mid-career professionals with an interest in gaining an understanding of how similar urban and regional challenges are approached in a policy context other than their own and an ability to translate lessons learned into policy action in their own communities. Applicants should be policymakers or practitioners in state/local government, leaders from the private sector, or representatives of non-profit and policy organizations. The fellowship is not intended for academic research. GMF welcomes fellowship proposals that cover a wide array of topics, including but not limited to urban sustainability, transportation, environmental policy, and education and workforce development. In 2012, the Advisory Committee is particularly interested in applications that focus on social issues such as affordable housing and social inclusion.

Urban and Regional Policy Program Networks

A major component of the Urban and Regional Policy Program’s practitioner network is the Transatlantic Cities Network (TCN), which provides a framework for the exchange of information about innovative policies, best practices, and local policy challenges among a diverse network of policymakers, practitioners, and civic leaders who are well-positioned to put new ideas into practice in their home cities. Potential fellows may make use of this vibrant network and others within GMF throughout the course of the Fellowship.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should see the program summary and application forms...on our website, for further details on the program and application process. The deadline for submission of applications is January 31st, 2012. Please contact Casey Kuklick, Program Assistant, with specific questions at ckuklick@gmfus.org."