In this episode of The Professionals Podcast, we delve into the world of sustainable urban planning with Ms. Sandra Whitehead, Program Director, Sustainable Urban Planning Program at GW's College of Professional Studies. The conversation reflects on the dual purpose of building spaces for people and safeguarding the environment and economy for future generations.

The discussion leads to a critical question: Which city serves as a model for sustainable urban planning? While Portland, Oregon, often takes the spotlight, Ms. Whitehead challenges this perception, pointing out concerns like urban sprawl. Drawing from personal experiences in Pensacola, Florida, the conversation explores historical layouts and sustainable practices that contribute to a walkable and environmentally conscious community.

The hosts, Amanda Gillespie and Luke Kasim, probe into Ms. Whitehead's motivation for entering this field, uncovering a personal connection to environmental justice challenges and a desire to understand and rectify the impact of industrial activities on local communities.

Shifting gears, the conversation delves into the role of urban planners in the face of climate change. Ms. Whitehead emphasizes the critical role planners play in shaping communities, managing public lands, and devising strategies for climate resilience. The curriculum's emphasis on climate change reflects its significance, with core classes dedicated to understanding the science and planning for low carbon and resilient cities.

The episode unveils the local impact of the program's graduates, with around 60% choosing to stay in the immediate area, working for federal agencies, non-profits, or planning consulting firms. The close-knit network, facilitated by alumni-student mixers and internships, plays a pivotal role in connecting graduates with job opportunities.

As the conversation unfolds, the conversation explores the program's unique feature – capstone projects. These projects provide students with opportunities to create professional planning products, offering practical solutions to real-world challenges. The podcast concludes with insights into global examples of effective urban planning, citing the Netherlands and Copenhagen, while emphasizing the program's commitment to creating change-makers equipped to address the urgent challenges of our time.