Graduate Planning Student Association (GPSA)
We are a student-led organization dedicated to representing the academic and professional interests of all graduate students in urban planning at the University at Buffalo. We strive to foster an inclusive environment within our cohort and institution to draw attention to historic inequalities perpetuated by the profession.
Our mission is to cultivate graduate student excellence in academic study, and equip students with the ability to interrogate instances of discrimination within the field. Through professional development and focus on community service, the GPSA aspires to prepare the next generation of advocacy planners. To truly be effective in our field, it is vital that we confront the harmful legacies of urban planning.
“The price one pays for pursuing any profession or calling is an intimate knowledge of its ugly side.” - James Baldwin
The GPSA is open to all PhD and Master of Urban Planning students in Urban and Regional Planning at the University at Buffalo, working collaboratively with departmental faculty and staff in the School of Architecture and Planning to enhance the graduate student experience. We also serve as the student link to the local and national chapters of the American Planning Association.
We host events and activities, including happy hours, software tutorials, professional networking and guest speakers.
Officers
- President – Ale Andrzejewski
- Vice-President – JP Dillon
- Treasurer – Elliot Lear
- Faculty Liaision – Alex Patino
- Secretary – Leah Smolen
- APA Representative – Kai Nieves
- Media and Events Coordinator – Kera Franceschini