URP 599 – UBRI– Independent Study

Course No.: 25252
Department: Urban and Regional Planning
Semester: 2016 Fall
Location: TBD – TBD
Meeting Day(s): Arranged
Meeting Time: Arranged
Faculty: Shibley, Walsh
One Region Forward (1RF) recently received a prestigious award from the American Planning Association for the exemplary approach to civic
engagement in its regional planning process, including the innovative Citizen Planning School and Champions for Change program. Programming for both
programs will resume in the Fall 2016.
1RF and the University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning are looking for talented, motivated students to join the team that will deliver the
next iteration of this program. This is a phenomenal opportunity to apply your skills and passion to make a meaningful contribution to this region, as well as to the broader planning field!
Interns will work with UBRI staff to conduct 4‐6 community events (likely to be held on Saturdays) including:
Listening sessions with presentations by regional experts, community leaders, and innovators;
Practical capacity‐building workshops for citizen planners; and
A series of workshops to support Champions for Change in taking their ideas and transforming them into actionable projects through a design
and planning process.
Additionally, interns will work directly with individual Champions for Change, providing technical assistance and coaching support as they move their ideas and the region forward. Projects vary significantly in focus and design, typically relating to the 5 Big Ideas of the Regional Plan.