Tag: urban planning

Susan M. Hinkson: Strategic Vision, Purposeful Leadership, Lasting Impact

I’m pleased to share a more comprehensive overview of my professional journey, the experiences that shaped my leadership, and the values that guide my work across real estate, government, nonprofit governance, and strategic advisory roles. It has been a privilege to serve both public and private institutions, and I remain committed to supporting visionary projects and impactful organizations. Here is my biography.

Jason Lockhart: Empowering Professionals to Build, Grow, and Lead with Confidence

I’m excited to share a deeper look into my professional journey, from my early career in architecture and planning to my work today as CEO of Kitchen & Bath Marketing Solutions. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of designing communities, teaching future architects, leading major development projects, and helping remodeling professionals grow their businesses through strategic digital marketing. My career has always been rooted in service, creativity, and a commitment to helping others reach their potential. Here is my biography.

Derek Stertz: A Visionary in Urban Development, Governance, and Geospatial Innovation

I’m proud to share my professional biography—a reflection of my journey across urban planning, GIS technology, and civic leadership. Over the past 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of shaping communities, advising boards, and advancing public service through innovation and collaboration.

Ruth Louie: Championing Community Impact Through Vision, Integrity, and Global Perspective

Ruth Louie is a values-driven executive and cross-sector leader whose four-decade career spans nonprofit strategy, urban planning, real estate finance, and global travel entrepreneurship. With an unwavering focus on community empowerment and sustainable development, Ruth has guided public agencies, CDFIs, and mission-driven ventures through transformative growth. From leading Baltimore Community Lending to founding Joy of Travel LLC, her work reflects a rare blend of analytical precision and human-centered purpose. Whether advising boards or curating journeys, Ruth brings clarity, warmth, and strategic vision to every endeavor.

John Cournoyer: Building Legacies Through Vision, Precision, and Purpose

With more than three decades of leadership in real estate development, John Cournoyer is a visionary executive known for delivering complex, high-value projects that redefine commercial and mixed-use spaces. As Executive Vice President at Brookfield Properties, he oversaw over $3 billion in development activity, driving strategic growth through disciplined capital planning, innovative design execution, and cross-functional leadership. John's reputation for precision, collaboration, and results has made him a trusted figure in the industry and a sought-after voice in both operational execution and strategic vision.

Joseph J. Jebran: Global Real Estate Visionary & Strategic Leader

I’m a senior executive with over four decades of international experience in architecture, real estate development, and project management, having led major commercial, residential, and mixed-use projects across the U.S., Middle East, Europe, and Asia. From overseeing billion-dollar developments to guiding international expansion strategies, my work has always been driven by a passion for design excellence, strategic thinking, and building strong, cross-cultural relationships. I thrive in environments that require both big-picture vision and attention to detail, and I’m always open to meaningful conversations and opportunities to contribute at the executive or board level.

Erik Kocher, AIA, LEED AP BD+C

After four decades of leading transformative architecture projects across the country, I’m honored to share a glimpse into my journey—from student recreation centers to campus master plans, from boardrooms to design studios. It’s been a privilege to help shape spaces that foster learning, community, and wellness. Here is my biography.

W. Kenneth Wiseman, FAIA

I’m honored to share a detailed look into my journey as an architect, leader, and mentor over the past four decades. From designing Olympic venues and college campuses to engaging with professional and academic communities, my goal has always been to create meaningful, lasting spaces. Here is my biography.

Paul L. Battaglia

I'm excited to share my executive biography, which reflects nearly five decades of work in architecture, preservation, acoustics, and education. From founding a respected architectural firm to launching a specialized acoustical company, my career has been driven by a commitment to integrity, community impact, and continuous learning.

Karen Martin | Principal, Pacific Planning Group, Inc. | Owner, NotificationMaps.com | Urban Planning & Entitlements Expert

Karen Martin is a seasoned expert in urban planning and entitlement strategy with over 30 years of experience guiding public and private sector projects across California. As Principal of Pacific Planning Group, Inc. and Owner of NotificationMaps.com, she has led transformative initiatives that balance regulatory precision with community-centered development. Known for her integrity, strategic insight, and collaborative leadership, Karen is now channeling her deep industry knowledge and civic commitment into board service—supporting organizations that value sustainable growth, policy expertise, and meaningful community impact.

Naomi Fraenkel Altschul: Infrastructure Development and Funding Strategist

Naomi Fraenkel Altschul, AICP, FE, is a nationally respected economist and infrastructure strategist whose 25-year career has transformed how the United States plans for coastal resilience and public infrastructure. As Chief Economist for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Naomi has overseen the development of over $11 billion in federally authorized projects, leading with a rare blend of technical precision, policy fluency, and visionary planning. With deep expertise in risk management, public finance, and urban development, she brings a powerful voice to the future of sustainable, equitable infrastructure.

Jonathan Oakman: Transformational Real Estate Strategist with Deep Public-Private Experience

Jonathan Oakman is a seasoned real estate executive and civic innovator whose career spans both public and private sectors, with a focus on transformative development and community impact. As Vice President of Development at Landmark Enterprises, he leads a diverse portfolio of projects from Class A industrial build-to-suits to adaptive reuse of historic properties, while also playing a central role in corporate strategy. With a background that includes launching a tax credit consultancy, managing city redevelopment initiatives, and structuring multimillion-dollar financing deals, Jonathan brings a unique blend of policy insight, financial expertise, and strategic vision to his work. His academic credentials from Princeton and Williams College, combined with years of board service and creative pursuits, reflect a well-rounded leader committed to building vibrant, sustainable communities.

Kristi J. Sturtz, ALM, AICP: Fostering Community Solutions from Insight to Impact

I'm excited to share a look at my journey as a community developer and sustainability advocate. Over the past two decades, I’ve had the opportunity to lead impactful initiatives focused on resilience, equity, and regional planning. From multi-million dollar infrastructure investments to food systems transformation, my work is rooted in collaboration and long-term change. Here is my biography.

Deborah Gans: Designing Equitable Cities Through the Power of Good Design for All

I'm excited to share my professional biography, reflecting four decades of work at the intersection of architecture, urban planning, and social impact. As I explore compensated board and advisory roles, I'm eager to bring my experience in civic design, governance, and resilience strategy to organizations committed to shaping equitable, climate-conscious futures.

Steven Riojas: Visionary Architect and Global Practice Leader in Education & Science Design

Steven Riojas is a seasoned architect, global practice leader, and founder of Studio Riojas LLC, an advisory firm serving the architecture and building engineering community. With more than 40 years of experience and a distinguished career leading HDR’s $120M+ Education & Science practice, Steven is known for his strategic insight, collaborative leadership, and commitment to creating purpose-driven environments that advance health, education, and innovation. Now through Studio Riojas, he continues to guide firms toward growth and impact, combining deep technical expertise with a passion for mentorship and mission-focused design.

Cyrus Nury: Senior Planner, Real Estate & Urban Development Expert

Cyrus Nury is a Senior Planner with a strong background in real estate development, urban planning, and financial analysis, currently pursuing an MBA with a Real Estate Specialization at UCLA Anderson School of Management. With over eight years of professional experience, he has successfully led major construction and development projects at UCLA Capital Programs and Atlantic Pearl Investments, managing portfolios valued at over $140 million. Cyrus is skilled in financial modeling, project management, and stakeholder communication, consistently delivering results that align with both financial goals and organizational priorities. His leadership, strategic thinking, and expertise in the real estate sector position him as a valuable asset in shaping innovative, community-focused development projects.