Each year, APSA, the APA-affiliated Urban & Regional Planning club, raises funds to send students to the American Planning Association National Planning Conference.
Last year, we had a survey to measure the outcomes. The results were clear:
- 86% could not have attended without financial support.
- 100% connected directly with planning professionals and had real conversations about their careers.
- 100% reported stronger belonging, relevance, and commitment to the field.
- 92% of participants were students of color. This is in a profession still working to better reflect the communities we serve.
There’s a big difference between what we study in the classroom and how it works in the real world. This conference exposes that tension and brings students into contact with the professional.
Your support covers airfare, lodging, registration. Again — without it, most of these students will not attend. With it, they gain access to mentors, ideas, and networks. These things are the building blocks of a solid career where planners can make positive changes in the world.
If you value rigorous planning education and expanded access to the profession, contribute to BRONCOS GIVE. Your support directly funds student participation at the national conference and ensures this opportunity remains available to those who need it most.
