Two MURP Students Honored with American Planning Association (APA) Foundation Diversity Scholarship
Master’s in Urban and Regional Planning students Kaley Arboleda and Lauryn Ballard are the latest recipients of the $5,000 APA Foundation Diversity Scholarship.
The scholarship promotes the advancement of social equity in the field of urban planning and within communities by empowering the work of women, people of color and indigenous descent, veterans, disabled persons, and members of the LGBTQ community. It also aims to promote diversity in the field by supporting those from diverse backgrounds who demonstrate financial need.
Lauryn Ballard currently works for the City of Hollywood, Florida, and received her Bachelor’s degree from Florida State University.
“I am deeply grateful to the APA Foundation for selecting me as a recipient of the 2024 APA Foundation Diversity Scholarship. This generous support enhances my ability to fully engage in my online Master of Urban and Regional Planning studies with the University of Florida, where I am focusing on sustainable community development and creating accessible, sustainable cities. Currently, I work in the City Manager’s Office for the City of Hollywood, an experience that provides first hand insight into the complexities of municipal planning and the importance of cross-departmental collaboration. My experience working in public offices at the state, county, and city levels has also shown me how diverse the needs of different communities can be. This scholarship provides me with the opportunity to further explore community-focused strategies that work toward social equity and environmental sustainability.”
Kaley Arboleda is currently an Assistant Planner at the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency in Tahoe, California. She will be continuing her education at URP after receiving her Bachelor’s in Sustainability and the Built Environment.
“I am passionate about fostering healthy, vibrant, and resilient communities that not only support a sense of belonging but also promote environmental well-being. As I complete my Master’s in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Florida, I look forward to continuing my work at the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency. This scholarship reinforces my dedication to a future in planning that prioritizes community needs, environmental stewardship, and holistic well-being.”