In this episode, we again hear from Forrest Williams (a former student and also), Director of Administrative Services at the City of Caldwell. This time he talks about his experience as a community partner. He shares how the City tested new ways to engage residents using virtual platforms. He also speaks about his appreciation of working with students.  Let’s hear the conversation:

In this episode, “From a Student’s Perspective”, I talk with Forrest Williams, a former student who worked with a community as part of his college coursework. He talks about the project, his experience, and the challenges students often face. He says, “It was stressful in the moment, but looking back, that’s how every meeting goes.”

In this episode, “Community Impact”, we hear again from the city manager of Nolanville, Kara Escajeda. We worked with Nolanville again in 2019 in 7 classes with the ENDEAVR initiative. She talks about the community impacts of student work.   Website: https://www.nolanvilletx.gov/page/My%20Nolanville%20App

In this episode, “Why the Comprehensive Plan”, you get to hear from Kara Escajeda, the city manager of Nolanville. In 2014, the small community worked with Texas Target Communities and 4 graduate planning classes to develop a comprehensive plan, or the city’s master plan that documents the community’s vision, and actions to improve economic development, housing, community facilities, infrastructure, and other land use decisions.   Website: https://www.nolanvilletx.gov/page/My%20Nolanville%20App

In this episode on “How the Planning Process Enables Movement” we hear again from Dr. Shannon Van Zant former associate executive dean of the School of Architecture where she talks about the role of community planning as a method for universities to authentically engage communities.

In our first episode on “The Origins of Texas Target Communities,” you will hear from Dr Shannon Van Zandt former associate executive dean of the School of Architecture.  She reflects on the history of the program to serve the citizens of Texas and the value for students.

Stay tuned for many stories ahead with faculty and community members about the partnerships formed, and the work completed through Texas Target Communities!