The Department of Urban & Regional Planning celebrated a major milestone in its development with the celebration of its 60th anniversary from March 27th through the 28th, honoring the alumni, faculty, staff, and students who have contributed to its longstanding success.
For 60 years, DURP has trained generations of professional planners and stands as Florida’s oldest planning program, with graduates working across the private, public, and nonprofit sectors in more than 40 states and two dozen countries.
The department commemorated this milestone with a two-day celebration beginning with a programming event at the William Johnston Building. The event featured a talk by Bruce Stiftel, a past professor, chairperson, and associate dean of graduate studies with DURP, focusing on how the department has developed over the last 60 years. His talk delved into the various changes, advancements, and the growing impact of planning in Florida for every decade.
Afterward, the three newest faculty members, Aurora Echavarria, Mehak Sachdeva, and Fariba Siddiq, held a panel discussion with Dean Tim Chapin, sharing their perspectives on the planning profession and its impact on the future. They then expanded the discussion to the alumni in the audience, who also shared their insights.
The presentation and panel discussion were followed by a community walking tour through Cascades Park, and a reception at Proof Brewing Co. The following day, alumni, students, faculty, and staff were invited to attend the FSU baseball game against Duke to close the celebration.
As it marks its 60th year, the Department of Urban & Regional Planning recognizes the alumni, faculty, staff, and students whose collective efforts have shaped the department over time. Through their commitment, the department has grown into a vibrant academic community, positioning it to continue advancing planning practice and education in the years ahead.
For more information about the Department of Urban & Regional Planning, visit https://cosspp.fsu.edu/durp/
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