ABOUT THE AUTHORS

American Planning Association (APA). The American Planning Association (APA) is an association of 40,000 planners from 90 countries who work in government, academia, and private practice. APA is organized into 47 state chapters and 24 topical divisions supported by an annual USD 10 million budget with its headquarters in Chicago. APA exists to elevate and unite a diverse planning profession as it helps communities, their leaders, and residents anticipate and meet the needs of a changing world. Our Mission, Vision, and Core Values are:

• Mission: Creating great communities for all.

• Vision: APA will lead the way to equitable, thriving communities by creating unique insights, as well as innovative and practical approaches that enable the planning community to anticipate and successfully adapt to the needs of a rapidly changing world.

• Core Values: APA leaders and staff strive to model a shared set of values that will help us achieve our vision for the future.

• Goals: APA's strategic focus is on four specific Goals that will provide direction for the efforts of leaders, volunteers, and staff: prioritize equity, reframe the voice of planning, upskill planners, and pursue digital relevance.

APA International Division (APA-ID). The APA-ID has over 1,000 student and professional members based in the US and overseas who have, are, or want to do international planning. Our vision, mission, and goals are:

• Vision. We envision a world where planners from diverse backgrounds come together to address global challenges and create more sustainable, equitable, and resilient communities. 

• Mission. The mission of the International Division is to advance international planning in the APA and to enhance the global landscape of planning by advocating for excellence and cultivating a dynamic network for innovation and collaboration. 

• Goals. Through networking, knowledge sharing, and resource development, the division aims to: support planners and students who are involved in or interested in the field of international planning, promote the role of planning and best planning practices at the international stage, and facilitate collaborative problem-solving on urban issues.