Congratulations to the 2026 Divisions Council Achievement Awards Winners

Each year, the American Planning Association (APA) Divisions Council (DC) Achievement Awards recognize some of the most outstanding achievements across the 25 divisions, and the 2026 awards met that standard. The awards were presented during the 2026 National Planning Conference (NPC) in Detroit and recognized initiatives and programs that took place between October 2024 and September 2025.

"Divisions are where some of APA's best ideas start. I'm proud of what this year's award winners accomplished," says Deborah Myerson, AICP, the 2026 Divisions Council chair. "It's also exciting that included with their membership, every APA member can select one division, so there's never been an easier time to find your community and be part of outstanding work like this."

This year's winners are …

The following APA Divisions received awards in 2026.

BEST PRACTICE

City Planning and Management Division — Planning Directors Networking Breakfast

Since 2024, the City Planning and Management Division (CPM) has hosted the Planning Directors Networking Breakfast at the start of NPC, bringing together approximately 100 directors and managers from across the country for networking and education. The breakfast provides a unique opportunity to engage critically with the planning issues of the host city, with speakers discussing the challenges and opportunities facing their community during a Q&A session or roundtable forum.

This flagship event has allowed CPM to connect attendees to other APA members and events, encouraging greater participation across divisions.

DIVISION COMMUNICATIONS EXCELLENCE

Federal Planning Division

Through its communications program, the Federal Planning Division (FPD) has significantly strengthened member engagement and connectivity through a strategic and highly effective multi-channel approach. By delivering a steady stream of high-quality content through its newsletters and magazines, FPD has elevated the visibility of federal planning.

The team has also expanded the division's digital presence, using LinkedIn and other platforms to connect seasoned professionals with emerging planners and foster engagement across generations. Complementing these efforts, the FPD website has become a trusted hub for timely resources, guidance, and division news.

Together, these initiatives have helped support the Division's eight regional cohorts, strengthened nationwide connections among members, and created a more informed and engaged professional community.

CONTRIBUTION TO THE PLANNING PROFESSION

Women and Planning Division — 'Ava Tanner Across America' Initiative

The Women and Planning Division (WPD) launched the "Ava Tanner Across America" national outreach initiative in conjunction with NPC25. The initiative centers on Ava Tanner The City Planner, a children's book co-authored by WPD Immediate Past Chair Corrin Wendell, AICP. The book aims to introduce girls and historically underserved youth to the planning profession.

After distributing 200 copies of the book during NPC25, WPD formalized the campaign to coincide with APA's National Community Planning Month in October 2025. WPD members sought requests for the book, directing copies to schools, public libraries, municipal offices, recreation centers, Girl Scouts councils, and community organizations in 37 states. Through this initiative, WPD members have worked to introduce careers in planning at an early age and plant the seeds of civic engagement.

EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE

Urban Design and Preservation Division — Student Planning and Design Competition

Now in its ninth year, the Urban Design and Preservation Division (UDPD), Divisions Council, and Student Representatives Council co-sponsor the Student Planning and Design Competition, which invites teams of planning graduate school students to participate. The competition focuses on a significant development site or area in the NPC host city and has the teams consider the steps planners and designers take when developing plans and recommendations. Finalists present their proposals to a jury at a public session during NPC.

By advocating for excellence in planning and promoting education and citizen empowerment, UDPD helps the next generation of urban planners and designers meet challenges related to change and growth.

OVERALL PERFORMANCE

Latinos and Planning Division

Over the past several years, the Latinos and Planning Division (LAP) has strengthened its impact on the profession and Latino communities through its consistent programming, strategic partnerships, and active member engagement. The division organizes a wide range of educational and networking opportunities, including its annual LUGARES conference, podcasts, in-person member events, and product development to address topics such as inclusive engagement and planning for immigrant communities.

LAP also fosters community and professional connection through events such as Bebidas con la Raza, Hispanic Heritage Month programs, and mobile workshops — including a tour highlighting Latino resilience in Denver neighborhoods during NPC25.

The division also supports Latino students and emerging planners through scholarships to attend NPC, receive student leadership opportunities, and provide mentorship pathways that encourage long-term engagement in APA leadership.

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