APA and AICP Presidents' Awards

APA President's Award

AWARDEE: Jennifer Sein Erickson, Boston

Jennifer Sein Erickson: "Jennifer embodies what it means to be a leader, stepping forward when needed for the benefit of our profession and encouraging others to take an active role within APA."

ABOUT: Jennifer is the director of arts and culture for the Metropolitan Area Planning Council. She served on APA's Diversity Committee, as cochair of the People and Places Task Force, and as founding member and steering committee chair of the Arts and Planning Interest Group.

IMPACT: Leaders do not need a title to lead. Jennifer embodies what it means to be a leader, stepping forward when needed for the benefit of our profession and encouraging others to take an active role within APA. She has energized APA's work in the area of creative placemaking. Through her contributions as well as helping to secure grant funding, Jenn is an inspiration to all and truly represents the future of our profession.

—Kurt E. Christiansen, FAICP
APA President

AICP President's Award

AWARDEE: Brent Barnes, Hollister, California

Brent Barnes: "I remember Brent's advice as I encourage new future leaders, hoping to help open doors that were opened for me."

ABOUT: Brent has served in a variety of leadership roles from chapter president to chair of the Chapter President's Council.

IMPACT: There are people who come into your life, mentor you, give you a nudge, or provide an opportunity that can impact your career and life. A mentor to many within the profession, it was because of Brent Barnes's encouragement that I considered being a part of APA leadership. He told me the risk was worth taking. Now, 11 years later, I remember Brent's advice as I encourage new future leaders, hoping to help open doors that were opened for me.

—Deborah Lawlor, FAICP, PP
AICP President