President’s Message – September 2022

It is indeed fall, y’all. The sun showers might continue to steam us, but kids are back in school, and we are nailing down final details for the Fall Conference in Columbus. I am looking forward to a morning run along the Chattahoochee River, enjoying our beautiful venue, and catching up with members from across the state.

The week after our conference, I head to DC to represent APA in conversations with Georgia’s Senators. We are in a strong position to promote APA priorities, including zoning reform. Zoning is a powerful tool as we face the housing crisis, economic instability, and climate change impacts. If you have a story about how zoning is shaping – or could shape – your community, please share it with me.

We will soon be accepting Mentor Program applications. In 2023, we will welcome our ninth class of Mentor Program participants. If you have not participated before, the program is a fantastic opportunity to step back and consider both the progress of the profession and your personal career path. For senior planners, it is a way to give back to your profession and learn from emerging and mid-career planners. Professional planners at all career stages are encouraged to apply!

See you in Columbus!

Yours in service,
Whitney Shephard, PE
President of the Georgia Chapter of APA