Fellows. During the program term, fellows work in positions with hands-on responsibilities for production. Jobs include project managers for real estate development organizations; underwriters and program managers for financial institutions; public sector planners and project managers; and project managers and community organizers bringing human services, community facilities and programs to redeveloping neighborhoods.

Fellows Monika McKay and Tessa Jackson during an orientation tour of New Orleans

Throughout the coming fall and spring, Fellows will complete an intensive course of specialized training for urban redevelopment work. Fellows bring a variety of professional experiences and academic degrees to their fellowship jobs. The training provides them with knowledge and skills that they have not acquired through previous work, and the opportunity to earn a certificate from the University of Pennsylvania’s Department of City and Regional Planning.

In 2008 and early 2009, fellows and senior professionals from their organizations will participate in national site visits. The site visits will highlight issues and practices of particular interest to a New Orleans audience, and include opportunities to interact with the leaders who made them happen.

Local network-building and professional development will make fellows more effective New Orleans practitioners.

Fellows are required to stay in their fellowship jobs until March 31, 2009. The substantial investment in fellows’ local networks and specialized city and regional knowledge supports their ability to stay for the long term.