From the urban heat islands we experience in our cities to the rising sea levels experienced by island communities, our students and faculty are at the forefront of advancing knowledge around climate change and developing strategies to mitigate the negative effects.

A new research partnership between the School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning and the University of Hawaii at Hilo aims to better understand the vulnerability of island ecosystems, reefs and island communities against rising sea levels, while enhancing research opportunities for students from underrepresented populations.

“This project will provide students the opportunity to develop skills to understand how their homes are being impacted now and in the future by sea-level rise.”

Our students and faculty are committed to our community and work toward creating happier, healthier and more equitable spaces.

Kendra – a recent graduate from one of our accelerated (4+1) degree programs for urban planning – seeks to use her education to influence it further and be an advocate for more inclusivity within the planning profession. 

“The Black community has been oppressed and systemically segregated from other communities ... I feel like as Black planners we can change that, and we want to feel heard, represented and supported in our roles as well.”

The students and faculty of the School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning are frequently recognized nationally and internationally for their creative, innovative and ground-breaking research.

Wenwen Li – a professor of geography who specializes in spatial analysis, cyberinfrastructure and artificial intelligence – was recently selected as a recipient of the National Science Foundation’s Mid-Career Advancement (MCA) award.

“I have always had a great interest in applying data science methods to solve environmental problems, especially those endangering the polar regions."