THE STUDENT PLANNERS ASSOCIATION (SPA)

The Student Planners Association (SPA):

SPA’s mission is to support and contribute to equitable and sustainable Urban and Environmental Planning practices. SPA creates opportunities for members to engage in Planning-related conversation, expand their professional networks, and encourage knowledge and opportunity sharing.  Because the impact and influence of Planning is tangible across many disciplines and processes, we welcome students from across the University to join us as members or to attend any of our programming. 

SPA organizes Planning-related and social events, connects members with academic and professional development opportunities, and engages with the Charlottesville-area community on Planning-related matters. 
SPA serves as a liaison between the student body, UEP faculty, and School of Architecture leadership, advocating for transparency and collaboration within the department and the A-School. 

Programming: 

SPA hosts social, educational, and professional events focused on various Planning-related topics, such as spatial justice, sustainability, and transportation access. SPA’s annual events are well-attended by students across academic programs, including: 

• Parking Day: SPA participates in a nationwide initiative by transforming a parking spot on The Corner into a mini-park. We turn a blank piece of the streetscape into an inviting space for lawn games, gathering, and relaxing. 
• 100-mile Thanksgiving: Students and faculty share a potluck of dishes made from ingredients sourced within 100 miles, as a celebration of local food systems. 
• Stream Clean-Up Days: SPA members come together to contribute to environmental restoration efforts of Meadowbrook Creek, SPA’s adopted stream at Greenleaf Park. 
• American Planning Association (APA): SPA is a registered student organization with APA and APA VA. SPA organizes funding and trip planning for a small group attendance at the annual National Planning Conference and engages in various APA webinars, lectures, and local conferences.  

Monthly SPA meetings are held to create a platform for open, student-led discussions around topical planning issues, as well as departmental happenings.

Get Involved!

We would love to have you join SPA! Our organization is open to all University of Virginia students, both graduate and undergraduate, who are interested. Follow us on Instagram @planning_at_uva to hear about the latest updates from SPA or join our mailing list to receive email updates about events and opportunities.