The Rooted & Rising Award

 
 

About the Award…

AndAccess is excited to partner with the Planning in the Black Community (PBC) Division of the American Planning Association (APA) to announce the launch of the Rooted & Rising Award. This program is designed to support students from select universities in pursuing graduate education in accredited urban, regional, city, or community planning programs. Our goal is to cultivate the next generation of planners by providing access to resources, networks, and opportunities that will enable them to drive meaningful change in communities nationwide.

Award Vision

  • Expand access to graduate-level education in planning for graduates of targeted universities.

  • Foster a highly skilled planning profession.

  • Support the development of future leaders in urban, regional, and community planning.

  • Empower scholars to contribute to the transformation of communities.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the The Rooted & Rising Award by AndAccess, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Spring 2025 or Earlier Graduate: Applicants must be graduates of select schools*.

  • Admission to an Accredited Graduate Planning Program: Applicants must have been accepted into or be currently enrolled in an accredited urban, city, regional, or community planning graduate program.

  • Commitment to Planning in Communities: Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to the development and improvement of communities through planning.

  • Application: The application must include the following:

    • Completed Application Form

    • A Personal Statement: (Max. 1,000 words) outlining your passion for urban planning, your background, and how you plan to contribute to community transformation

    • Short Essay: Answering one of two essay questions related to your interest in planning and community development.

    • Video Responses:  A 1-minute “elevator pitch” style introduction and personal statement and a 2-minute video addressing the impact you hope to make in the field of urban planning.

Letter of Recommendations: Two letters of recommendations from college or university faculty members who can speak to your academic potential, work ethic, and commitment to community planning.

Scholarship Benefits

Selected scholars will receive the following benefits:

  • $1,500 Scholarship for the first year of graduate study.

  • $1,000 Scholarship for the second year of graduate study.

  • Conference Attendance Support (up to $750 per year) for two years to help cover the costs of attending relevant urban planning conferences.

Mentorship and Networking Opportunities with leading young planners to enhance professional development and create lasting connections within the field.

Application Deadline: Friday, May 23, 2025

We encourage all eligible applicants to submit their completed application by the designated deadline. Applicants will be notified of their status via email by Friday, June 6th, 2025

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Planning 

By applying to the The Rooted & Rising Award by AndAccess, you are taking a significant step in advancing both your personal and professional journey as a future leader in urban planning. This scholarship is not just a financial resource, but a tool to help you unlock new opportunities, expand your network, and deepen your impact. We are excited to support you as you develop the skills and connections necessary to drive positive, lasting change in communities nationwide.


*See application for list of eligible schools

For additional questions or more information, please contact us at: letstalk@andaccess.com, cc:info_pbcd@planning.org