UA College of Architecture Honors HCD for its Collaborative Work

UA College of Architecture Honors HCD for its Collaborative Work

Published on May 06, 2026

The University of Arizona's College of Architecture, Planning, and Landscape Architecture (CAPLA) presented Housing and Community Development (HCD) with a recognition award for its collaborative work with the College's Drachman Institute.

Each year graduating students in the University of Arizona Master of Science in Urban Planning program complete an academic project, called Capstone, focused on projects developed and requested by members of Arizona's professional community serving as "clients" for practice projects. The Capstone projects provide a vital opportunity for students to develop their practical experience and demonstrate the complex web of skills and knowledge they've been developing during their time at CAPLA.

This past academic year, CAPLA students April Putney, Joy Kuhlo, Amanda Grant, and Enya Cid Oviedo worked on a project curated by HCD that involved historic research, policy analysis, and data and analytical methods to develop background and recommendations for a community preference policy. HCD Director Ann Chanecka, Lena Porell, Manager of HCD's Strategic Planning and Community Engagement team, and Evren Sonmez, Lead Planner with HCD's El Pueblo Housing Development, worked closely with the students since October, meeting regularly to help guide, provide input, and mentor students in developing their work.

"We are thrilled to celebrate HCD's partnership in this studio, which directly contributes to the development and growth of our future planning professionals," said Kristina M. Currans, CAPLA Associate Professor in Urban Planning.

"Our students benefit greatly from this practical experience, and HCD's consistent support and partnership with this studio is a characteristic example of Lena, Evren, and Ann's continued commitment to service in our local professional community," Currans added.

The Drachman Institute is the community-based research and outreach arm of the College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture at the University of Arizona. The Institute bridges community needs and CAPLA's knowledge and expertise to advance resilience, connection, and belonging across the built environment.

The recognition award was presented on April 30 at CAPLA during a ceremony where other community partners and CAPLA students were recognized for their work and contributions. Evren Sonmez and HCD Public Information Officer Ernesto Portillo accepted the award for HCD.