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Evan Casper-Futterman
Director at Bronx Cooperative Development Initiative
Professional Background
Evan Casper-Futterman, PhD, is a distinguished professional and a third-generation New Yorker who has been making significant contributions in the realm of urban planning and economic democracy. Currently serving as the Program Director for the Economic Democracy Learning Center at the Bronx Cooperative Development Initiative, Evan is dedicated to fostering cooperative economics and community empowerment in the Bronx and beyond. With a dynamic blend of academic prowess and hands-on experience, he has become a key figure in advocating for innovative urban policies that promote sustainability and inclusiveness.
Evan's journey in urban planning began with a solid educational foundation. He earned his Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of New Orleans in 2011, where he specialized in housing and community economic development. His commitment to understanding the complexities of urban environments led him to intern at the White House in the Spring of 2012, working in the Domestic Policy Council's Office of Urban Affairs. This invaluable experience further fueled his passion for improving urban policy and advocating for equitable development.
In 2013, Evan took on the role of Research Fellow at the Democracy at Work Institute, where he explored innovative frameworks for economic democracy. His academic pursuits culminated in a PhD from the Bloustein School of Urban Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University, where he focused on the intersection of economic democracy and urban development, equipping him with a unique perspective that combines theory with practice.
Throughout his career, Evan has shared his expertise by teaching undergraduate courses at the prestigious Macaulay Honors College at City College of New York (CUNY) and the Geography department at Vassar College. His passion for education and commitment to fostering a new generation of thinkers in urban planning is evident in his teaching methodologies, engaging students in experiential learning that bridges classroom knowledge with real-world applications.
In addition to his teaching and research, Evan is deeply involved in community organization and policy advocacy. As the Board Treasurer of the Cooperative Economics Alliance of NYC, he plays a crucial role in promoting cooperative business models and strategies that foster economic equity in New York City. His work at the Bronx Cooperative Development Initiative is instrumental in creating pathways for economic opportunity, resilience, and community empowerment.
Education and Achievements
Evan Casper-Futterman has a robust educational background that includes the following degrees:
- PhD in Urban Planning and Public Policy from the Bloustein School, Rutgers University
- Master's in Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) with a concentration in Housing/Community Economic Development from the University of New Orleans
- Bachelor of Arts in Geography from Vassar College
Evan has been actively involved in various organizations, serving in roles that leverage his expertise in urban planning, cooperative economics, and democratic governance. His tenure as an intern in the White House is a testament to his commitment to public service and urban affairs, while his research fellowship at The Democracy at Work Institute allowed him to refine his focus on practical applications of economic democracy.
Achievements
Evan's accomplishments speak to his dedication to both academic excellence and community service. Some key milestones in his career include:
- Program Director at the Economic Democracy Learning Center, where he advocates for local economic development practices
- Board Treasurer for the Cooperative Economics Alliance of NYC, supporting the growth of cooperative enterprises across the city
- Successful teaching engagements at reputable institutions, where he has developed curriculum and taught courses that inspire students to engage actively in urban issues
- Research Fellowship at Democracy at Work Institute, providing him with a platform to study and engage with cutting-edge practices in economic democracy
Evan's work exemplifies the critical role that urban planners, educators, and community organizers play in shaping equitable communities. His keen understanding of the socio-economic landscape of urban areas allows him to drive meaningful change and empower others in their pursuit of economic opportunity.