Florida State University Department of Urban and Regional Planning - DURP

Florida State University’s Spatial Data Science Center won two awards from the FSU/AWS Research Acceleration Fund on May 3, 2026.

As cloud computing continues to reshape the boundaries of what’s computationally possible, researchers from FSU’s College of Social Sciences and Public Policy (COSSPP) are positioning the university at the forefront of data-driven discovery.

The awards were 2 of 11 presented by FSU’s Office of Research and Information Technology Services, recognizing researchers across campus for their creativity and technical excellence in leveraging AWS cloud computing to advance scientific discovery. The event brought together FSU leadership and researchers for an award ceremony, a panel discussion, and a look at the latest Amazon Web Services (AWS) tools, closing with presentations from winners of FSU’s AI Maker Challenge. Each award included up to $20,000 in AWS credits.

Krafft Professor of Spatial Data Science and Director of the Spatial Data Science Center A. Stewart Fotheringham, Ph.D., led two collaborative teams of COSSPP researchers recognized at the event, along with Urban & Regional Planning colleague Mehak Sachdeva, Ph.D., with projects spanning electoral behavior analysis and the development of advanced tools for geographic modeling.

To read more, visit cosspp.fsu.edu/fsu-spatial-data-science-center-lands-two-awards-for-innovative-use-of-aws-cloud-computing

Congratulations to all of our outstanding graduates! We’re so proud of all the hard work you’ve done, and we wish you all the success, growth, and inspiration as you step into your careers.

Download the photos from our graduation ceremony on our Flickr at

2026-05-01 DURP Graduation and Awards Explore this photo album by FSU College of Social Sciences and Public Policy on Flickr!

Our Transportation Planning specialization teaches students to examine, design, plan, and manage the multimodal transportation system in a safe, efficient, and sustainable manner.

Transportation planning students take courses that enable them to work as professionals in a variety of contexts at all geographic scales, domestically and internationally.

Learn more at cosspp.fsu.edu/durp/transportation-planning!

Our Neighborhood Planning and Community Development specialization prepares students to design, preserve, and rejuvenate neighborhoods and lively communities by emphasizing the economic, social, and physical elements essential for shaping these areas.

To learn more, visit cosspp.fsu.edu/durp/neighborhood-planning

The College of Social Sciences and Public Policy has announced its 2026 Faculty Research, Teaching, and Service Award recipients.

Flowing from the COSSPP Strategic Plan, the college has developed a COSSPP Faculty Awards Series to honor high-achieving faculty in the areas of teaching, research, and service.

“It’s a great privilege to recognize 10 outstanding faculty members with this year’s awards,” said Dean Tim Chapin. “Their dedication and contributions reflect the strength of our college’s commitment to research, teaching, and service.”

Out of numerous nominees, the Faculty Awards Committee selected the following faculty to receive these honors (from top left to bottom right):

Ziqi Li, Matt Brooks, Carlisle Rainey, Keon-Hyung Lee, Katie Sherron, Alexandra Cockerham, John Reynolds, Meaghan McSorley, Simona Andrei, John Felkner.

To read more, visit the link in our bio (tr.ee/dfzAA4NcGY)!

Florida State University’s Department of Urban & Regional Planning (DURP) provides students with real-world experience through its Cooperative Internships Program, which allows master’s students to work in professional planning positions for both private and public sectors.

The program provides its students with a stipend and tuition waiver and is sponsored by a variety of public agencies and private firms, including Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency, the U.S. Forest Service, the State of Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, and several others.

Michael Duncan, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, praises the program for its innovative education and strong mentorship.

“Partnerships like this give our graduate students real advantages, with hands-on experience and mentorship that actually prepares them for their careers,” Dr. Duncan said. “It also sends a clear message to prospective students that we take their professional development seriously.”

To read more, visit https://cosspp.fsu.edu/fsus-department-of-urban-regional-planning-engages-students-through-cooperative-internships-program/

Our International Planning specialization teaches students to navigate the challenges of increasing globalization, including climate change and the development of sustainable systems. Students learn to prepare development plans and design and manage projects related to these topics.

To learn more, visit cosspp.fsu.edu/durp/international-planning

Mazi Rhodes, AICP – a two-time FSU COSSPP alumnus (B.S. International Affairs ’20, Master of Science in Planning ’22) – is joining the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) this month as a Freight & Rail Planner.

As a Freight & Rail Planner with FDOT, Rhodes will analyze data, contribute to system plans, and coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to support statewide multimodal freight and rail planning. He will help advance key projects, including the Freight Mobility and Trade Plan, the Rail System Plan, and the Strategic Intermodal System (SIS), through technical analysis and innovation.

“I’m excited to step into a role that allows me to work at the intersection of freight, rail, and statewide planning. This opportunity gives me the chance to take on more leadership in shaping infrastructure decisions that have a real impact on Florida’s economy and mobility,” Rhodes said. “I’m looking forward to continuing to grow professionally while contributing to meaningful, large-scale transportation initiatives.”

To read more, visit cosspp.fsu.edu/alumni-spotlight-mazi-rhodes

The College of Social Sciences and Public Policy invites our Spring 2026 graduates to join us for a Graduation Celebration at Bellamy’s First Floor Atrium on Friday, May 1, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., before FSU’s Commencement Ceremony at 7 p.m. in the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center.

Students can enjoy light refreshments, pick up a small congratulatory gift, and connect with our Assistant Director of Student and Alumni Engagement, Elizabeth Jones, and our Career Center Liaison, Jessica O’Neill, during our graduation celebration.

Our College will be providing professional cap and gown photos in the atrium. Be sure to come with your friends and family- no RSVP necessary!

Read more at the link in our bio (COSSPP News)

Our Environmental Planning specialization focuses on protecting air, land, water, and other natural resources. The primary concerns include managing these resources and mitigating human impacts on the environment. This specialization prepares future planners with the background needed to address these issues effectively.

To learn more, visit cosspp.fsu.edu/durp/environmental-planning