Carolyn Esswein: Transforming Milwaukee’s Neighborhoods

Carolyn Esswein, FAICP, CNU-A, is a professor and Urban Planning Department Co-Chair, at UWM’s School of Architecture & Urban Planning. She is also the owner of Ce Planning Studio LLC, a woman-owned business enterprise, that has transformed neighborhoods across Wisconsin.

As an architect and urban planner, Esswein fosters collaboration between campus and community to achieve excellence in both practice and education. Combining her educational role with 30 years of community planning consulting, she integrates urban design and engagement skills to address projects of varying scales.

Her efforts have resulted in the creation of over 30 new parks and plazas, the first new town centers in the Milwaukee region, over 40 green schoolyards, and economic development initiatives that promote new housing and homeownership opportunities. Through her charette process, Esswein brings together students, local architects, community stakeholders, developers, funders, and city staff to ensure diverse voices are represented in Milwaukee’s corridor redevelopment projects. Her approach has not only shaped policies but also how the city engages with community members.

Carolyn Esswein has a Bachelor of Science degree from UW-Madison and Master of Architecture & Master of Urban Planning degrees from UW-Milwaukee. She is one of five Wisconsin planners to be recognized as a Fellow by the American Institute of Certified Planners, the highest national achievement for planners, and the only woman with this recognition in Wisconsin.

Cauliflower Steak

Succotash, Summer Squash Noodles, Smoked Tomato Coulis,

Basil Oil with Microgreens

Warm Rolls and Butter

Key Lime Tower

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Raspberry Sauce, Toasted Coconut

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