SUP Homecoming Dinner

The SUP Program in GW's College of Professional Studies welcomes you to a night celebrating our community! Whether you are an alum, a current student or community partner, join us to hear about how SUP students are creating real change through our ongoing partnership with Fort Washington Forward, a community-based organization in Fort Washington, Maryland.

This area, one of the most affluent African American majority neighborhoods in the country, has not attracted the same kind of high-end commercial development as other locations in the greater Washington DC area. Residents, frustrated and perplexed by the lack of attention from county planners and developers, wanted to attract investment that would build a better sense of community, create places to gather, and expand the food and retail options in their small town.

They reached out to GW to determine how they could best move forward to achieve their community-building and placemaking objectives. Research and recommendations originally developed in a SUP studio course in 2021 has guided their grassroots efforts, prioritized resources, inspired action, and formalized their vision.

As a result, Fort Washington Forward, Inc. was formed in December of 2021 as a Maryland non-profit organization with a two-fold mission. First, attracting smart/holistic investment to the Fort Washington community that accentuates retail, the environment, and parks and recreation. Second, enhancing social connectivity and sustainability in our community.

Come hear from GW alumni and students about their ongoing support of Fort Washington and the exciting work by Fort Washington Forward, Inc to drive the change they want to see in their community.

Featured Homecoming Speaker Robin Kogelnik is a Business Development & Communications Consultant turned Urban Planner with 20+ years of experience on large and complex projects for public sector clients. She advises on environmental and climate change adaptation strategies to plan and build vibrant, resilient communities throughout the mid-Atlantic region.

Host or Publisher GW Sustainable Urban Planning Program