More about Charley
Where did you go for undergrad and what did you major in?
Bachelor of Urban Studies and Planning with a minor in Geography and GIS from U of I.
Why did you choose to attend DURP at U of I?
I chose to attend the Urban and Regional Planning program at Illinois because it is accredited, ranked well, and I also wanted the Big Ten experience. I’ve enjoyed the perks of a small major with the assets of a large university.
I’m from Niles, Illinois. Here’s a couple of fun facts about Niles: we have a super not corny leaning tower of Pisa replica, and a free bus system which runs throughout the village and happened to stir my initial interest in transit.
What are your career ambitions?
Coming from the suburbs, I am frustrated with the unsustainable growth and generally inaccessible environment that comes with suburbia. Mostly, I am frustrated at how difficult it is to live in an environment that does not accommodate for any other mode choice besides cars. So, I would like my work to focus on creating walkable, connected, and equitable communities where one does not need to drive. I also have a passion for the outdoors, so ideally, I’d like to focus on bicycle and pedestrian planning in western communities.