Join the Northern Diversity+ Committee
By Adrienne Mau, Northern Administrative Director, April 13, 2026
Northern is launching an expanded Diversity+ Committee, and we’re inviting members to help shape its direction.
Planners across Northern have expressed strong interest in strengthening diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging within both the profession and Northern activities. During a recent working session, participants explored how the Diversity+ Committee can advance these values through programming, mentorship, outreach, and member engagement.
Now is the time to get involved.
Why the Diversity+ Committee matters
Planning is fundamentally about people, communities, and the systems that shape opportunity. Participants emphasized that diversity and equity should not be siloed—they should be integrated into everything the Northern Section does.
Key ideas from initial discussions include:
- Integrating equity themes across all Section activities, including educational programs, social events, advocacy efforts, and the awards gala
- Supporting the planning workforce, especially planners from historically marginalized communities and early-career professionals
- Expanding mentorship opportunities through improved mentor–mentee matching, structured six-month cycles, and better participant surveys
- Highlighting non-traditional planning pathways, including work in nonprofit and community-based organizations
- Sharing best practices on equitable engagement, accessible public meetings, and planner well-being
- Strengthening connections with youth and emerging planners through outreach to schools, youth commissions, and community groups
The committee also aims to leverage Northern communications—such as Northern News—to spotlight equity-focused work, highlight nonprofit contributions, and share practical tools for planners.
Join the committee
The Diversity+ Committee is open to all Northern members interested in advancing equity, diversity, and belonging in planning.
Whether you are a student, early-career planner, seasoned professional, or working in nonprofit, public, or private sectors—your perspective matters.
Meeting Details
- When: 2nd Monday of each month
- Time: 5:30 – 6:30 PM
- Where: Zoom
The committee will meet regularly to develop initiatives, collaborate on programming, and provide recommendations to Northern’s Board.
If you’re passionate about creating a more inclusive planning profession—or simply want to learn, listen, and contribute—consider joining.
Email Adrienne Mau, Northern Administrative Director, at [email protected] to receive an invitation to the next meeting.