Table of Contents
Next: Graduation on Wednesday, April 15 at 5:30 p.m.
Session Resources
Check back after the session for a copy of the slides and a recording of the session. Contact us at PGNPA@ppd.mncppc.org.
Session 1
Click on the Presentation to open the pdf file or the video to view the recording of the session.
Session 2
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Session 3
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Session 4
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Session 5
Click on the Presentation to open the pdf file or the video to view the recording of the session.
Session 6
Click on the Presentation to open the pdf file or the video to view the recording of the session.
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Describe a planning-related issue, challenge, or concern (topic) in your community. Research existing planning policies, strategies, and recommendations related to your selected topic. Consider how, when, and who you might engage to implement a solution to your topic. Consider possible solutions, tradeoffs, and other perspectives. Present an action plan or project.
All presentations are limited to 5 slides and two minutes.
Share the results of your work in one of the following formats.
All presentations are limited to two minutes:
- A written essay/speech: Submit an essay of no longer than 350 words (about 1.5 pages double spaced). We will place your essay on the screen during graduation. Be prepared to recite it at graduation. You will be allotted 2 minutes.
- PowerPoint Presentation: Submit a PowerPoint presentation of no more than five slides. You will be allotted 2 minutes to present.
- Video: Submit a video with your own commentary of no more than 2 minutes to be played at graduation.
- 3D Model: Send us a photo of your model in advance so we can prepare a space for it. Bring the model to graduation and explain it within a 2-minute presentation.
You will be asked to present your project at the podium during the in-person final session. Staff members of the Planning Department and distinguished members of the Planning Board, County Council, and other elected officials will be invited to attend.
Sample topics and one of many possible solutions:
- Issue: An area floods all the time, a possible solution: a green infrastructure installation
- Issue: An elderly neighbor needs home repairs to continue to live in their home but has a limited income; a possible solution: funds to assist
- Issue: Not safe for kids to bike to school; a possible solution: protected bicycle lanes
- Issue: Problems accessing the river trail; a possible solution: more trailheads/work with parks
- Issue: No grocery store within walking or biking distance; a possible solution: healthy corner stores
Click here to view the presentation slides from the Spring 2025 Academy.
Please submit your final presentation to PGCNPA@ppd.mncppc.org.
If you handwrite an essay, use paper and glue to build a model, or otherwise create a non-electronic presentation, please take a photo of your project and email it.
FINAL PROJECT MILESTONES
After Session 1
Pick an issue, challenge, or concern (topic) in your community.
After Session 2
Research Plan 2035 and active plans in your community to evaluate existing policies, strategies, and recommendations related to your selected topic.
After Session 3
Consider how, when, and who you might engage to implement a solution to your topic.
After Session 4
Consider possible solutions, tradeoffs, and other perspectives and develop an action plan or project.
After Session 5
Complete the draft of the project
After Session 6
Revise and finalize the project, practice the presentation and email project to PGCNPA@ppd.mncppc.org.
Class Directory
Classmates
240-487-3540
Executive Assistant for the City of College Park Planning Department.
Cultural Strategist working at the intersection of community & public engagement, economic development, and art for innovation and cultural tourism.
227-205-9020
Forestry Engineer with experience in land-use planning, territorial organization, and field project management.
240-886-9213
Janae Barber is the Community Outreach Manager for the City of Bowie and has lived in Prince George’s County for over 20 years. She has a passion for people, a calling towards community, and a heart for hospitality.
I’m 65 recent retirement. Trying to get to know my community
I’m a newer homeowner looking to learn more to help my community thrive.
301-943-0255
Attorney in private practice. Vice Chair Prince George’s Economic Development Corporation
240-461-4329
Patrica Clark Jackson is a dedicated Prince George’s County resident who’s committed to fostering sustainable growth and vibrant local spaces. Also, she is passionate about empowering neighbors to take an active role in shaping the future of our shared community.
I serve as a Special Projects Coordinator with the Prince George’s County Department of Health, supporting behavioral health operations, provider engagement, and continuous quality improvement across County initiatives. I’m joining the Neighborhood Planning Academy to strengthen my understanding of planning and development processes and help advance healthier, safer, and more equitable neighborhoods for Prince George’s County residents. A public health and behavioral health operations leader with 20+ years of experience driving policy, quality improvement, and community-based program implementation across county government, health systems, and global partners. He specializes in evidence-based practice oversight, trauma-informed and CHW workforce models, and cross-sector initiatives that advance health equity and measurable outcomes.
301-728-8259
Ralph Cyrus is a Prince George’s native & a community development professional at the National Community Reinvestment Coalition, focused on strengthening nonprofit networks & advancing equitable economic policy. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Maryland Baltimore County, and has experience in public service and community-based work.
Prince George’s County resident, Fort Washington, since 1984. Member, Apple Grove Squire Woods Civic Association. Member, South County Roundtable. Member, Prince George’s County Community Emergency Response Team Member (CERT). State of Maryland, Prince George’s County Sheriff Citizen’s Academy Class 001. Member, John Wesley AME Zion Church, Washington, DC.
301-233-5000
Life long resident of Prince George’s County who has lived in Bowie since 2000. Current 32 year employee of the Maryland-National Capital Park Police.
240-643-8553
I am a data-driven planning and operations professional with a background in space planning, financial analysis, and cross-functional project execution. I am passionate about equitable community development, strategic stewardship, and building systems that translate vision into sustainable, real-world impact.
202-455-9051
I’m a retired resource specialist from Fairfax County VA. I am also a certified substance abuse counselor.
301-518-3967
I am currently the Unit Chief, Common Ownership Communities Unit for Prince George’s County Government. I provide education, training, and mediation for condominiums, homeowner associations, and cooperatives. I have been working in the housing sector for over 25 years.
202-577-6677
I was born and raised in Brooklyn NY, and came to the WDC area by way of a scholarship to Howard University for my Master’s degree. I was born with a physical disability which made me to the young lady that I am today.
301-780-9606
Jennifer Hawkins is the founding manager of the Prince George’s County 311 Call Center, where she led the establishment of a centralized call center connecting residents to non-emergency services and County resources. Through her commitment to customer service, technology integration, and community engagement, she modernized service delivery and strengthened communication between local government and the residents it serves via the 311 On the Go! Program.
301-648-9926
Tax accountant by day and planning hobbyist by night. I have been involved in pedestrian and bicycle advocacy for many years and hoping to expand my knowledge and effectiveness in pushing for better design.
267-901-2560
I am an operations and strategy leader with 16+ years of experience driving growth, optimizing systems, and leading cross-functional teams across education, real estate, and community development. My career has been defined by building scalable systems, executing flawlessly during times of transformation, and creating alignment across stakeholders to unlock organizational growth.
301-377-2587
I am passionate about professional development and community involvement. Actively participating in community development events to foster inclusivity and innovation within my community area. Also, I’m a huge fan of the Washington Commanders; always excited to follow the team’s progress and see how each season unfolds. Plus, a foodie love exploring new restaurants and trying different cuisines, making each dining experience an adventure.
240-972-0517
608-556-9381
I live in the Berwyn neighborhood of College Park, where I work as a federal product manager, serve as a Master Gardener in Prince George’s County, and chair the Parks and Open Spaces Committee for my neighborhood association. I’m excited to be part of the Neighborhood Planning Academy so I can bring back practical ideas for my community and help connect more Prince George’s County residents with hands-on, community-based climate solutions.
202-549-6552
I am a journalist and writer who covers architecture, design and real estate. I also renovate homes and make furniture in my spare time.
I’m a resident of Prince George’s County. I’m excited for this class so I can learn how to better our communities and pass down knowledge to others as well.
202-725-4469
202-297-2272
Jeanine Michael is a Certified Community Health Worker with over 20 years of experience in healthcare revenue cycle management, patient accounts, social services, and care coordination, specializing in connecting members to providers, resources, and plan benefits while identifying care gaps and improving health outcomes. Currently pursuing a B.S. in Social Work at Trinity Washington University, she brings expertise in integrated care management, high-volume contact center operations, and patient advocacy across diverse populations.
I’m an HR professional who is happy to call Maryland home. I’m passionate about professional development and equity. If i could choose, I’d have Fall all year-round, and I enjoy spending time with family.
I am a public health research scientist studying the impacts of the neighborhood built environment (parks, trails, etc.) on physical activity, recreation, and active transportation in adults and families.
I am a native Prince Georgian and active community organizer with a strong interest in civic engagement, government relations, neighborhood advocacy, and informed local decision-making. Through my participation in the Neighborhood Planning Academy, I look forward to deepening my understanding of urban planning and contributing thoughtfully to sustainable, community-focused growth across Prince George’s County.
240-432-6433
Aaron D. Person is a Realtor®, HUD-certified counselor, and creator of 203(k) Done Your Way®, helping buyers, investors, and communities unlock opportunity through renovation financing. Known as a trusted guide—not a salesperson—he educates, strategizes, and leads others to make confident, wealth-building housing decisions.
240-547-8497
Retirees US Gov and IBM. Active in sports, especially pickleball and swimming and I love a good movie and the history channel.
A Prince George’s County native, Architect, and Interior Designer who loves to create spaces that foster community and inspire creativity.
301-641-4855
My name is Pauline Reid, with a background in residential and community solar energy industry, I’ve worked to educate low-income communities about renewable energy during my time at Exelon. I am applying to the Prince George’s County Neighborhood Planning Academy to gain the skills needed to influence local development and engage in sustainable, community-driven planning.
240-602-0080
Birch Solution Services provides permitting guidance, business licensing support, and technical assistance to help residents and entrepreneurs navigate local regulatory processes. Through the Neighborhood Planning Academy, we support the M-NCPPC Prince George’s County Planning Department by increasing access to clear, practical tools that enable compliant, neighborhood-based business development.
Kerritt Saintal, a Hyattsville resident originally from New Orleans, is a dedicated professional with experience in public health, project management, and research. She is committed to delivering efficient solutions and fostering collaboration that benefits diverse populations and communities.
Dedicated community advocate aiming to deepen my impact on local development. As both a homeowner and investment property owner in the county, I bring a grounded, long-term commitment to shaping a thriving and equitable future for my community.
DeMeana Smith is a Travel Agent and the Owner of All In Luxe Travel Agency currently pursuing a B.S. in Urban Planning. As a long time resident of the county, DeMeana is committed to the growth and sustainability of her community.
Rachelle Spencer is a resident of Prince George’s County, Maryland, graduating from Howard University and American University, where she earned her Master of Public Administration degree from the Key Executive Leadership Program. Rachelle Spencer is an active member of the community, serving in several volunteer roles throughout the county and surrounding communities.
301-461-0571
I am a fifth generation Oxon Hill resident. I have a bachelors in environmental planning, a masters in environmental management and am an expert in national surface water regulations, ecological restoration, and cost benefit analyses.
202-445-3238
Lenessa’s extensive career spans healthcare, technology, business development, and real estate. She recently obtained an MBA with a concentration in commercial real estate, positioning herself to make even greater strides in the industry and her community.
University of Maryland ’25. BS Environmental Science & Policy. GIS Minor.
Community-minded resident that is excited to learn more about the planning process in Prince George’s County. Our property and a portion of our neighborhood is located in the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area and it will be helpful to collaborate & learn more about that responsibility.
Ella Williams is a student at the University of Maryland, College Park studying architecture, set to graduate in the spring of 2026, and interested in pursuing a career in urban planning and historic preservation. With a variety of internship and volunteer experiences in the archives and built environment, Ella is excited to participate in the Neighborhood Planning Academy and explore community placemaking.
202-573-2786
dwilson@thecommunityfoundation.org
Executive Director, Greater Washington Community Foundation – Prince George’s County Office, providing strategic leadership for place-based philanthropy, fundholder engagement, and community investment initiatives. Trusted senior executive and advisor with 20+ years of experience across higher education, healthcare, and the nonprofit sector, specializing in governance support, external relations, and complex stakeholder engagement.
Proven leader in major and principal gifts strategy, institutional partnerships, and cross-sector alliance building, with a track record of aligning philanthropic capital, public priorities, and organizational mission to drive measurable community impact. Experienced in advising boards and senior leadership on strategy, resource development, and community relations. Well-positioned to contribute as a board member offering sound judgment, strategic perspective, and relationship capital in support of organizational growth and mission fulfillment.