Southern Miss alum inducted into AICP College of Fellows

Kara W. Drane, FAICP, Department Manager, Planning for Colliers Engineering & Design, was recently recognized for her outstanding work and dedication in the urban planning field by being one of the few in the country selected to hold the title of American Institute of Certified Planners Fellow. The achievement stands as the pinnacle of honor in the planning profession.

A former city planner for the City of Hattiesburg, Drane’s remarkable achievement reflects her dedication to the profession and her commitment to building sustainable, equitable communities. She is a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Community and Regional Planning, laying the foundation for her illustrious career in urban planning.

“Members who have earned the FAICP designation are the true leaders of the planning profession,” remarked Karen Wolf, FAICP, President of AICP, emphasizing Drane’s significant impact on the planning community.

With a distinguished 30-year career in planning, Drane’s journey includes noteworthy roles such as Senior Planner at the Catawba Regional Council of Governments, Rock Hill, South Carolina; Planning Director in Forrest County, Mississippi; and Planning Administrator in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Her expertise and leadership have been instrumental in shaping various communities and advancing the planning field.

Drane’s induction into the College of Fellows is a tribute to her performance in professional practice, teaching, research, community service, and leadership. As one of 33 inductees in the 2024 Class of Fellows, her contributions will be honored at the upcoming Fellows of AICP Induction Ceremony during the APA National Planning Conference in Minneapolis.

Acknowledging the support from her colleagues and mentors, Drane expressed her gratitude for the recognition and vowed to continue shaping a better future for all through her work. She extends her appreciation to the American Planning Association (APA) Mississippi Chapter for sponsoring her nomination and recognizes the support from the Hazard Mitigation and Disaster Recovery Planning Division of the APA.

As Drane prepares to join the ranks of the planning profession’s elite, her journey from local planner to national fellow is set as an inspiration for aspiring planners across the country. And her recognition highlights the significance of her contributions and the impact she has made on urban planning.