Chris Spahr

Urban Innovation Fellow
Lindy Institute for Urban Innovation

Chris Spahr is the Executive Director of the Dornsife Center for Neighborhood Partnerships and holds a Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Previously, he served as the Executive Director of the Centennial Parkside Community Development Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on equitable redevelopment in the East Parkside neighborhood of West Philadelphia. In this role, he supported residents in preserving, promoting, and revitalizing their community.

Chris brings a diverse background, having worked in East Africa and South America, as well as in youth development in Harrisburg and urban planning in the private sector in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. His career has been shaped by a deep commitment to service, continually working to help communities reach their fullest potential.