We are in a moment in our collective human development where intersectionality drives our understanding of the world, and guides how we learn, talk, and act about it. The Lindy Institute for Urban Innovation undergirds the work being done in the classroom of the new Master of Urban Strategy program, encouraging students to keep an eye on the constantly evolving world around them as they take in information from their books, their faculty, and their peers.

Drexel is an academically comprehensive and globally engaged urban research university, dedicated to advancing knowledge and society, and providing every student with a valuable, rigorous, experiential, technology-infused education. The Lindy Institute adds to this their robust Fellows program, bringing active players to the table to teach and advise students, as well as organizing conferences, generating publications and offering research opportunities that students can take advantage of.

Long plagued by postwar disinvestment, depopulation and deindustrialization, Philadelphia's population has increased steadily over the past 10 years, adding more than 78,000 residents since 2006. With this increase in population, has come a dramatic increase in construction, along with investment in quality of life amenities such as parks and waterfronts. Within this context, Philadelphia's mayor, James Kenney, is leading a $600M effort to rebuild the city's parks, recreation centers and libraries and fund a universal pre-K program underwritten by a landmark sweetened beverage tax. Still, more than 26% of Philadelphians live below the federal poverty level giving us the unfortunate distinction of being the poorest of the 10 largest cities in the United States.

This moment of rapid global urbanization along with Philadelphia's and Drexel's recent growth and revitalization presents Drexel with a unique opportunity to position Philadelphia as an international thought center at the intersection of dynamic urbanization trends. The Masters of Urban Strategy program invites its students to study and innovate, learn best practices and demonstrate leadership in urban resilience. The Lindy Institute is available to students throughout their time at Drexel, connecting students outward through their interests and their work, and setting them up for success beyond their graduate experience.

Lindy Institute for Urban Innovation