Nancy Hofer
An evaluation of neighbourhood sustainability assessment frameworks using ecosystems characteristics and principles of systems resilience as the evaluation criteria
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
My background is in ecological sciences and I have a strong interest in land use. I wanted to use my scientific background to apply to decision-making of human communities, which is something that had to be explored through an additional degree in planning.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I lived in Vancouver and did not want to move. Vancouver is a wonderful place to live and UBC is a beautiful campus. My program also had a strong reputation for sustainable community planning which was exactly what I wanted to do.
What do you hope to accomplish with your research?
I hope to put forward the idea of eco-mimicry in design of communities. Bio-mimicry is a well-established concept already used in the manufacturing of goods. These principles are yet not being applied to community development. My research proposes a number of tangible, implementable ideas in community design, particularly at the neighbourhood scale, which I would like to see studied further. I hope to publish my work as an article or possibly as a book which would also include the post-occupancy evaluation study (social-evaluation) of False Creek North.
What are your future career goals?
I hope to work in local government, the private sector and non-profit sector for at least 25 years and then return to University to do my PhD on how these organizations work together to influence sustainable/resilient community development. I expect a research question to formulate after so many years practicing in the field. I value the reflective and in-depth thinking that can be done in academia and I think that would be a great way to conclude my active career in planning.
What has been your most memorable Vancouver experience so far?
Vancouver is viewed internationally as being at the forefront of sustainable community planning. This resulted in rich practical learning experiences wherein I could access the people who were at the forefront of this work. I feel that I have a strong understanding of the "cutting-edge" in my field. Having the pleasure of working with so many professionals who are at this edge was very exciting and memorable.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Take every opportunity you get to work with professors and practitioners. They have a wealth of experience that cannot always be shared in a classroom setting. Some of the professors and practitioners I worked with continue to provide mentorship to me today.