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Ava Donnelly

Ava Donnelly is a Buffalo-based economic development practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in adaptive reuse and downtown revitalization across Western New York. She has worked on mixed-use conversions near Buffalo’s medical campus and actively mentors early-career professionals pursuing certifications like EDP. Ava’s writing combines on-the-ground project knowledge, funding strategies, and workforce development insights, helping readers apply proven lessons to their own communities.

Career Growth in Government Advancing Your Public Sector Career in Urban Planning
Urban Projects

Career Growth in Government: Advancing Your Public Sector Career in Urban Planning

A career in government urban planning offers the unique opportunity to shape communities, influence policy, and contribute to the long-term development of cities. However, ...

Ava Donnelly
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How Cities are Adapting to Climate Change Urban Resilience and Sustainability
Local Leaders

How Cities are Adapting to Climate Change: Urban Resilience and Sustainability

Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it’s a present reality affecting cities across the globe. Rising temperatures, increased flooding, and extreme weather events ...

Ava Donnelly
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How Mentorship Can Accelerate Your Career in Economic Development
Local Leaders

How Mentorship Can Accelerate Your Career in Economic Development

Breaking into economic development can feel challenging, especially for early-career professionals. While formal education and certifications provide knowledge, mentorship offers the guidance, real-world insight, ...

Ava Donnelly
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Urban Sprawl vs. Sustainable Development Finding a Balance for Future Cities
Career Growth

Urban Sprawl vs. Sustainable Development: Finding a Balance for Future Cities

Cities across the world are expanding rapidly, often without the long-term planning needed to keep growth sustainable. This uncontrolled expansion, known as urban sprawl, ...

Ava Donnelly
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