Housing and Homelessness

INSTRUCTOR(S) INFO

Mercedes Elizalde (Winter)

elizalde@pdx.edu 

Amie Riley (Spring)

amie.riley@pdx.edu

*The instructor for this course may change from term to term.

COURSE CRN

• Spring 2026

  • 63727

• Winter 2026

  • 44078

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Is our region’s homelessness crisis getting worse or getting better? In this Capstone you will dive into the complex challenges of affordable housing and homelessness, confronting our country, city, and campus communities. Students will engage directly with community activists and experts to problem solve and advocate for holistic solutions within our political, economic, and healthcare systems. Course assignments and Capstone student projects will work to change narratives, implement creative actions, and advocate for effective housing policies. Additional community-based learning requirements for this course include 16 hours of in person community engagement.

CONTACT INFO**

Mercedes Elizalde, elizalde@pdx.edu 

Amie Riley, amie.riley@pdx.edu

**The instructor for this course may change depending from term to term.