Researchers

Mariela Fernandez

Clemson University Researcher of Park and Tourism Spaces

Background Information

Attained B.S and M.S. in Recreation, Park, and Tourism Sciences from Texas A&M University.
Ph.D. in Recreation, Sport, and Tourism from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Currently works at Clemson researching the implementation of equitable green spaces in predominantly Latinx communities.

Interview Synopsis

Since Mariela having previous experience working with college students to go out to communities in need and create more equitable resource availability, she knows the best method for reaching out to and interacting with any given community. She emphasized the importance of creating connections with residents, and even suggested getting clubs at SCGSSM involved with the space in question. The biggest takeaway she left us with is that each and every project is unique, and thus you must take on each project with a fresh perspective. Mariela also warned us of the threat of gentrification, as it is a huge concern when creating green spaces in communities of need. Therefore, it's imperative that one is aware of city policies and rent prices for the area in consideration.

Quotes

"Don't expect that one thing will work for another community without listening to the members first."
"Green Space improves the health of citizens and increases the quality of life."
"Once these [green] spaces are created, come back and visit and stay invested in the project."
"Make sure that you build a strong connection with residents that can transcend [the problem of leadership turnover] when the project is shifted into other hands."

Listen to the interview here!

GMT20201105-140719_Kathryn-de.mp4

Natan Teklemariam

Assistant Professor at Clemson University as well as a researcher on urban policy

Background Information

Nathan Teklemariam is an Assistant Professor at Clemson University’s College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences, Political Science Department. Teklemariam attained his Ph.D. In Public Policy & Administration at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in 2021. His research focuses on urban policy centered around housing, neighborhood change, and economic development through the lens of equity and justice both at the national and global scale. Teklemariam also engages in comparative public administration research examining relationships between political/bureaucratic systems, political/administrative actors and processes and differences in public service delivery..

Interview Synopsis

Nathan Teklemariam is a researcher with a passion for urban development, during our interview he shared his insights from his fascinating dissertation on spatial and social equity in a housing development program in Ethiopia. His survey delved into the perceptions of residents regarding transportation, access to essential services like schools and government offices, as well as the dynamics of social networks and community integration.

The interview then took a turn toward his urban policy research, where Nathan talked about complex zoning issues and the challenges posed by single-family housing regulations. He emphasized the interconnectedness of urban problems, stressing the need for holistic policies that simultaneously address housing, education, and biking infrastructure.

Throughout the interview, Nathan talked about strategies for improving neighborhoods through well-crafted housing policies, including zoning reforms, smart growth principles, and innovative public-private partnerships. He also acknowledged the challenges of addressing housing affordability and overcoming community resistance to change.

Quotes

"Urban issues are interconnected, and it's crucial to; address the complexities of zoning regulations and; challenges in single-family housing."

"Improving neighborhoods requires a comprehensive approach to housing policy."

Listen to the interview here!

Interview

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