Associate Director of Community Planning

Katie Ward is a leader in Community Planning who bridges the gap between people, places, and processes. Leveraging her expertise in federal grant administration, architecture, and urban revitalization, she implements community plans that blend resident and civic values for long-term impact. She excels in galvanizing the support of diverse sectors and stakeholders to stabilize historic communities.

As Steadfast City's inaugural Ohio-based employee, Katie earnestly encourages development throughout the Appalachian region. She excels in targeted stakeholder communication and innovative community engagement activities, fostering sustainable community-developer partnerships. With experience in vacant site and historic building redevelopment, Katie's creative solutions transform spaces into vibrant community assets ensuring both qualitative and quantitative data informs development. Her work embodies a blend of analytical rigor, empathy, and visionary leadership in community development.

Professional Experience

• Stark County Regional Planning Commission - Community Development Planner

• Akers Identity, LLC. - Project Manager, Permitting & Zoning Specialist

Education

• Kent State University -M.S. Architecture and Environmental Design

• Kent State University - B.A. Architectural Studies

  • Minor in Historic Preservation