Events

Norman Krumholz Speaker Series on the Future of Urban Planning

Honoring a Legacy, Inspiring the Future
Hosted by the Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs 

About the Series 

The Norman Krumholz Speaker Series celebrates the life and work of Norman Krumholz—renowned urban planner, champion of equity, and former Director of City Planning for the City of Cleveland. His leadership in developing the 1974 Cleveland Policy Planning Report established a national model for equity-focused municipal planning. 

Each year, the series convenes students, scholars, practitioners, and community leaders to explore the ongoing role of equity in urban planning. Signature elements of the series include: 

  • Keynote lectures from nationally recognized leaders in the field 

  • Panel discussions featuring experts, alumni, and civic changemakers 

  • Student-practitioner roundtables to bridge theory and practice 

  • Special publications and tributes that honor influential voices in planning 

Whether marking the anniversary of a milestone plan or spotlighting emerging work in equity and community development, the series fosters rich, cross-sector dialogue about building more just and inclusive cities. 

Reflecting on the 2024 Krumholz Speaker Series 

The 2024 Norman Krumholz Speaker Series, held in October and hosted by the Levin School of Urban Affairs, commemorated the 50th anniversary of the 1974 Cleveland Policy Plan. The event continued the tradition of honoring Norman Krumholz’s legacy while advancing contemporary conversations on equitable urban planning. 

This year's highlights included: 

  • A compelling keynote address by esteemed scholar Dr. June Manning Thomas 

  • Panel discussions on housing justice, sustainable development, and inclusive policy 

  • Student-practitioner roundtables connecting future planners with community leaders 

  • A networking social sponsored by the Cuyahoga Land Bank, in honor of Gus Frangos 

Couldn’t make it—or want to revisit the insights shared? Watch the 2024 Krumholz Speaker Series 

Scholarship Support 

Proceeds from the event benefit the Norman and Virginia Krumholz Endowed Scholarship Fund, supporting students committed to careers in urban planning and public service. 

 Make a gift today and help shape the next generation of equity-driven leaders. 

Get Involved 

The 2025 Krumholz Speaker Series Advisory Committee is currently seeking new members! If you're interested in helping plan next year’s event, we invite you to participate. 

Complete the interest form to get involved: Join the 2025 Planning Committee 

Have questions? Contact us at LevinCollege@csuohio.edu