Serena Hoermann

Shaping Her Own Outcome

By Lynn Laurenti

Since arriving at FAU in 2014, Serena Hoermann has played a central role in promoting the university’s urban and climate initiatives among planning professionals, environmental scientists and members of the public.

Until 2017, she served within the FAU-based Florida Center for Environmental Studies as coordinator of the Florida Climate Institute, a statewide coalition working to increase understanding of climate variability and the effects of climate change on communities.

For the past two years, she has been program manager of the FAU Partnership for Sustainable Communities, an initiative housed in the Center for Urban and Environmental Solutions that brings together university experts and students to work with local community leaders. Partnership areas include sustainability, resiliency, affordable housing and access to social services, as well as building supportive social networks, integrating historically disenfranchised voices into public decision-making, sustaining a viable local economy, providing clean air and water, maintaining public safety and pursuing other livability standards. Once again, Hoermann is using her organizational and communication skills to promote awareness of and participation in this important initiative.

In addition, she is the founder of the Urban Stories Festival, an annual event held in West Palm Beach that uses storytelling to build community. Activities offered during this imaginative two-day event include urban planning for youth, live dance and musical performances, children’s storytimes, hands-on arts and crafts, and an open mic night for both experienced and first-time storytellers.

Hoermann holds an MBA in marketing and international business from Syracuse University and is pursuing a Ph.D. in public administration with a concentration in urban planning at FAU. She writes children’s books and short stories.

Here is more information about her, in her own words:

When did you develop an interest in urban planning and community building?

A friend and I started an open mic night in 2011, so authors, poets and musicians could share stories in person. We have been meeting monthly ever since. When I joined the School of Urban and Regional Planning, I learned that planners have goals and interests that align with my core beliefs – creating livable, sustainable places for people.

Was there someone who encouraged you early on – a special teacher or mentor?

What is your goal for your outreach work?

Why do you consider FAU the best place to carry out your work?

If you could speak directly to a young person who is considering a career in urban planning/community building, what would you say?

Urban planning encompasses multiple ways to build vibrant communities. Whether you are interested in better solutions in transportation, the environment, housing or sustainability, you can be a change agent for stronger, more inclusive spaces. If you are interested in community building, start with a topic you are passionate about and invite people to join you. Find your tribe or build one yourself, in person if possible.

What do you hope your legacy will be?