In September 2017, we breathed new life into our classic, interdisciplinary digest Van Alen Report, and after 12 years, we were thrilled to release a deep dive into the complexities of U.S. infrastructure with the help of five distinguished writers from varied backgrounds and perspectives.

In August 2017, we got to the heart of issues of opportunity, density, and infrastructure, asking: How can designers create innovative infrastructure that serves the fullest possible range of a community’s interests—especially communities that are traditionally marginalized and underserved?

In June 2017, we called on our community to think inclusively. We kicked off the summer by engaging the broader public in conversations about place, wellbeing, and collaboration in the design field and beyond.

In May 2017, we asked: How do a city’s arteries shape public expression? In a world of booming populations, what role do architects play in devising innovative opportunities for density in cities? And, can a public space challenge our assumptions about gender?

In April 2017, we announced Building Equity, the winners of Van Alen-sponsored NYSCA Independent Projects grants, and the theme for our spring public programs. It's through collaborative projects like these that we discover new ways for people and cities to give form to one another.

In March 2017, we brought people from all walks of life together in public spaces to take ownership of their neighborhoods, and advocate for positive change to their local and national leaders.

In January 2017, we renewed our longstanding commitment to developing innovative solutions to society’s many challenges, like the effects of climate change, the consequences of gentrification and vacancy, issues of equity, and the impact of our nation’s infrastructure.