Introducing the 2020-2021 Graduate Fellows
Pratt Center is pleased to introduce the 2020-2021 class of Pratt Graduate Fellows:
- Brit Byrd (Planning and Advocacy Fellow)
- Ella Ekstrom (Made in NYC Fellow)
- Shweta Iyer (Planning and Advocacy Fellow)
- Matthew Ladd (Planning and Advocacy Fellow)
- Alexandria Martz (Policy and Sustainability Fellow)
- Ethan Schwimmer (GIS Fellow)
These Fellows join us at a remarkable juncture in our city's history, and are already supporting the work of our staff in planning and advocating for a just recovery and healthy, sustainable communities. The fellowship provides each student with a stipend and the unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in urban planning, community development and economic development.
BRIT BYRD
Planning & Advocacy Fellow
Degree Program: City and Regional Planning
Full Bio
What drew you to the Pratt Center? After previously working in city government, I'm excited to work in support of a variety of community-based organizations in New York, and learn more about processes such as ULURP and major DDC projects from the perspective of advocates and community members.
What’s one random fact about you? Instead of flying, I took a long-distance train to get to California this year—both there and back!
ELLA EKSTROM
Made in NYC Fellow
Degree Program: Arts and Cultural Management
Full Bio
What drew you to the Pratt Center? I was drawn to the mission of Made in NYC. I believe that it is vital for communities to work together to support their members and local businesses, especially during the difficult times we find ourselves in today.
What’s one random fact about you? I'm named after my great-grandmother, Ella. My mom was named after my great-grandmother's mom, Laura. And my grandma is named after my great-grandma's grandma, Margaret.
SHWETA IYER
Planning and Advocacy Fellow
Degree Program: City and Regional Planning
Full Bio
What drew you to the Pratt Center? Having worked in affordable housing in India for a year, I joined Pratt Center because of its mission to build and support communities in the city. Pratt Center was an ideal option to sharpen by abilities, build cultural understanding, and strengthen my skills in resiliency.
What’s one random fact about you? I have a love for Art Deco Buildings, especially, the Empire State Building!
MATTHEW LADD
Planning & Advocacy Fellow
Degree Program: City & Regional Planning
Full Bio
What drew you to the Pratt Center? I'm interested in advocating and connecting policy to housing justice and financial inclusion. Prior to joining Pratt Center, I worked for a nonprofit impact consultancy that worked with international NGO's to develop affordable housing and finance policy.
What’s one random fact about you? I love finding new bridges to ride my bike across.
ALEXANDRIA MARTZ
Policy and Sustainability Fellow
Degree Program: Historic Preservation
Full Bio
What drew you to the Pratt Center?
Research at the intersection of advocacy for BIPOC and working families. It's a unique opportunity to do work that includes legal, planning, and architectural components.
What’s one random fact about you?
I don't have a middle name!
ETHAN SCHWIMMER
GIS Fellow
Degree Program: City and Regional Planning
Full Bio
What drew you to the Pratt Center? I am interested in the intersection of design and data analytics that can help make cities and their residents better adapted to climate-related threats. Through the GIS Fellowship position, I hope to create and enhance programs and tools that can be used by communities to better understand what is happening in their neighborhoods and city.
What’s one random fact about you? I can play 5 instruments: guitar, drums, alto saxophone, clarinet, and piano!