Dr. Ann Forsyth

Biography

Ann Forsyth is the Ruth Frank Stanton Professor of Urban Planning at Harvard Graduate School of Design. She has an extensive background in planning and architecture, focusing on the social aspects of physical planning and urban development. Forsyth's research primarily revolves around creating sustainable and healthy cities in a rapidly suburbanizing world, with particular insights into aging planned communities. She has contributed to key areas of research and practice, documenting innovative high-density planning and design for suburban and metropolitan areas. Her work tackles complex issues such as achieving walkability, planning for higher density affordable housing, and supporting social diversity while balancing social and ecological values. Forsyth evaluates and proposes physical changes to the environment to enhance public health, analyzing various elements including physical activity and food environments. She utilizes geographic information systems, fieldwork, surveys, and public participation processes in her research. Forsyth is actively involved in bridging the gap between research and practice. Her educational background includes a B.Sc. in architecture from the University of Sydney, an M.A. in urban planning from UCLA, and a Ph.D. in city and regional planning from Cornell University.

Research Interests

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