APA Minnesota Chapter

About Us APA Minnesota Chapter

The Minnesota Chapter of the American Planning Association is a non-profit statewide organization of over 900 planning professionals, educators, local officials and planning commissioners who are involved in planning-related activities on behalf of state and regional agencies, counties, cities, towns, educational institutions and the private sector. APA Minnesota is a chapter of the American Planning Association (APA), a non-profit public interest and research organization whose origins date back to 1917.

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APA MN 2026 Planning Conference Register today!

On behalf of the American Planning Association, Minnesota Chapter (APA MN), you are invited to attend our 2026 Planning Conference. The 2026 APA MN Conference will be held in Mankato, MN from October 21,23 2026 at the Mayo Clinic Event Center. The format will be remain the same, we'll kick off with an opening keynote speaker for lunch on Wednesday, all-day conference on Thursday and a morning of educational sessions on Friday.

Our theme this year is: Shaping Minnesota's Future Together
Check out our preliminary conference agenda!

Attendee Registration is open until Monday, October 5, 2026.

(Confirmed speakers: please use the designated link provided in the instructions emailed to you directly)

Attendee Registration

CM Opportunity Walk & Talk: Oxbow Trails

Join the APA MN Women in Planning Committee to explore Belwin's Oxbow Trails with fellow members and planners!

Attendees will hear from Belwin Conservancy and Washington County about the public-private partnership that made this trail project possible and walk the 1.25 miles of woodchipped trails alongside wooded ridges, shaded areas, and Valley Creek.

The walk will be followed by an optional opportunity to grab snacks or ice cream together at Selma's in downtown Afton. (Refreshments at your own expense.)

Things to note:

Please note this walk is about 1.25 miles, plan accordingly with the appropriate footwear and attire.
Walk will be from 3:00 - 4:00 pm
Optional snacks/ ice cream from 4:00 - 5:00 pm
Bring your own waterbottle, sunscreen, shades, and hat/visors.

Please arrive no later than 3pm.

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Please view the invite for full details!

Rising Above Statement from the APA MN Chapter DEI Committee

The APA Minnesota Board of Directors affirms the following statement drafted by the APA Minnesota Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee.

The DEI Committee of the APA MN Chapter wants to make a formal statement regarding the current state of our nation. We aim to support all members during this trying time, regardless of political affiliation or background, as we share common humanity and our planet. We want to provide the Minnesota planning community with words of acknowledgment and encouragement for the years ahead.

To us, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are part of a greater purpose to support human rights. This includes access to clean water, safe and quality shelter, food, and dignity in this complex world we are born into. Today, in 2025, people are still being targeted for discrimination and continue to be systematically marginalized just for existing. Our goal, at minimum, is to facilitate opportunities for everyone to learn, share skills, knowledge, and bring awareness to the ways diverse social and cultural experiences shape our communities. We want you to know we are not staying silent and we will continue supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion especially for those whose human rights have been compromised or are being stripped away. We appreciate the allies who have supported us.

As planners, our primary responsibility—whether AICP-certified or not—is to uphold the public interest. Each of us plays a vital role in shaping communities that are inclusive, equitable, and sustainable. APA MN remains committed to equity within the chapter and affirms that the AICP Code of Ethics continues to guide and hold the standard of ethical and equitable practices within our work. As a chapter and committee, we will actively pursue initiatives, programming, and best practices that empower planners, advance DEI efforts, and reinforce the fundamental principles of human rights within the communities we serve.

Our committee has compiled a list of actions you can take for the future ahead:

● Practice mindfulness.

● Check in on each other and be honest about the circumstances our country is facing.

● Donate supplies, support causes or those in your community that need assistance.

● Foster awareness and accountability by addressing discrimination when you witness it, including recognizing and challenging microaggressions.

● Be cognizant of projects you're working on and any decisions that may impact systematically marginalized groups. Consider pursuing more equitable community engagement processes that involve diverse members of the community during the project.

● Strengthen allyship through open and honest dialogue to people in your community and to other planners from diverse backgrounds by asking thoughtful questions or engaging in conversations.

● Take the time to continue to learn. There is always room to grow and we encourage you to embrace opportunities for learning about cultural histories and experiences. Whether through reading, watching, listening, or other media. The DEI committee has a list of reading materials and videos that we’ve included on our webpage as a start to deepen understanding about confronting discrimination and fostering equity. Whether you're just beginning this journey or continuing your efforts, expanding your knowledge will empower all of us to build a more inclusive and supportive environment for ourselves and each other.

● Join us at Minnesota Chapter events and learning opportunities to further expand your learning and find connection with other planning professionals.

Please see our work plan for the year and feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns: mnapa.dei@gmail.com.

Sincerely,

APA MN Chapter and DEI Committee Co-chairs, Kendra Ellner and Denetrick Powers

DEI Committee Page