“Richard’s pathbreaking writing and research predicted the rise of the creative class driving the renaissance in many cities today, including Philadelphia.” — President John Fry.
Drexel, Thomas Jefferson University and the University City Science Center named Richard Florida, a distinguished scholar known for his groundbreaking research on urban demographic changes, as the inaugural recipient of the Philadelphia Fellowship.
The Philadelphia Fellowship — a collaborative program initiated by the three partner institutions — invites thought leaders and scholars to Philadelphia for year-long research engagements focused on pressing urban issues, such as inclusive economic growth, infrastructure renewal and smart infrastructure.
Florida will focus on Philadelphia’s affordable housing and human capital gaps, and the role of large-scale local institutions in identifying potential solutions. Findings will be shared at three major public engagements, culminating in a research publication to be released in late 2019.
“Richard Florida is the foremost scholar on the challenges and opportunities facing cities,” President John Fry says. “At the same time, Drexel’s partnership with the University City Science Center and Thomas Jefferson University underscores the central role that anchor institutions play in ensuring the innovation economy creates opportunities for everyone.”