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Bonnie Johnson Joins JAPA as Book Review Editor

The American Planning Association (APA) has announced an exciting new appointment in the field of urban planning. Bonnie J. Johnson, PhD, FAICP, has been named the book review editor of the Journal of the American Planning Association (JAPA). In this role, Johnson will oversee the evaluation and review of books and other publications that tackle key topics within the planning profession.

A Rich Background in Planning and Academia

Dr. Johnson is currently the assistant director of the School of Public Affairs and Administration at the University of Kansas, where she also serves as a professor of urban planning. Her academic credentials are as impressive as her professional background. With over four years committed to her role at JAPA, Johnson will focus on offering insightful perspectives and critical analyses that benefit practitioners in the planning community.

Yan Song, PhD, the editor of JAPA, expressed enthusiasm about Johnson’s appointment, noting her extensive skills and diverse experience within the realms of teaching and planning practice. He remarked, "Professor Johnson’s scholarship and her commitment to the ethical dimensions of planning represent an invaluable asset for our editorial team. Her dedication ensures that JAPA will continue to deliver high-quality insights for practitioners."

The Role of Book Review Editor

As book review editor, Dr. Johnson will play a crucial role in shaping the dialogue around critical issues in urban planning. By providing thorough reviews, she will contribute to the dissemination of knowledge necessary for informed decision-making in planning practices. Her background, which includes a notable tenure as a city planner in Amarillo, Texas, and Johnson County, Kansas, further enhances her capability to weave practical insights into academic discussions.

Dr. Johnson's past accolades underscore her qualifications. She has served as a city planner for eight years, where she notably managed significant projects including the acclaimed "Blueprint for Liberty Land Use Plan," which won the APA Outstanding Planning Award in 2000. Furthermore, in 2020, she was inducted into the prestigious AICP College of Fellows—one of the highest honors achievable in the planning profession. Currently, she is also engaged as the professional development officer for the Kansas Chapter of APA and has been an active member of the AICP Ethics Committee.

A Century of Scholarly Contributions

Since its inception over a century ago, JAPA has served as a double-blind, peer-reviewed platform for sharing original research, commentaries, and essential book reviews that serve the planning profession. By joining this esteemed journal, Dr. Johnson will collaborate closely with Dr. Yan Song and the editorial board to maintain and elevate the quality and relevance of published content.

With JAPA’s vast outreach and APA’s large membership base, Dr. Johnson's work is set to influence thousands of planners, scholars, and policymakers. This appointment not only marks a significant step in her professional career but also promises to enrich the conversations around urban planning in the years to come.

About the American Planning Association

The American Planning Association is a revered not-for-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of communities through effective planning. With nearly 40,000 members ranging from civic leaders to community residents, APA is committed to creating engaging spaces that foster civic involvement and social equity. Its mission is to promote preparedness and thoughtful decision-making to ensure active, vibrant communities.

In conclusion, Bonnie J. Johnson’s appointment as the book review editor of JAPA is both a testament to her impressive track record and an opportunity for the planning community to engage deeply with relevant literature. It fosters an environment rich in knowledge and collaboration, essential for navigating the complexities of urban development and community planning.