Paola Alejandra Paez Hernandez

Community Planning Fellow • 2025

University/College City College

Bio

Alejandra Paez is pursuing a Master’s in Urban Design at CCNY’s Spitzer School of Architecture. Originally from Colombia, she earned her professional architecture degree and license to practice architecture, combining formal training with extensive practical expertise. She spent several years at Bogotá’s Urban Development Institute (IDU), contributing to the Technical Project Division on public space and metropolitan-scale transportation initiatives. There, she applied her architectural knowledge to projects that integrated sustainability strategies, urban mobility planning, and community-centered design, creating spaces that address environmental challenges while responding to the diverse needs of local residents. Drawn to New York’s legacy of social inclusion and innovation, her graduate studies have sharpened her focus on social justice, environmental responsibility, and the circular economy. Alejandra believes intentional, thoughtful design is essential to building cities where all residents feel a sense of belonging, ownership, and empowerment. Outside of her academic and professional work, she enjoys traveling, discovering hidden urban gems, connecting with nature, and engaging with diverse communities to better understand their spatial, social, and cultural needs, further informing her design approach.