Amanda Johnson Ashley

Amanda Johnson Ashley is a Professor specializing in urban revitalization, arts-driven economic development, and military base redevelopment within the Urban Studies and Community Development Department. Her work bridges academic research with practical urban policy applications through public/private partnerships and civic collaboration.

Her academic credentials include:

• PhD in City and Regional Planning from the University of Pennsylvania
• Master of Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Minnesota
• Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Studies from Northwestern University

Dr. Ashley's research centers on how arts and entertainment function as catalysts for urban transformation, examining planned arts districts across major U.S. cities. Her secondary focus analyzes defense investment impacts and former military base redevelopment strategies. She actively contributes to sustainable urban development frameworks addressing economic growth, housing policy, and community engagement through creative placemaking approaches.

Recent publications (2023-2025) reveal a concentrated exploration of diversity in cultural districts, municipal arts planning methodologies, historic preservation intersections, and creative economy dynamics - demonstrating consistent emphasis on community-centered urban development.

Her scientific recognition includes:

• Doctoral Fellowship from the University of Pennsylvania (2007-2010)
• Outstanding Planning Merit Award for Design for Health (2008)
• Western Social Science Association New Scholar Award (2015)

Dr. Ashley secured Boise State University funding for military base redevelopment research and led a graduate project with Boise's Department of Art and History studying artist residencies. She serves as Mission Advancement Vice Chair for the Urban Land Institute's Idaho Chapter, regularly presenting at national planning conferences while contributing policy reports to institutions like the Penn Institute of Urban Research.

Her work directly supports UN Sustainable Development Goals related to sustainable cities and inclusive communities through evidence-based urban development strategies.