URBAN COLLOQUIUM I FALL 2025
This fall, the MS Design and Urban Ecologies’ Urban Colloquium I explores the urgent need to rethink our relationship to land. It examines how treating land solely as a commodity has failed most communities across the city, showing how concentrated control and rising housing costs have become root causes of the homelessness and housing crisis in New York City. This speaker series will bring together progressive policymakers, land defenders, and community members to share their stories of struggle and resilience. Through these conversations, guest and students will discuss strategies and tactics that challenge existing norms and build a shared vision for the just, inclusive city we all want to live in.
Understanding Homelessness in NYC .
Wednesday, October 8, 2025, 5:30 to 6:30 pm
Room 601, New School University Center
63 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY
Martha Kenton is the Chief of Staff for HELP USA. She has worked in government and nonprofit organizations for over 20 years focusing on issues related to homelessness, housing and poverty alleviation programs. Starting her career in Chicago as a family case manager in child welfare, her professional journey brought her to New York City in 2001. She joined the Adult Services Division of the NYC Department of Homeless Services after completing a Master of Social Work. She has since then worked for the New York City Office of Emergency Management, Center for Urban Community Services (CUCS), and NYC Department of Social Services. From 2016 to 2024, Martha led the New York City Continuum of Care as the Executive Director and Collaborative Applicant Co Chair.
