Law Journal Symposium to explore the future of urban living

LAWRENCE — On Feb. 28, the 2025 Kansas Journal of Law & Public Policy Symposium will host academics, legal scholars and professionals for discussions rooted in the public policy considerations of urban health and sustainability.

"This year's symposium will explore the dynamic relationship between urban policy and the law," said Leah Stein, symposium editor and third-year law student. "Attendees will engage with experts on issues such as land use, housing and infrastructure, gaining insight into the legal frameworks that shape our cities and communities."

"Cities of Tomorrow: Legal Approaches to Urban Health and Sustainability" will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Burge Union on the University of Kansas campus. Check-in and breakfast will begin at 8:30 a.m. This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Lunch will be provided.

Register and preview the complete symposium schedule.

Event speakers:

• Keynote speaker: Quinton Lucas, mayor of Kansas City, Missouri
• Chris Allen, Strong Towns
• Rebecca Bratspies, CUNY School of Law
• Audrey McFarlane, University of Baltimore School of Law
• Joel Mendez, University of Kansas Urban Planning Program
• John Nolon, Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University

The symposium will explore innovative legal and policy strategies to create healthier, more sustainable cities. Speakers will address a range of topics including environmental challenges in urban areas; public transit and mobility; and structural issues of race, class and geography that shape economic development and urban policy.

Scholarship associated with the symposium will be published in an upcoming issue of the Kansas Journal of Law & Public Policy. For more information, contact Stein at leah.stein@ku.edu.