CONFERENCE PROGRAM

2025 Welcoming Remarks

Meredith Cooper, RPP, MCIP | President, API

Welcome to the 2025 Atlantic Planners Institute Conference in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador!

We’re delighted to gather in this remarkable city perched on the edge of the continent — a place shaped by wind, sea, and story. St. John’s, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and resilient spirit, is a fitting host for this year’s theme: “Weathering the Storm.”

Planning in Atlantic Canada has never been more urgent or more complex. From accelerating climate impacts and aging infrastructure to soaring housing demand and shifting demographics, our communities are being put to the test. The storms we face — both literal and metaphorical — are challenging the way we think, plan, and lead.

Yet within these challenges lie possibilities. Across the region, planners are responding with creativity and courage, helping communities adapt, recover, and thrive. Whether navigating policy reform, championing inclusive housing strategies, or advancing climate-resilient design, our profession is at the forefront of change.

This year’s program will explore how planners are meeting the moment. Together, we’ll examine how we can build capacity, foster trust, and strengthen the foundations of our communities, even in times of uncertainty. Most of all, this conference is a space for connection. It’s a chance to step back, share knowledge, and support one another. Whether you’re a seasoned planner or early in your career, we hope you’ll find meaningful dialogue, renewed energy, and a sense of solidarity in St. John’s.

Let’s face the storms ahead — and the opportunities they bring — together.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We respectfully acknowledge the Province of Newfoundland & Labrador, of which the City of St. John’s is the capital City, as the ancestral homelands of the Beothuk. Today, these lands are home to a diverse population of indigenous and other peoples. We would also like to acknowledge with respect the diverse histories and cultures of the Mi’kmaq, Innu, Inuit, and Southern Inuit of this Province.

Kieran Miller, RPP, MCIP | Conference Co-Chair

Welcome everyone! I’m so excited to host you in my hometown of St. John’s. Located at the edge of the North Atlantic, Newfoundland and Labrador has weathered its share of storms, whether economic (cod moratorium), cultural (who serves the best fish & chips?)  or literal (Snowmageddon). Our conference theme this year explores how we rebound from challenges, whether it’s the ongoing housing crisis, impacts of climate change or misinformation on social media. We have an exciting lineup of presenters to explore these topics and share their insights with you. It’s been a pleasure working with my co-chair Fredrick, the conference committee and API on this event.

Fredrick Van Rooyen, RPP, MCIP | Conference Co-Chair

The Atlantic Planners Institute conference is always a wonderful opportunity to come together as a profession, share ideas, network, and support one another. We hope this year’s theme of “Weathering the Storm” will inspire discussion on creative and practical solutions to the challenges facing our communities. On behalf of all those involved in planning the conference, welcome to St. John’s!