Mar. 12, 2026 at 3:25pm

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Fort Worth Assistant City Manager Dana Burghdoff has been named to the 2026 Class of Fellows of the American Institute of Certified Planners, the highest honor awarded by the planning profession. Burghdoff was selected in recognition of her achievements and contributions to planning practice and leadership.

Why it matters

The College of Fellows is a prestigious group of planners who have demonstrated excellence in their field and made lasting, positive impacts on the planning profession. Burghdoff’s selection highlights Fort Worth’s commitment to urban planning and development, and her leadership will help shape the city’s future.

The details

Burghdoff was one of 55 planners nationwide selected for this year’s College of Fellows. Fellowship is granted to planners who have achieved certification through the American Institute of Certified Planners and demonstrated excellence in professional practice, teaching and mentoring, research, public and community service, and leadership.

Burghdoff was named assistant city manager in 2020.She previously served as Fort Worth’s assistant planning and development director for 13 years.Burghdoff will be formally inducted into the College of Fellows on April 26, 2026 at the National Planning Conference in Detroit.
The players

Dana Burghdoff

Fort Worth’s assistant city manager who oversees a portfolio that includes the Planning Office, Greenspace Initiatives, Code Compliance, Economic Development, Library, Neighborhood Services, and Park & Recreation departments.

American Institute of Certified Planners

The professional institute of the American Planning Association that awards the prestigious College of Fellows designation to planners who have demonstrated excellence in the field.

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What they’re saying

“Being selected as a fellow for the American Institute of Certified Planners is a tremendous honor for me. I’m humbled by the recognition. I thank my peers for recognizing the dedication I have for city planning and making positive change with our community partners here in Fort Worth.”

— Dana Burghdoff, Assistant City Manager (City of Fort Worth)

What’s next

Burghdoff will be formally inducted into the College of Fellows at the National Planning Conference in Detroit on April 26, 2026.

The takeaway

Dana Burghdoff’s selection as a Fellow of the American Institute of Certified Planners underscores Fort Worth’s commitment to thoughtful urban planning and development. Her leadership and expertise will help shape the city’s future growth and ensure it remains a vibrant, livable community.