Leadership

Professor Talen is Professor of Urbanism at the University of Chicago and her research is devoted to urban design and urbanism, especially the relationship between the built environment and social equity.

She has a PhD in urban geography from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Her research is devoted to urban design and urbanism, especially the relationship between the built environment and social equity. Her books include: New Urbanism and American Planning, Design for Diversity, Urban Design Reclaimed, and City Rules. She also has several edited volumes – the most recent one is Retrofitting Sprawl: Addressing 70 Years of Failed Urban Form. She is the recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship (2014-15), and is a Fellow of the American Institute of Certified Planners. Her next book is called Neighborhood.

As Executive Director, Brian manages operations of the Mansueto Institute’s programs, including events, fellowships, and support services, and helps develop strategic programs and partnerships within and outside of the University of Chicago. Prior to joining the institute, Brian held roles both in industry and at the University of Chicago, managing social sector programming and lifelong learning for alumni in the Office of Alumni Relations and Development. Brian holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Anthropology from the University of Colorado, a master’s degree in Social Science from the University of Chicago, and a PhD in Anthropological Archaeology from the University of Chicago. His research focused on South Asian colonial urbanism, specifically the processes of abandonment and ruination associated with declining urban environments and the way these spaces come to be reimagined and repurposed by different social groups. He recently authored the book The City of Facades: Archaeology, History, and Urbanism in Velha Goa, published by Primus Books.

Aimee Giles is the Associate Director for Events and Programs at the Mansueto Institute, overseeing all Institute colloquia, workshops, symposiums, and other events. She also plays an important role in program initiatives and outreach projects. Prior to joining the Institute, Aimee was the Event and Travel Consultant for the Kavli Institute for Cosmological Physics at the University of Chicago for well over a decade. There she oversaw the Institute’s Events and Visitors Program. Aimee also has an extensive background in corporate event planning. She volunteers with several nationally recognized organizations such as NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Illness), Purpose Over Pain and Strides for Peace. Aimee is the recipient of the Vessel of Strength Award for her dedication to assisting underserved communities. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Marquette University.