Dennis Keating, Ph.D., Emeritus Professor of Urban Studies at the Levin College of Public Affairs and Education, has been selected to receive the highly esteemed 2024 Urban Affairs Association (UAA) Contribution to the Field of Urban Affairs Award. The UAA is recognized as the premier global professional association for urban scholars, researchers, and public service professionals. This distinguished accolade recognizes an exceptional individual whose substantial contributions have helped to shape and advance the field, while also inspiring the next generation of scholars.  

Dr. Keating’s impact crosses the academic pillars demonstrating distinguished contribution to the field of urban affairs. He informed the field for decades through his thought leadership spanning ten books and one hundred and six journal articles, edited books, and book chapters. Dr. Keating’s influence on shaping the next generation of public impact professions through his classroom contributions focused on the areas of shrinking cities, housing, neighborhood development, urban planning, and land use law, as well as the Planning Capstone Studio and Contemporary Urban Issues.  

Dr. Keating's ongoing advancements have significantly benefited numerous communities. A few highlights of his engagement include his services as the President of the Housing and Built Environment Research Council of the International Sociological Association and a 2003 Visiting Fellow at the Department of Urban Studies, University of Glasgow, sharing his expertise to positively impact housing and community development on both local and global scales. As an emeritus faculty member, Dr. Keating remains active in the field and in serving Levin College. His most recent publication on Cleveland, Ohio's role in the U.S. Civil War is a testament to his ongoing dedication. Additionally, he served on the Board of Future Heights, a local CDC in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, gives talks about equitable housing development, and Co-Chaired the Levin College’s 2024 Norm Krumholz Speaker Series on the Future of Urban Planning.  

"We are incredibly fortunate to have Dr. Keating as an esteemed colleague who fully embodies the values of our college: inspiring communities with innovative ideas, partnering for urban transformation, and fostering a just and equitable environment. He inspires all of us to keep making a difference for the betterment of our community," said Jill Gordon, Dean and Professor, Levin College of Public Affairs and Education.    

A sincere thank you to Levin College of Public Affairs & Education faculty and alumni for leading the recognition of Dr. Keating’s work: Dr. Beth Nagy, Associate Lecturer in Planning Practice at Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs, Dr. Wendy Kellogg, Professor of Urban and Environmental Planning and Director of Levin College’s Master of Urban Planning and Development Program and Bob Jaquay, Levin College Alumni, and current senior fellow.  

UAA will present the award during its International Conference on Urban Affairs on April 24, 2024.