Rachel Weber Biography

Rachel Weber works as a Professor at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design (GSD) in the Department of Urban Planning and Design where she teaches as a leading urban planner and political economist and economic geographer. Through her research she reveals how financial markets now determine the development of cities through their role in infrastructure funding and asset management and urban development processes.

The Urban Affairs Association honored Dr. Weber with the Best Book Award for her 2015 publication From Boom to Bubble: How Finance Built the New Chicago. Through her work as co-editor of the Oxford Handbook of Urban Planning she helped establish the evolving relationship between finance and governance and design in the field. Through her research and policy reports she has shaped both academic and municipal policy discussions through more than fifty peer-reviewed articles.

Dr. Weber’s impact extends beyond research. Dr. Weber participated in two significant advisory roles: President Obama's Urban Policy Advisory Committee (2008) and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel's Tax Increment Financing Reform Task Force (2011) where she provided guidance on public finance and economic development and inclusive policy implementation. She provides consulting services to planning agencies and community groups and governments to apply her knowledge in practical settings.

The educational background of Rachel includes a B.A. in Development Studies from Brown University and M.R.P. and Ph.D. degrees in City and Regional Planning from Cornell University. During her time as a Fulbright Scholar in Kolkata India she received Cornell’s dissertation award for her critical analysis of post-Cold-War economic restructuring.

As a renowned expert and highly sought-after speaker, Rachel Weber's expertise is in high demand. To book Rachel Weber for your next event, conference, or workshop, please contact our speaker booking agency. Our experienced team will work closely with you to understand your specific needs and help secure Rachel Weber's participation. With our professional guidance and seamless booking process, you can ensure a memorable and impactful experience for your audience. Don't miss the opportunity to engage your audience with Rachel Weber's compelling insights and inspire positive change within your organization. Fill out the booking request form to take the first step in securing Rachel Weber for your next speaking engagement.