Amanda Burden, FAICP, serves as the principal of urban planning at Bloomberg Associates, an international philanthropic consulting service founded by Michael Bloomberg that helps mayors around the world improve the quality of life of their citizens.

From 2002-2013, Amanda served as the New York City planning commissioner. As commissioner, she spearheaded the largest planning effort in the city since 1961, initiating comprehensive rezoning plans for 124 neighborhoods—almost 40% of the city—and catalyzing significant new housing opportunities in diverse communities throughout New York City’s five boroughs. A champion of design excellence, Amanda emphasized community consensus-building to improve the city’s streetscape, reclaim the waterfront, and create dynamic public spaces including the East River Esplanade and the High Line.

Amanda holds a Master of Science degree in Urban Planning from Columbia University, a Bachelor of Arts degree from Sarah Lawrence College, and an Honorary Doctor of Law from Columbia University. She has been a member of the Council for Foreign Relations since 2014.