Orange County’s Alissa Barber Torres Inducted into the 2020 Florida Class of Fellows of the American Institute of Certified Planners

The highest honor the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) grants a member is election into the College of Fellows. Fellowship is bestowed to planners who have provided outstanding contributions to the profession for an extended period of time and have been a member of the AICP in good standing for a minimum of 15 years. Alissa Barber Torres, chief planner for the Orange County Transportation Planning Division, was recently notified of her induction into the 2020 Florida Class of Fellows.

Torres, PhD, AICP, CLTD, has dedicated her 25-year career to planning practice, planning education, professional and community service, and leadership, including extensive service to the profession at the local, state and national levels. A resident of Edgewood, she has worked for the County’s Planning, Environmental & Development Services Department for 12 ½ years and the Transportation Planning Division for nine years.

“The nominees for the College of Fellows all demonstrated excellence in professional practice, teaching and mentoring, research, public and community service, and leadership,” said Allison Megrath, AICP, APA Florida professional development officer. “They exhibited exceptional leadership, innovation and excellence, creating a legacy for their communities.”

Torres’ strong commitment to students and emerging planners includes teaching at two Florida universities, volunteer service, mentoring and outreach to underserved K-12 students. Her professional experience, academic contributions, focus on inclusivity and equity for underserved communities, as well as planning projects in Orange County have supported the practice of planning and generations of planners in Central Florida.

Her tireless work and dedication have enhanced our community’s development, facilities and quality of life.