The University of New Orleans College of Liberal Arts recently named Melissa Ehlinger its 2016 Distinguished Alumna Award, recognizing her achievements in urban planning.
The award is presented each year to College of Liberal Arts graduates who excel in their fields. Ehlinger is working as a project-based consultant in economic development and urban planning, having previously worked with the New Orleans Business Alliance as the senior vice president for strategy and business development. In her time with the business alliance, she oversaw business attraction and retention efforts and its research department, and also served as its interim president and CEO.
Ehlinger earned a master’s degree in urban planning graduate and a bachelor’s degree in political science at the University of Texas, where she was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. She also holds a law degree from George Washington University.
A New Orleans native, Ehlinger’s experience also includes time with the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority, where she gained first-hand urban economic development experience as a project manager for residential and commercial corridor redevelopment. She has also previously worked with the U.S. Department of Transportation as an attorney.
The college presented the award to Ehlinger at the College of Liberal Arts Honors Convocation in the UNO Performing Arts Center Recital Hall.
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