• Refine Your Search:

Back to All News
1/07/2019

Spotlight on Alumna Michelle Sofge: Strategic Planning and Urban Development Consultant in Tel Aviv, Israel

 

Alumna Michelle Sofge (BA ’05) is a consultant with an urban development and strategic planning firm in Tel Aviv, Israel. She received her BA in Art History and Asian Studies from Florida State University in 2005. Michelle became interested in architectural history, the built environment, and city planning and development during her time in the Department of Art History. She relocated to Tel Aviv after obtaining her BA and began preparing for her MA in Art History and Urban Studies at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Michelle focuses on the intersection between visual culture and the human landscape, as well as the theories and policies of architectural conservation.

 

After receiving her MA, Michelle worked on conservation policies for the Israel National Commission for UNESCO and then as Head of Urban Affairs for the Tel Aviv Municipality, where she was responsible for the “smart city” and “creative city” initiatives. She currently works as a consultant on urban regeneration, sustainable tourism, and economic development projects. Michelle writes:

The Art History program sparked my interest in the urban landscape and built environment and taught me to use a critical approach to visual culture. This laid the foundations for my current professional activities. Ultimately, my undergraduate experience at FSU was invaluable for both my personal and professional development.