Western Washington University
Nominated by Tamara Laninga, Ph.D.
Study Urban Planning is proud to recognize Ladislao “Laddi” Quintanilla as our Spring 2026 Student of the Quarter. The Student of the Quarter program was created to spotlight outstanding urban planning students from across the country who are making meaningful contributions to their academic communities and demonstrating a strong commitment to the future of planning.
Laddi was selected for their passion for spatial justice, housing equity, Indigenous planning, and community-centered futures. Their work and academic focus reflect the values that drive the planning profession forward: equity, sustainability, and a deep commitment to building stronger communities.
When asked about their path in planning and what inspires their work, Laddi shared:
"I am someone who cares deeply about just and fair futures, free communities, and the question of how we share space with more care, responsibility, and imagination than our current systems are conducive to. This describes where my interest in planning, housing, Indigenous studies, and spatial justice align.
Carrying my Chamoru heritage, I try to foster a relationship to place, community, and collective wellbeing that guides me toward meaningful work and the kind of futures worth helping build.
As a young planner, I am committed to planning just futures, with a particular emphasis on Indigenous planning and housing as a human right. I hope to build a professional life that supports non-market housing alternatives, nonprofit housing reform, and policy advocacy, while staying connected to community-rooted and justice-centered planning.”
Laddi’s vision for the future reflects the heart of urban planning: creating systems and spaces that are more just, inclusive, and community-driven.
We are honored to celebrate Laddi’s achievements and look forward to seeing the impact they will continue to make in the planning profession.