About me

Housing is too expensive.

Our communities are too unequal and too segregated.

We’re not even remotely prepared for climate change, which is already here. 

In 20 years of working on housing and urban development, I’ve seen passionate people and organizations come up with creative, smart, workable answers to these problems. But a diverse set of entrenched political divides keep us from realizing those solutions.

As a practitioner, researcher, and writer, I take this challenge as my starting point. I focus on work that can build new coalitions, overcome long-standing divisions, and ultimately make more answers to our equity and environmental struggles possible. 

About me

I was born and raised in California. After almost a decade overseas, I’m back in the Golden State, living and working in Oakland. An award-winning writer and researcher, I’m the author of two books and more than 50 academic and nonacademic articles. I’m currently a Visiting Scholar at the Institute for Metropolitan Studies at San José State University, where I co-lead efforts to reimagine the Institute as a hub for the public understanding of urbanization in California. 

Prior to returning to California, I taught geography at the University of Leeds and urban studies and policy at Sciences Po Paris and other universities in France. I began my career as an immigrant rights activist at East Bay Sanctuary, where I remain engaged as a member of the board, and as a tenant organizer and advocate in New York City.  

Stay tuned as this site develops, but don’t hesitate to reach out in the meantime.

For my writing and research, visit alexschafran.com

For Organizations

Organizational strategy on housing and development issues

Cutting edge research

Award-winning writing for diverse audiences

Coalition and partnership building

Social impact strategy for housing and real estate businesses

Trainings and curriculum development

Project management

Public speaking

For Leaders

Strategic advising for leaders in the housing space

Housing and urban development platforms for candidates

Housing policy talking points and messaging

Co-authorship and ghost authorship of housing Op-eds, blogs and newsletters

Speechwriting

Contact Me

Email me at schafran [at] gmail.com