At Crispus Attucks York (CAY), we believe in empowering youth through access, exposure, and opportunity—and our 2025 Career Focus Institute Planning and Design Program is living proof of that mission in action.

This summer, CFI scholars had the extraordinary opportunity to explore the world of architecture, urban planning, and design through a hands-on partnership with Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects, a leading regional architecture firm known for creating spaces that inspire learning, connection, and community growth.

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Inspiring the Next Generation of Designers

The Planning and Design Program, part of the Career Focus Institute’s summer track, brought together 10 York County high school students from Crispus Attucks Charter, Logos Academy, York Academy Regional Charter, and William Penn Senior High School. Over the course of eight weeks, students were immersed in the fundamentals of architectural design, project planning, sustainability, and community-centered development.

 

Murphy & Dittenhafer’s team of professionals led workshops, design activities, and field visits that gave students a direct look at how ideas become reality. From digital rendering and hand-drawn modeling to site visits—including the newly completed Crispus Attucks History & Culture Center—students not only learned about architecture and planning, they experienced how design shapes the very fabric of our communities.

 

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Creating Pathways to Professional Careers

The Career Focus Institute Planning and Design Program is designed to be more than an enrichment activity—it’s a career pipeline. With guidance from mentors, students built new skills, explored future professions, and envisioned themselves in fields such as architecture, engineering, construction management, and urban planning.

The program provided:

• Hands-on design practice using both traditional and digital tools

• One-on-one mentorship with professional architects and planners

• Career-readiness training in resumes, portfolios, and mock interviews

• Real-world application through site tours, observations, and group projects

By investing in early exposure, Crispus Attucks York is ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds see themselves reflected in—and contributing to—these important professional fields.

 

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The Downtown York Mapping Showcase

The culmination of the 2025 program was a showcase project focused on reimagining downtown York City’s East Market Street corridor. Students worked in small groups to analyze and map the area, considering what exists, what is missing, and what could be improved.

• Group 1: Landscaping – proposed adding trees, pocket parks, and green spaces to beautify the street and support sustainability.
  

• Group 2: Lighting & Safety – examined lamp post placement to improve safety and create a more welcoming environment for residents and visitors.
  

• Group 3: Pedestrian Traffic – analyzed the flow of foot traffic, recommending enhancements for walkability and accessibility.
  

These observations sparked meaningful dialogue among students about community needs, equity, and vision for the future of York. Each group’s ideas were developed into formal presentations, which they proudly shared at the Program Graduation Ceremony.

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Gratitude and Looking Ahead

Program Funding provided by York County Community Foundation.

Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects for their expertise, mentorship, and commitment to youth empowerment. Your partnership with Crispus Attucks York helps students lay strong foundations—both literally and figuratively—for their futures.

As CAY celebrates its 95th Anniversary in 2026, programs like the CAY Career Focus Institute Planning and Design Program demonstrate how giving rise to possible helps create opportunities to build a stronger, more inclusive future.

Interested in supporting or joining our Career Focus Institute Planning and Design Program?
📩 Contact us today or visit www.crispusattucksyork.org to learn how your organization can partner with CAY to give rise to possibility.