A single student capstone project can spark lasting community impact. In conversation with Uwe Brandes, faculty director of the Master’s in Urban & Regional Planning program, alumnus Landis Masnor, and community leader Monica Ray, they reflect on Georgetown University’s longstanding collaboration with Congress Heights. Together, they discuss the role of this partnership in supporting the Soul of the City Business Improvement District (BID). "Without the student engagement and being our research partner, it never happens," says Ray, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in turning ideas into action. Their conversation highlights how applied learning, community engagement, and student research can create meaningful, lasting impact for both neighborhoods and future urban planners.