Sheena Collum
Executive Director
Sheena Collum, MPA, is the Executive Director of the American Planning Association New Jersey Chapter (APA New Jersey), where she leads day-to-day operations and drives the implementation of the Board’s strategic vision. Her work spans continuing education, development, coalition building, legislative advocacy, and community service. Most notably, she was key in securing a $1.5 million grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation at the end of 2024 to advance equitable public health outcomes through master planning and zoning strategies for communities throughout New Jersey.
A dynamic and sought-after speaker, Ms. Collum regularly engages with communities across New Jersey on topics such as equitable land use, housing, state and regional planning, and strategies for inclusive civic engagement. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to “creating great communities for all, ” empowering residents and supporting long-term, systemic change.
In addition to her role with APA New Jersey, Ms. Collum is the Mayor of South Orange in Essex County, currently serving her third term. Since taking office in 2015, she has championed bold initiatives in economic development, infrastructure investment, and local governance reform. She is an active member of the Executive Committees of the New Jersey Conference of Mayors and the New Jersey State League of Municipalities. In recognition of her leadership, she received the Women in Municipal Government Award in 2022.
Ms. Collum holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration with a concentration in public policy, both from Seton Hall University.