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Chandra Teddleton, a native of Atlanta, Georgia, has dedicated much of her career to fostering understanding and driving change in revitalization and economic development. Her journey began at a young age, observing the growth of her hometown in the wake of the 1996 Olympics. This early exposure to urban transformation shaped her academic pursuits, particularly during her graduate studies. Her dissertation, which examines the challenges of gentrification in Atlanta through the lens of a homogeneous minority community, highlights her deep engagement with the complexities of urban change.
Chandra’s career is marked by an impressive blend of travel, education, and service. She has conducted research on the healthy development of children, adolescents, and families in low-income and ethnic minority communities. She also led a City health initiative that gained national recognition through former First Lady Michelle Obama’s platform. Passionate about the intersection of urban planning and fitness, Chandra had the opportunity to work with the National Park Service at both local and national levels, advancing initiatives that link public spaces with health and wellness. She received her Ph.D. in Urban Studies from the University of New Orleans.
Chandra earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Xavier University of New Orleans, followed by a Master of Arts in Political Science and master’s in urban studies from the University of New Orleans. She is currently completing her doctoral studies in Urban Planning at the University of New Orleans, with a focus on community and economic development and an emphasis on gentrification. Additionally, Chandra is well-versed in FEMA Emergency Management, Statistical Data Analysis, and business model mapping. Her studies have taken her across the country and around the world, including educational experiences at Charles University in Prague, the University of the West Indies in Jamaica, and a graduate residency with the U.S. Department of State in Oslo, Norway.
Chandra’s professional experience includes serving as the Director of Project Management and Interim Senior Vice President of Strategic Neighborhood Development at the New Orleans Business Alliance. In these roles, she managed and implemented projects in the cultural, food systems, and tech sectors. Her work focused on retaining and supporting businesses in New Orleans while showcasing the city’s thriving cultural scene. Through her diverse and inclusive approach, Chandra continues to intertwine her experiences with the rich fabric of New Orleans’ food, music, and culture.
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Discover how historic downtowns across Louisiana saw economic and community benefits after they were featured in the film Sinners. The project spotlighted local architecture, employed community members, and infused new life into small‑town Main Streets.
