Uma Bhandaram is a committed public servant with a strong interest in the intersection
of urban development, the built environment, and nature. She oversees analytics and
operational strategy for the Environment & Planning division at the New York City Parks
department where she uses a systems-based and data-driven approach to shape the
city’s urban forestry operations and long-term planning. Her work helps guide evidence-
based decision-making that supports the development and maintenance of sustainable
and resilient green spaces across New York City.
Deeply passionate about civic engagement at the local level, Uma is a member of her
NYC community board focusing on addressing and advocating for local environmental,
sanitation, and transportation issues. She also serves as a County Committee member
of the Brooklyn Democratic Party and organizes at the grassroots level to bring political
reform.
Uma holds dual Bachelor’s degrees from UCLA and a Master’s degree from the Yale
School of the Environment (YSE). She remains actively involved with the YSE alumni
community, serving on the Alumni Association Board and co-chairing Yale BlueGreen’s
NYC chapter, where she helps connect and mobilize environmentally focused
professionals.