Ehler Htoo

Ehler joined UBRI in 2026 as an Associate Planner, bringing a multidisciplinary background in design and planning expertise rooted in lived experience. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Design and dual Master’s degrees in Architecture and Urban Planning from the University at Buffalo. As a community connector, she is passionate about community growth, engagement, development, and prosperity in Buffalo neighborhoods.

Ehler is passionate about giving back to Buffalo’s communities. This is reflected in her academic projects in both architecture and planning studios. Ehler brings rich experience in community outreach is exemplified by my thesis titled “envisioning a community space with Karen youth in Buffalo NY”, where  engaged with Karen youth members in meaningful ways to gain insight into their needs and wants for a community space. Through these projects, she hopes to contribute to the development and prosperity of Buffalo and its diverse communities.

Ehler believes that one must actively serve and be a part of their community’s voices. She volunteered for K’nyaw Youth of Buffalo as a social media specialist, assisting the Karen youth and community in different cultural events. Ehler also taught elementary school students as a youth development specialist, organizing outdoor exploration, education, and crisis intervention activities.

Ehler and her family came to Buffalo as refugees, seeking safety and a new life away from war and genocide. Buffalo has been her home ever since. As a longtime resident, she is a committed community connector — passionate about the growth, engagement, development, and prosperity of the neighborhoods she has grown up alongside.