In January 2021, the Sustainable Global Cities Initiative (SGCI) released a report titled UConn Engagement in the City to celebrate the engagement and teaching activities of SGCI Faculty Affiliates. The report commemorates activities related to Community and Public Engagement, Professional Engagement and Recognition, and Innovative Teaching. Dr. Maria Chrysochoou was featured for her activities related to the Connecticut Brownfields Initiative (CBI) in all three categories.

Dr. Chrysochoou's work as the Director of the CBI was highlighted for her vision to create a "center of excellence that will develop successful strategies for planning and redevelopment, support communities to promote urban renewal, and create educational opportunities for students to engage diverse audiences, including industry and community partners, to cultivate an environment of inclusion, democratic ethos, creativity, and innovation."

She was recently honored by the Connecticut Technology Council at the 16th Annual Women of Innovation Awards for the innovative work with CBI, in which students work with Connecticut communities as part of a two-course sequence to provide assistance with identify funding, conduct site investigations, and create remediation plans.

Download and read the entire UConn Engagement in the City report here.