Announcing Summer 2026 UCD Board Appointments

UCD’s Executive Committee has chosen to extend John Grady’s tenure as UCD’s board chair for another one-year term. Grady, an established economic development leader in Philadelphia, serves as Senior Vice President of Development and Northeast Region Executive for Wexford Science & Technology LLC, a real estate development company that partners with universities, academic medical centers, and research institutions to develop mixed-use knowledge communities nationally, including the uCity Square community in University City. Grady’s ties to UCD date back to his time in executive leadership at PIDC, where he was instrumental in supporting UCD’s work including the transformation of the 40^th Street Trolley Portal and the establishment of the Navy Yard Skills Initiative. In the past year, John was instrumental in leading our board and overseeing the transition from UCD’s longtime leader Matt Bergheiser to our new President & CEO, Sarah Steltz.

Longtime University City resident Brett Feldman has been appointed as our new Board Member representing Spruce Hill, taking over for founding UCD board member Barry Grossbach after his passing in December of 2026. Brett is a Philadelphia-based land use and zoning attorney who helps organizations navigate the complex approval processes required to build, renovate, expand, and invest in the city. His practice focuses on securing zoning approvals, permits, licenses, tax abatements, and other governmental authorizations, working closely with agencies, including the Philadelphia Planning Commission, the Department of Licenses & Inspections, the Streets Department, the Historical Commission, the Art Commission, the Zoning Board of Adjustment, the Philadelphia Water Department, and the City Council.

Drawing on both his legal expertise and deep understanding of Philadelphia’s neighborhoods, Brett regularly works with community organizations, civic leaders, and elected officials to build consensus around development projects. His approach reflects a longstanding commitment to balancing growth, neighborhood character, and community engagement.

A resident of Spruce Hill since 2003, Brett and his wife, Jenn, chose to make University City their home. Shortly after moving to the neighborhood, Brett joined the Spruce Hill Zoning Committee, where he has served for more than two decades. He also has served multiple terms on the Board of Directors of the Spruce Hill Community Association and remains actively engaged in civic and community affairs throughout Philadelphia.

In addition to his legal practice, Brett has held leadership and advisory roles with numerous professional and civic organizations, including the Philadelphia Bar Association, the Urban Land Institute, AIA Philadelphia’s Licenses and Inspections Committee, The Center for Architecture, and other initiatives focused on planning, development, and the future of Philadelphia. Brett earned a J.D. from Vanderbilt University School of Law and a B.S. from Cornell University. He is admitted to practice law in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. He and Jenn are the proud parents of two children, both of whom are currently attending college.