Freedom of Movement: The Case for Equitable, Beautiful, and Sustainable Urban Infrastructure in the U.S.

This policy brief examines the urgent need for a redesign of urban planning across U.S. cities within the broader context of American transportation policy, public health, climate goals, and the growing loneliness epidemic caused by a lack of inviting, shared urban space.

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Varun Manickam

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October 5, 2025

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Inquiry-driven, this project may reflect personal views, aiming to enrich problem-related discourse.

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Varun Manickam

2025 Summer Fellow

Varun Manickam is a Sociology and Humanities Honors student at the University of Texas at Austin within the Liberal Arts Honors program. He is passionate about environmental issues and their intersection with finance and public policy.

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The Venezuelan Crisis: The Causes And A Way Forward

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Jeremy Siegl

This capstone will explore the Venezuelan crisis. In addition it will show the causes and a way forward.

Rising Tensions between the U.S. and China over Taiwan

Capstones - Spring 2023

Edan Kauer

This brief examines the rising geopolitical tension due to Taiwan's growing semiconductor industry and the increased US support for Taiwan, which has upset China. It delves into the history, current political climate, and potential policy options while exploring the strategic interests of the US, China, and Taiwan.

Piecing Together the Broken Bits of the Texas Public School Funding System

Capstones - Summer 2024

Sankeertana Malakapalli

This capstone will dive into how the Texas Public School Funding System operates.

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Varun Manickam

Other Fellowship Capstones

The Venezuelan Crisis: The Causes And A Way Forward

Rising Tensions between the U.S. and China over Taiwan

Piecing Together the Broken Bits of the Texas Public School Funding System