"The Water Front" at the University of Detroit Mercy, Dec. 3, 2008

Harriett Saperstein brings hands on experience to "Metropolitan Conflict," a graduate class which is part of the "Master of Community Development" program at the University of Detroit Mercy - School of Architecture. Saperstein led the Highland Park organization that brought 300 million dollars in economic development to the city after Chrysler left and is a vital presence in the city.

Associate Producer for "The Water Front" and urban planner, Curtis Smith, spoke to the graduate class after the screening. Present in the audience was a former city clerk from Ecorse - the first female and the first Black American elected to this office. She writes, "I was awed and inspired by the Highland Park" documentation and your words of wisdom. Stay encouraged doing your work helping people.. It is people like you who inspire me and others-- that our struggle while in school is not in vain." Thank you Harriett and Curtis for making this happen!