2024 Professional + Student Chapter Awards
The Maryland Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects recently held its annual Awards Gala to celebrate the exceptional work and accomplishments of its members. This year’s event took place at Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, Montgomery County, MD. We welcomed Joy Columbus, Director of Smithsonian Gardens as our Keynote Speaker. You can read more about the evening in the May President's Letter.
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This year's award categories included General Design, General Design (Unbuilt), Residential Design (Single and Multi-Family), Institutional, Analysis & Planning, and Research. Distinctions included Merit Awards, Honor Awards, the Traveling Award of Innovative Excellence, and the Presidential Award of Excellence. See this year's winners, below.
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Student Awards
University of Maryland, College Park
Cierra Hargrove, Student ASLA
BLA Candidate
Honor Award
Emmeline Steuernagle,
Student ASLA
BLA Candidate
Merit Award
Madison Mohan,
Student ASLA
BLA Candidate
Merit Award
Gabrielle Shelton,
Student ASLA
BLA Candidate
Honor Award
Azadeh Esmaeili,
Student ASLA
MLA Candidate
Honor Award
Mary Christensen,
Student ASLA
MLA Candidate
Merit Award
Morgan State University
Simone Robinson,
Student ASLA
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Merit Award
2023 Student Scholarship and Fellowship Winners
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Gabrielle Shelton, SASLA
2024 BLA Candidate
University of Maryland
Fellowship
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Caleb Austin, SASLA
2025 BLA Candidate
University of Maryland
Scholarship
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Jennifer Plaskowitz
2024 MLA Candidate
Morgan State University
Scholarship
Merit Awards
The Appian Corporation in Tysons Corner, VA, revamped its rooftop garden aiming to improve the office space and employee experience. The project transformed the outdated terrace into a modern amenity space while accommodating in-person work and collaboration. The landscape architect led the redesign. Special features include a trellis with woodland-inspired columns and angular forms mirroring the adjacent architecture, providing both visual interest and shade.
The Appian Corporation in Tysons Corner, VA, revamped its rooftop garden aiming to improve the office space and employee experience. The project transformed the outdated terrace into a modern amenity space while accommodating in-person work and collaboration. The landscape architect led the redesign. Special features include a trellis with woodland-inspired columns and angular forms mirroring the adjacent architecture, providing both visual interest and shade.
General Design
Appian Rooftop Terrace
Baltimore, MD
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Mahan Rykiel Associates
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Owner: Appian Corporation; Prime Architect: CRTKL; Lighting Designer: CM Kling; Structural Engineer: Silman; General Contractor: Hitt Landscape Contractor; JB Kline; Trellis & Planter Fabricator: Deco Planters
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Lumen Plaza at 100 Light Street, site of the tallest building in the Baltimore skyline, saw a complete renovation of the existing plaza. The graceful design used arcs of pedestrian circulation to define flexible outdoor spaces. Most striking may be the bold arcs of pavers that help define use zones, entry spaces and pedestrian movements. Through careful design, the plaza resulted in a stunning greenspace that capitalized on evolving workforce needs, and new ways to work, rest and recharge.
Lumen Plaza at 100 Light Street, site of the tallest building in the Baltimore skyline, saw a complete renovation of the existing plaza. The graceful design used arcs of pedestrian circulation to define flexible outdoor spaces. Most striking may be the bold arcs of pavers that help define use zones, entry spaces and pedestrian movements. Through careful design, the plaza resulted in a stunning greenspace that capitalized on evolving workforce needs, and new ways to work, rest and recharge.
General Design
Lumen Plaza at 100 Light
Baltimore, MD
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Floura Teeter Landscape Architects​
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Owner: COPT; Waterproofing: Construction Insight; Civil: Morris Ritchie & Associates; MEP: BKM; Contractor: Plano Coudon.
This projects' resiliency solutions will help transform the Annapolis City Dock area into a vibrant community space with shaded gathering, re-establishing people's connection to their maritime histories. Trees with open branching structures provide dappled shade and wildlife habitat, while the proposed site structures allow for near-transparent use without obstructing views of the water. The project mitigates flood risk and ensures a sustainable future.
This projects' resiliency solutions will help transform the Annapolis City Dock area into a vibrant community space with shaded gathering, re-establishing people's connection to their maritime histories. Trees with open branching structures provide dappled shade and wildlife habitat, while the proposed site structures allow for near-transparent use without obstructing views of the water. The project mitigates flood risk and ensures a sustainable future.
General Design (Unbuilt)
Annapolis City Dock
Annapolis, MD
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Mahan Rykiel Associates
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Project Team: Mahan Rykiel Associates, BCT Design Group, WSP, Whiting-Turner, Amber Infrastructure, The City of Annapolis
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The decommissioned Pikesville armory, a 14-acre historic site, is reimagined to feature multi-age destination play, an events lawn, a flexible market plaza, a beer garden and café. Along the perimeter, a ring of recreation and sports field programs provide extensive opportunities for team sports and community tournaments. The design reflects foundational landscape principles that enhance gathering, inclusivity, human comfort, and the unique special qualities of the site.
The decommissioned Pikesville armory, a 14-acre historic site, is reimagined to feature multi-age destination play, an events lawn, a flexible market plaza, a beer garden and café. Along the perimeter, a ring of recreation and sports field programs provide extensive opportunities for team sports and community tournaments. The design reflects foundational landscape principles that enhance gathering, inclusivity, human comfort, and the unique special qualities of the site.
General Design (Unbuilt)
Pikesville Armory Vision Plan
Pikesville, MD
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Unknown Studio​
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Project Team: Seawall, Onyx Development, Pikesville Armory Foundation, Ziger|Snead, MK Consulting Engineers
Traci Atkins Park is a pocket park in Baltimore's Mount Clare Neighborhood. The design team guided neighbors through a series of conversations, inventorying ideas and comparing alternative design ideas. A lush grove marks the new entry to the park with reclaimed stone seating and an expanded playground. Nature-and-water-based play is added using reclaimed wood and materials. There is also a new basketball court, pavilions and a terrace, a much-needed space to host community gatherings.
Traci Atkins Park is a pocket park in Baltimore's Mount Clare Neighborhood. The design team guided neighbors through a series of conversations, inventorying ideas and comparing alternative design ideas. A lush grove marks the new entry to the park with reclaimed stone seating and an expanded playground. Nature-and-water-based play is added using reclaimed wood and materials. There is also a new basketball court, pavilions and a terrace, a much-needed space to host community gatherings.
General Design (Unbuilt)
Traci Atkins Park
West Baltimore, MD
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Jonathan Ceci Landscape Architects​
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Project Team: Baltimore City Recreation and Parks, Mount Clare Community Council.
Located next to the future Purple Line Station, this 9.5-acre Transportation Oriented Mixed-Use Development was home to the Chevy Chase Lake Amusement Park. It integrates ample bicycle parking, an active pool courtyard and bioretention planters. The materials selection honors both the site's history and present, combining brick, pavers, wood and metal that make the space feel natural and relaxed.
Located next to the future Purple Line Station, this 9.5-acre Transportation Oriented Mixed-Use Development was home to the Chevy Chase Lake Amusement Park. It integrates ample bicycle parking, an active pool courtyard and bioretention planters. The materials selection honors both the site's history and present, combining brick, pavers, wood and metal that make the space feel natural and relaxed.
General Design
Chevy Chase Lake Block B
Chevy Chase, MD
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Mahan Rykiel Associates​
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Project Team: Bozzuto Development Company, Bozzuto Construction Company, Lerch, Early & Brewer, The Martin Architectural Group, David M. Schwatcz Architects, MCLA, VIKA, RD Jones, Sustainable Design Consulting
HCM led the master planning effort for 90+ acres along Johnson Creek, and was retained to bring the first couple projects for the newly established Entertainment District to life. Texas Live! is a unique collection of restaurants and entertainment venues. Landscape architects helped to share the site plan and completed detailed design of all outdoor spaces including pedestrian promenades, streetscapes, bars and restaurants, pools and fountains, an event lawn and associated hardscapes.
HCM led the master planning effort for 90+ acres along Johnson Creek, and was retained to bring the first couple projects for the newly established Entertainment District to life. Texas Live! is a unique collection of restaurants and entertainment venues. Landscape architects helped to share the site plan and completed detailed design of all outdoor spaces including pedestrian promenades, streetscapes, bars and restaurants, pools and fountains, an event lawn and associated hardscapes.
General Design
Texas Live! Entertainment District
Arlington, TX
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Hord Coplan Macht​
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Project Team: The Cordish Companies, The City of Arlington, Texas, HCM Architects, HKS Architects, Selbert Perkins, SMR Landscape Architects.
Chrome Works Park is the latest addition to Baltimore's waterfront and is constructed entirely over a capped, remediated chromium brownfield site. The design connects the landscape of the Chesapeake Bay with that of the Serpentine Grasslands of Baltimore County, and incorporates sustainable practice, the use of native and adaptive species, shoreline stabilization plantings, and a waterfront edge which was designed for inundation. The park is a canvas for outdoor learning and engagement.
Chrome Works Park is the latest addition to Baltimore's waterfront and is constructed entirely over a capped, remediated chromium brownfield site. The design connects the landscape of the Chesapeake Bay with that of the Serpentine Grasslands of Baltimore County, and incorporates sustainable practice, the use of native and adaptive species, shoreline stabilization plantings, and a waterfront edge which was designed for inundation. The park is a canvas for outdoor learning and engagement.
General Design (Unbuilt)
Chrome Works Park
Baltimore, MD
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iO Studio, Inc.​
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Project Team: Beatty Harvery CoCo Architects, Beatty Developments, RKK Engineers, MRCE Engineers, Morris and Ritchie Engineers.
The Popes Creek Waterfront Park and its associated tidal marsh are a stunning and valuable natural greenway system. Showcasing habitat and biodiversity, the park will immerse and educate visitors as they experience ecosystem function, conservation, and climate resiliency. This design took full advantage of the waterfront and upper meadow parcels to maximize recreational opportunities. Popes Creek has something for everyone - from kayaking, hiking, playgrounds, picnicking, birdwatching & more.
The Popes Creek Waterfront Park and its associated tidal marsh are a stunning and valuable natural greenway system. Showcasing habitat and biodiversity, the park will immerse and educate visitors as they experience ecosystem function, conservation, and climate resiliency. This design took full advantage of the waterfront and upper meadow parcels to maximize recreational opportunities. Popes Creek has something for everyone - from kayaking, hiking, playgrounds, picnicking, birdwatching & more.
General Design (Unbuilt)
Popes Creek Waterfront Master Plan
Charles County, MD
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Floura Teeter Landscape Architects​
Client: Charles County Recreation and Parks; Civil: Mead & Hunt; Ecological Consultant: Coastal Resources, Inc.
Bethesda Modern Classic is a distilled landscape of pure forms. The team prioritized preserving a 50+ year old weeping cherry by cantilevering grade beams in lieu of footings for the motor court walls. The resulting garden heightens the architectural gesture of restraint; while becoming a space that is serene, beautiful, and actively responsive to the natural landscape.
Bethesda Modern Classic is a distilled landscape of pure forms. The team prioritized preserving a 50+ year old weeping cherry by cantilevering grade beams in lieu of footings for the motor court walls. The resulting garden heightens the architectural gesture of restraint; while becoming a space that is serene, beautiful, and actively responsive to the natural landscape.
Residential Design (Single-Family)
Bethesda Modern Classic
Bethesda, MD​
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Horn & Co.​
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Project Team: Donald Lococo Architects (Architect), Horizon Building Corporation (Builder), Planted Earth Landscaping (Landscaping), Alpine Pool (Pool), Nature Unlimited (Lighting & Irrigation), and Anice Hoachlander (Photography).
On the banks of the Magothy River, this hillside cottage was granted a transformation to ground the house into a natural setting appropriate for a waterfront site that has evidence of erosion. A native garden, seeded in the Fall, resolved erosion issues and will attract pollinators. With the site running off into the Magothy River, a tributary to the Chesapeake Bay, the landscape architects endured best environmental practices occurred both during construction and today.
On the banks of the Magothy River, this hillside cottage was granted a transformation to ground the house into a natural setting appropriate for a waterfront site that has evidence of erosion. A native garden, seeded in the Fall, resolved erosion issues and will attract pollinators. With the site running off into the Magothy River, a tributary to the Chesapeake Bay, the landscape architects endured best environmental practices occurred both during construction and today.
Residential Design (Single-Family)
Meadow on the Magothy
Pasadena, MD
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CLINTON + RIES Landscape Architects​
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Project Team: Walnut Hill Landscape Company, Ernst Conservation Seeds, Good Earth Gardeners
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This garden project unfolded in two phases, starting with the front walkway entrance. A redesigned path with low stucco retaining wall and bluestone paving, complementing the modern farmhouse aesthetic. The backyard design prioritized the removal of an asphalt driveway to create a seamless natural space. Grading work improved usability and drainage. The garden design balances a curated feel with spontaneous beauty, embodying the property's name, "Wild Pines."
This garden project unfolded in two phases, starting with the front walkway entrance. A redesigned path with low stucco retaining wall and bluestone paving, complementing the modern farmhouse aesthetic. The backyard design prioritized the removal of an asphalt driveway to create a seamless natural space. Grading work improved usability and drainage. The garden design balances a curated feel with spontaneous beauty, embodying the property's name, "Wild Pines."
Residential Design (Single-Family)
Wild Pines
Sparks Glencoe, MD
FORM Garden Design​
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Builder: ProCor Group; Interior Designer: Stephanie Bradshaw Creative; Landscape Contractor: Pinehurst Landscape
Stony Run, a tributary of the Jones Falls, flows southward, enriching the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Stony Run is the heart of a linear park system spanning numerous communities, notably Wyman Park, a 16-acre public park envisioned by the Olmsted brothers. The Strategic Plan aims to coordinate stewardship efforts, enhancing accessibility, preserving ecology, and promoting responsible park use.
Stony Run, a tributary of the Jones Falls, flows southward, enriching the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Stony Run is the heart of a linear park system spanning numerous communities, notably Wyman Park, a 16-acre public park envisioned by the Olmsted brothers. The Strategic Plan aims to coordinate stewardship efforts, enhancing accessibility, preserving ecology, and promoting responsible park use.
Analysis & Planning
Lower Stony Run Strategic Plan
Baltimore, MD
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Mahan Rykiel Associates​
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Project Team: Mahan Rykiel Associates (Tom McGilloway PLA, Megan Oliver AICP, Jeff Dube PLA), Friends of Stoney Run, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks.​
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Located on the Chester River, Northwest Point Farm was developed as an iconic country farm that celebrates the essence of tidewater living. The design includes garden paths and rooms for connectivity and cohesiveness, relying on axis and symmetry as ordering principles. The landscape design is a manifestation of connections between architecture and land, combining quiet sophistication and romanticism to create a waterfront retreat.
Located on the Chester River, Northwest Point Farm was developed as an iconic country farm that celebrates the essence of tidewater living. The design includes garden paths and rooms for connectivity and cohesiveness, relying on axis and symmetry as ordering principles. The landscape design is a manifestation of connections between architecture and land, combining quiet sophistication and romanticism to create a waterfront retreat.
Residential Design
(Single-Family)
Northwest Point Farm
Centreville, MD
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Campion Hruby Landscape Architects​
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Architect: Purple Cherry Architects; Builder: GYC Group; Landscape: Planted Earth Landscaping
This 30-acre LEED-Gold facility is located on a brownfield site, heavily wooded on three sides. Over 50% of the existing impervious area was restored to natural landscape, adding native and adaptive plants that are appropriate to the surrounding Appalachian oak forest. The wildflower meadows along the front and eastern edges of the site create colorful, natural fields that provide room for expansion of the facility, including the addition of a solar field, while reducing stormwater runoff.
This 30-acre LEED-Gold facility is located on a brownfield site, heavily wooded on three sides. Over 50% of the existing impervious area was restored to natural landscape, adding native and adaptive plants that are appropriate to the surrounding Appalachian oak forest. The wildflower meadows along the front and eastern edges of the site create colorful, natural fields that provide room for expansion of the facility, including the addition of a solar field, while reducing stormwater runoff.
Institutional Design
Howard County Circuit Courthouse
Columbia, MD
HOK​
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Project Team: Edgemoor Infrastructure & Real Estate (Client), Creative Machines (Public Art).
This research project explores how Green Spaces can help the mental wellbeing of students on College Campuses. Nature Rx is a provides a holistic way of addressing mental health issues such as stress, anxiety and depression which are prevalent among college students. The evidence is strong that time engaging with nature can improve mental and physical health.
This research project explores how Green Spaces can help the mental wellbeing of students on College Campuses. Nature Rx is a provides a holistic way of addressing mental health issues such as stress, anxiety and depression which are prevalent among college students. The evidence is strong that time engaging with nature can improve mental and physical health.
Research
Creating Space for Nature Rx at HBCUs
Marci-Ann Smith​
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University of Maryland, College Park Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture; University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Honor Awards
Color Burst Park at Merriweather sits within a mixed-use development centered on walkability, connectivity, creativity, sustainability and art. There are five primary spaces; a promenade, an event pavilion, an open lawn, a fountain plaza and a shared street. Future pedestrian and bike connections were incorporated, as well as stormwater management facilities, native plants, and adapted bioretention plants to meet sustainability goals.
Color Burst Park at Merriweather sits within a mixed-use development centered on walkability, connectivity, creativity, sustainability and art. There are five primary spaces; a promenade, an event pavilion, an open lawn, a fountain plaza and a shared street. Future pedestrian and bike connections were incorporated, as well as stormwater management facilities, native plants, and adapted bioretention plants to meet sustainability goals.
General Design
Color Burst Park
Columbia, MD
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Mahan Rykiel Associates​
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Project Team: Howard Hughes Corporation, JP2 Architects, TCA Architects, FOX Architects, Daft McCune Walker, The Lighting Practice, Kusser FountainWorks.
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This 18-story, 475 unit residential apartment and retail building is located between two rapidly growing, dense urban commercial corridors. The team took an innovative approach to sitting the project. Pyramidal landforms, interwoven with pathways imbue the plaza with an unmistakable character while providing opportunities for recreation. Kebony and native plantings add visual warmth while contributing to a sustainability focused material palette.
This 18-story, 475 unit residential apartment and retail building is located between two rapidly growing, dense urban commercial corridors. The team took an innovative approach to sitting the project. Pyramidal landforms, interwoven with pathways imbue the plaza with an unmistakable character while providing opportunities for recreation. Kebony and native plantings add visual warmth while contributing to a sustainability focused material palette.
Residential Design (Multi-Family)
8001 Woodmont Avenue
Bethesda, MD
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MKSK
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Project Team: JBG Smith (Client); FXCollaborative (Architect); VIKA (Engineer).
The house on the 17-acre property is situated on-axis with Sugarloaf Mountain to take advantage of the vast, magnificent views. The landscape design was inspired by the complex ecological systems of the Piedmont Physiographic region. The use of local materials and native plants carefully considered the foreground, middle ground, and background to blend the design with the rural characteristics of the site.
The house on the 17-acre property is situated on-axis with Sugarloaf Mountain to take advantage of the vast, magnificent views. The landscape design was inspired by the complex ecological systems of the Piedmont Physiographic region. The use of local materials and native plants carefully considered the foreground, middle ground, and background to blend the design with the rural characteristics of the site.
Residential Design (Single-Family)
Threading Ecologies
Barnesville, MD
Moody Graham Landscape Architects​
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Clients: Carole Bewley and Marius Clore; Architect: Stoiber+Associates; Civil Engineer and Site Survey: Snider & Associates; Meadow Consultant, Installation and Maintenance: Larry Weaner Landscape Associates; Builder/General Contractor: Summit Design & Construction, Inc.; Excavation and Grading: Gebcon Corporation; Planting Installation: Oldetowne Landscape Architects; Willow Panels: The Willow Farm; Garden Maintenance: Hedge Garden Care Hardscape Contractor: Neto Construction.
Traveling Award of Innovative Excellence
& Honor Award
Analysis & Planning
Holly Beach Stewardship Plan
Annapolis, MD
Moody Graham Landscape Architects​
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Project Team: Environmental Systems Analysis, Inc; Mark Burchick, Principal / Senior Environmental Scientist; Leslie Wood, PWS Principal/Senior Environmental Scientist; heike nolker, landscape architect; Chesapeake Bay Foundation; Willy Agee; Holly Beach Farm Conservancy; Tom Thayer
Holly Beach Farm is a 300-acre coastal resource characterized by wetland-dominated natural areas, complex vegetative diversity, abundant wildlife, and five miles of tidal shoreline on the Chesapeake Bay and Whitehall Bay.
Originally a farm with historic and cultural values, the property was placed in conservation 20 years ago and managed under the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s (CBF) care. The proposed stewardship plan is a multi-faceted proposal integrating innovative offshore and land-based methods to preserve and celebrate the coastline, a layered history, and a multitude of ecosystems on located in the property. Holly Beach Farm has the capability to operate as the region’s environmental, educational, and climate change research hub during this stewardship. The plan is comprised of a network of paths that introduces users to ecological study plots, reforestation zones, restored historic structures and living shorelines. One proposed ecological study plot central to the site is the “wheel of succession,” and is a series of transitory plant communities that develop during ecological succession from fallow ground to mature woodlands.
It is rare that a place of such rich ecological diversity and undeveloped educational potential is close to a growing population area. Explaining the qualities of this place, including its fragile nature, to decision-makers is critical to charting a successful plan for long-term stewardship of the site’s natural and cultural features.
Presidential Award
General Design
UMPC Mercy Pavillion
Pittsburgh, PA
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HOK​
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Project Team: Chris Downey, AIA (Special Consultant); UPMC (client),
UPMC Mercy Pavilion is a new state-of-the-art facility offering comprehensive clinical services for patients with visual impairments and diseases of the eye. Throughout the project, the landscape team worked closely with one of the world’s only blind architects to ensure the facility was infused with strategies to welcome and aid eye patients. These design approaches include lighting levels that promote contrast and brightness, materials and textures that enhance cane detection, and the use of sound as a wayfinding and therapy tool.
For the streetscape, the design adds a public plaza with shade trees and seating for respite. The Pavilion entry welcomes patients and visitors of all abilities through thoughtful design gestures, including an ADA-compliant pedestrian walkway, in-ground non-glare lighting and high-contrast color in the paving material and raised textures for cane detection. Working closely with UPMC experts, the landscape team designed a Rehabilitation and Healing Garden for the fourth-floor terrace. A powerful demonstration of the healing power of landscape architecture, the Garden utilizes non-visual stimuli, including touch and sound, to promote opportunities for learning and connection with others. The central feature is an ADA-compliant training path where patients can practice navigating elevation change and interact with a variety of common outdoor surfaces. The Winter Garden, a flexible outdoor space for UPMC’s staff, is located on the other side of the terrace. Separated by a peaceful green wall, this area provides dedicated outdoor space for work or small events. The landscape is completed by two levels of non-accessible green roofs.
Spencer Ellis Award
Stephanie Oberle
Director of Brookside Gardens
Stephanie was presented this award by friend, Landscape Architecture educator and advocater, and ASLA Fellow, Jack Sullivan, FASLA. Jack had the following to share about Stephanie:
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Stephanie Oberle graduated from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor's Degree in Horticulture, and from the University of Delaware with a Master's Degree in Public Horticulture Administration. She previously held positions at the American Horticultural Society in Alexandria, VA and Tudor Place in Washington D.C. When she was hired by Brookside Gardens, she worked for several years as a Visitor Services Supervisor, overseeing all educational programming, enterprise functions, the volunteer program and the library. In this capacity, she worked closely with Montgomery County Parks staff and outside contractors to develop a 15-phase master plan for the Gardens.
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She was elevated to the position of Director in 2008, and oversaw completion of several master plan phases, including design and installation of a new entrance and parking garden and a new greenhouse facility. She is a strong advocate for sustainability, championing green choices in all Brookside Gardens projects. She promoted environmental education for children, as evidences in her work with the Children & Nature Network, and she has created a pipeline to employment in the green industry for all ages.
Emerging Professional Award
Gaëlle Gourmelon
Associate Designer, MKSK
This award recognizes and celebrates an individual who has demonstrated extraordinary passion and commitment to the profession of landscape architecture, the community, and/or a firm in the State of Maryland; in the early stage of their professional life.
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Gaëlle was presented this award by last year's Emerging Professional Award Winner, Lauren Gray, Assoc. ASLA, who had the following to share about Gaëlle:
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Gaëlle joined MKSK in 2020, after having attained an MLA from the University of Virginia, where as a student she won the departmental Award for Design Excellence, and the Landscape Architecture Foundation's Joe Lalli Scholarship.
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Gaëlle's background in public health shapes her belief in the healing power of landscape architecture. She currently serves as Co-chair of MKSK's Staff Council, a volunteer staff advocacy position. Last year, she developed, implemented, and synthesized the results of a firm-wide employee engagement survey, yielding targeted focus workshops and moving as forward on staff empowerment.
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Gaëlle is remarkable emerging professional of the landscape architecture community, participating in every avenue of practice. I, and many others, look forward to seeing how she continues in her career to innovate, and inspire.
Mid-Career Professional Award
Heidi Thomas, ASLA
Founding Principal at EnviroCollab
To recognize and celebrate an individual who has demonstrated extraordinary passion and commitment to the profession of landscape architecture, the community, and/or a firm in the State of Maryland; in the middle stage of their professional life.
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Heidi was presented the award by last year's Mid-Career Award Winner Brian Reetz, ASLA, who had the following to share about Heidi:
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Heidi Thomas, this year's recipient, has a graduate studies degree in Cultural Sustainability focused on the co-creation of environment, culture, and community in urban agricultural contexts - a theme which continues to serve as the cornerstone of her engagement and design approach across the breadth of her professional work.
She aspires to enhance the visibility of and increase access to the field of landscape architecture, particularly among women, minorities, and under-served communities. Her experiences as an adjunct instructor, a community advocate, and a neighborhood organizer for environmental projects in Baltimore have furthered this aim, while also helping to illuminate with others the correlation between social equity and access to nature.
Heidi has recently transitioned her firm from a sole proprietorship to a worker-owned cooperative. She is building and operating a company that is eager to explore beyond the traditionally hierarchical business model norm in our industry that enables leadership from the select few over the many, and has chosen to work toward converting to a more progressive business model that better represents the collective mission at EnviroCollab.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Deborah Schwab, ASLA
Owner, Deborah M. Schwab Landscape Architecture
Maryland ASLA's Lifetime Achievement Award was created to recognize outstanding contributions to the field of landscape architecture by our long-standing and dedicated members. The award can be for service, knowledge, research or any other related subject that the MDASLA executive committee chooses to honor.
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Deb was presented this award by longtime friend, colleague, and last year's MDASLA Award of Excellence winner, Vernon Hustead, ASLA. Here is what Vernon had to share about Deb:
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Deb graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a Natural Resources degree (They did not have a Landscape Architecture degree at the time). She went to work at her father's civil engineering office, and was one of the first Landscape Architects to become registered in the state of Rhode Island. She eventually left to become a sailboat captain, where she ferried boats to the Caribbean. Eventually she gravitated back to Landscape Architecture, met her husband Iver, moved to Annapolis, MD, and started her own firm.
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Deb has worked on a wide range of projects including private residences, commercial and institutional projects, public parks and plazas. Deb is the go to person in Annapolis for civil engineers and architects to help with required landscape plans, critical area plans and forest conservation plans.
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Deb has been involved with the Maryland Chapter of ASLA for many years, joining in the mid '90s, and becoming President in 2000. She remains involved with ASLA both locally and nationally, and is considered a mentor by many Landscape Architects - both new and not so new.
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As a true testament to Deb's character, Vernon shares:
"I met Deb early in the 1990s at a MDASLA event. Since I was a new person, she made sure to come over and introduce herself to me, to introduce me to others at the meeting and make me feel comfortable and like I belonged at the meeting. If I have done anything well in the MDASLA it has been because of Deb’s kindness, her mentoring and leadership."
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