A group of OU graduate Landscape Architecture students recently attended the 2023 National American Society of Landscape Architects Conference in Minneapolis. This ASLA conference is the largest gathering of landscape architects and allied professionals in the world, bringing together attendees to learn, celebrate, build relationships and strengthen friendships within the professional community.
Minneapolis provided a dynamic setting for this year’s conference. Nestled along the Mississippi River, the downtown area is home to vibrant neighborhoods, diverse dining experiences and a thriving arts scene. The city’s iconic skyline, marked by contemporary skyscrapers and historic structures, is a testament to its architectural diversity.
Students Rajith Kumar Kedarisetty, Jeremy Crites, Iman Moradi Naftchali, Frank Hicks and Salomon Murillo attended the conference, as well as Professor of Landscape Architecture Sarah Little. The students were awarded the 2023 National Conference Sponsorship from the ASLA Oklahoma Chapter, which financially supported their attendance.
Throughout the three-day event, the students engaged with other ASLA members and professionals to discuss environmental resilience strategies and engage in professional development. The conversations covered a wide range of topics, from biodiversity and climate action to the impacts of artificial intelligence on the Landscape Architecture discipline. The students also attended an OU reception, where they connected with LA alumni and celebrated their shared passion for the discipline.
At the conference, Rajith Kumar Kedarisetty was awarded the Landscape Architecture Foundation 2023 Olmsted Scholar recognition. The LAF Olmsted Scholars Program recognizes and supports students with exceptional leadership potential who use ideas, influence, communication and service to advance sustainable design. Each year, one outstanding student from each accredited LA program in the United States and Canada is recognized, as well as a group of jury-selected graduate and undergraduate students.
“This year was extremely competitive, with 50 graduate and 38 undergraduate student nominees from 64 universities across the U.S. and Canada,” Kedarisetty said. “After thoughtful review, the jury determined the two national winners and six finalists. While I was not among this group, I take pride in being identified as a top student leader in Landscape Architecture and appreciate the significance of being named a 2023 LAF Olmsted Scholar.”
The students were grateful for the opportunity to attend this conference and develop their understanding of Landscape Architecture. “The ASLA 2023 Conference was not just a gathering; it was a milestone in our educational journey,” Kedarisetty said. It has left an indelible mark on both my professional and personal growth, and I am eager to carry these experiences forward into my future endeavors.”
Featured Image: Landscape Architecture students and alumni at the OU happy hour in Minneapolis.