As many of you know, the conclusion of the Conference on Landscape Architecture (November 15-18) marks the point at which newly elected candidates begin their term on the Executive Committee (ExCom). ASLA Oregon is exceptionally lucky this year to be welcoming the following individuals into their positions on the ExCom. Here is an introduction to our new leaders, and a little bit more about the Chapter work that they will be doing.
Please join me in welcoming these new ExCom members into their positions!
Allison K. Rouse, ASLA, Oregon Chapter President
Allison K. Rouse (President) – Allison brings many years of project management experience to the office of President. Her mission is to support the Executive Committee in all things, grow our treasured corps of volunteers, and nurture our family of sponsors to advance the profession of landscape architecture in Oregon. Allison believes that every ASLA event should inspire and deepen our connections to work and our community. Suggestions? Want to help? Give Allison a call!
Mary Stewart (Past President) – The ExCom is so pleased to have Mary’s collaborative facilitation skills and creative point of view for another year. In 2019, she led the ExCom to produce a series of really meaningful events, spearheaded an overhaul of our sponsorship package and effectively advocated for Federal pieces of legislation affecting landscape architecture. Thanks, Mary, for setting the example.
Charlie Brucker (President-elect) – Charlie will bring his design and management skills to the role of President Elect this year. To prepare for his role as President next year he’ll be watching and listening in on Chapter activities, including attending the Fall and Spring Chapter Presidents’ Council meetings, as well as participating in the 2020 Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill this May. Charlie is interested in the excellence of Oregon ASLA’s programs. Thinking of joining the ExCom or stepping up to support your Section? Talk with Charlie.
Brian Martin (Treasurer) – Brian is a generous and detail-oriented soul who says he stepped up to pay forward the benefits he has received from ASLA Oregon over the years. In the role of Treasurer, he will work with the bank accounts and tax returns, help to keep the Chapter in the black, and spearhead development of each year’s budget. He’ll be the main point of contact on administration of the Chapter’s sponsorship program. Thanks for stepping up to give back, Brian.
Jake Marshall (Communications Chair) – Jake is a new-ish Portlander who’s day job is to create healthful, equitable public spaces. As Communications Chair, Jake will keep us all informed with articles like this one on the website and in NewsWire. He will generate content across all of our platforms, and coordinate closely with our new Social Media Committee to be sure that the word gets out about ASLA Oregon’s activities. Welcome, Jake and thanks!
Anna Chen (Emerging Professionals Chair) – Anna is excited to keep building on the success of projects like Sketch PDX and other events that engage younger Oregon ASLA members and help them find their place within our professional community. And, did you notice the beautiful Design Symposium program? Thank Anna!
Alexis Griffin and Laurie Mooney (Willamette Valley Co-Chairs) – Alexis is interested in how the systems, forces, and networks in our landscapes and built environments manifest themselves in the botanical vernacular. Laurie is an expert in design and management of sustainable agricultural landscapes. As Co-Chairs, Alexis and Laurie will be planning events and increasing CEU opportunities for Oregon ASLA members in the Willamette Valley. They are collaborating on a calendar of events for 2020, so keep your eye out on the Newswire for information about Section events.
Rebecca Cruze (University of Oregon Student Chapter President) – Rebecca is pursuing a Bachelors of Landscape Architecture while managing her own landscape design business. She and her cohorts at the U of O have big plans for the Student Chapter, including building a long-range financial plan to fund student participation in professional development activities. They look forward to meeting most of you at the 27th Annual Shadow Mentor Day on Friday, February 7, 2020.
Of course, we are incredibly grateful for the work of ExCom members who are continuing their terms from last year: Jean Seneschal-Biggs (Trustee), Patrick Sweeney (VP of Chapter Services), Jen D’Avanzo (Secretary), Laura Zanetto (Education Chair), Chelsea Schneider and Perry Brooks (High Desert Section Co-Chairs), Brian Stuhr (Sponsorship Chair), and our intrepid Chapter Administrator, Stephanie Kennedy.
And BIG THANKS to the outgoing ExCom members: Andreas Stavropolous, Shannon Simms, Andrew Jepson-Sullivan, Casey Howard and Rebecca Shepard. We will miss you and are so grateful for the energy and experience you shared with us. Come back and visit soon!
As a reminder, all ASLA members are always welcome to attend monthly ExCom meetings on the 2nd Monday each month, in person or online. Your input and attendance are always welcome. A big thanks to Alta Planning for hosting the 2019-2020 monthly meetings!