School of Planning, Design and Construction

Dear MSU Landscape Architecture Alumni and Friends,

It is with great enthusiasm that I address you as the President of the Michigan State University Landscape Architecture Alumni Advisory Board. Our board is composed of a dedicated and diverse group of professionals from across the country, representing a broad spectrum of public and private practice within our field. Together, we are committed to strengthening our alumni network and enhancing opportunities for current students as they prepare to enter the profession.

“Reflecting on the past year we can celebrate improved program support and student enrichment activities including a stimulating fall speaker program on climate resilience featuring  SuLin Kotowicz, the ASLA National President, Trevor Bosworth, Principal, VIRIDIS Design Group and Nicole Horst, Principal, Wenk Associations. Our board also supported successful student activities including sponsorship of two campus sketch walks led by Bob Chipman and Danny Bulemore, participation in the distinguished alumni award program,  project reviews and student portfolio reviews before the first program wide career fair and the Distinguished Alumni celebration honoring Michael Duhl. In partnership with the ASLA Club, the board hosted a successful social event following the career fair, where professionals and students participated. I have had the privilege of serving as LAAAB President for the past two years, supported by an excellent executive committee and board. I pass the torch confident that the Alumni Board, the LA Program, and the SPCD school will become more effective each year. I look forward to supporting and seeing continued progress under President Tim Britain's leadership in collaboration with current and continuing ExCom board members, Vicki McGhee, Katy Hallgren, and new member Dan Wenk.” - Sandy Fischer, Immediate Past President

Supporting the next generation of landscape architects is at the heart of our mission. Through initiatives such as our Speaker Series, where we address the pressing issues impacting our profession, we bring experts to campus to share their insights and experiences. At this year’s Speaker Series, a panel of national and local experts will discuss the increasing pressure on public recreational lands. The balance between access and preservation is part art, politics and science, and these individuals will share decades of experience in the design and management of some of our most iconic national treasures.

Events like the Sketch Crawl foster creativity and engagement between students and alumni, while the Career Fair provides a critical platform for students to connect with potential employers and mentors. Additionally, the Distinguished Alumni Award celebrates the outstanding achievements of our graduates, reinforcing the impact of MSU alumni within the profession.

Our commitment to student enrichment extends beyond these events. We actively support mentoring and portfolio reviews, ensuring students receive valuable feedback as they prepare for their careers. Project partnering and firm tours create hands-on learning experiences and foster direct connections between students and industry professionals. These initiatives provide real-world insight and help bridge the gap between academia and practice.

In addition to programming, our ongoing commitment to financial support for student enrichment is crucial. Contributions from our alumni allow us to fund scholarships, support travel opportunities, such as attending national and Michigan ASLA, and enhance hands-on learning experiences. Your generosity directly impacts students by opening doors to new educational and professional development opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.

Our Board fosters a stronger and more connected alumni network through regional gatherings, online engagement, and in-person events, where the sense of community we build extends beyond graduation. By strengthening our alumni connections, we enrich professional engagement and create a thriving network that supports and uplifts the entire MSU Landscape Architecture community.

As we look to the future, I invite each of you to take an active role in shaping the legacy of MSU Landscape Architecture. Your involvement, in whatever capacity, strengthens our profession and supports the next generation of Spartan landscape architects. Thank you for your continued commitment to MSU, our students, and the landscape architecture community. Take some time to rekindle past friendships, visit our beautiful campus, and remind yourself what a special place and valuable program MSU Landscape Architecture is. We are excited about the impact we can continue to make together, and I look forward to working alongside you in the year ahead.  Any of our Board members would be happy to discuss what we do and help you find an opportunity for engagement that suites you best.  Please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Go Green!

Tim Britain
President, MSU, Landscape Architecture Alumni Advisory Board (LAAAB)