School of Planning, Design and Construction

I have had the great opportunity to serve as interim program leader for Michigan State University’s Landscape Architecture program this past year.

We have had quite a few changes recently. Dr. Jun-Hyun Kim, who will now serve as the program leader and faculty member moving forward, has worked with me to make a smooth transition; as the photo attests, the baton has been passed successfully! I am very excited to help and support his future endeavors for the program.

We have also hired a new director for the School of Planning, Design and Construction, Dr. Ming-Han Li, who will be guiding our school and the next generation of outstanding student graduates.

While serving as interim program leader, I helped organize and manage the landscape architecture curriculum, including teaching assignments, budgets and endowments, and coordinating with our alumni advisory board to advance student achievement. I also ensured a rewarding career fair, with over 25 firms represented and many students hired. We had a fruitful visit from National ASLA, recognized distinguished alumni, and enjoyed a fun vertical studio experience. This day of excitement helped align LA program goals with both the university and the profession.

I will continue my efforts to advocate for the students and be their conduit to the faculty, and I will work to aid Jun-Hyun in his success. Among other things, he will continue streamlining the process for applying to upper division, as well as providing clear information about the scholarships that are available to the students.

I now have an appreciation and better understanding of the role of program leader and the amount of work it entails. I also better understand the students’ experience, which helps me to continue to support them so that they have a rich experience in the MSU LA program.

I will be behind the scenes continuing my efforts in making our LA program the best it can be! GO GREEN!