Congratulations to Anne Coke, a proud graduate of our Top 25 ranked School of Architecture Class of 2025, for being selected as CARTA’s Outstanding Graduate for Spring 2025!
Anne’s commitment to academic excellence, design integrity, and community impact has not only earned her this distinguished honor but also set the stage for her future success as a landscape architect.
As a mid-career professional, Anne returned to FIU to pursue a Master’s in Landscape Architecture—a journey she describes as both daunting and transformative. Through hands-on projects, real-world collaborations, and a growing expertise in regional and sustainable design, she found new clarity in her purpose. Her time in the program affirmed her passion for holistic, pragmatic landscape solutions that address the evolving environmental and societal needs of our time.
We’re proud to celebrate Anne’s incredible achievement and can’t wait to see the meaningful contributions she’ll bring to the field.
We asked Anne 10 questions about her journey at FIU and here’s what she had to say :
1. What sparked your interest in the field of landscape architecture?
Pamela Crawford, a gardening expert and designer in South Florida, FIU SOA alum and recipient of the SOA “Torch Award” sparked my interest in pursuing a degree in landscape architecture. I admired her achievements as a designer, garden writer and businesswoman.
Additionally, I wanted to become involved in Florida Department of Transportation’s highway beautification projects and knew I needed to further my education, and skill sets within landscape architecture to be qualified to contribute to such projects.
2. Describe your first-year experience as a student in the LAEUD program?
My first year in the LAEUD program was transformative and inspiring. I immediately fell in love with the program and coursework. I developed hand drawing skills, presented my studio work to professionals in the industry, learned about sensitive South Florida ecosystems and was challenged by professors to approach a problem with research and a different perspective outside of my own.
3. What has been your favorite project during your time in the program?
All the graduate design studios (GD1-GD5) gave me such great insight into the current social and environmental challenges of our time. However, my favorite project was GD2 with Professor Ebru Ozer. The project site was the rural town of Tillamook, OR which faced reoccurring flooding challenges due to extreme flooding events. I enjoyed learning about the indigenous culture, colonization, the negative impacts of agriculture on ecosystem services, and understanding the needs of growing community. I felt a bond and a deep connection to this small town when I visited the site after my studio work was completed. I highly recommend Tillamook ice cream too!
4. What is your favorite memory as an FIU student?
Two cohorts and I traveled with Professor Ozer to Portland, OR to present our research work at the 2023 Coastal Estuarine Research Foundation (CERF) Conference. Speaking at a conference as a student was an incredible opportunity, but my favorite memory was a walking tour of notable Portland landscape architecture projects led by Professor Ozer.
5. What was a challenge you faced during your studies, and how were you able to overcome it?
There are only two (2) accredited landscape architecture programs in Florida. Florida International University in Miami being the closest to my home in Palm Beach County, the commute was challenging but do-able. Most of our coursework was in-person versus online. Therefore, I logged many miles and hours in the car traveling to and from campus to complete the 3-year track. I maximized my commute by listening to industry related podcasts and audio books. This supplemented my course studies.
6. Were you active in any clubs at FIU? What was that experience like?
I was an ALSA FL student member. As a student member, you can volunteer at the annual ASLA state conference and receive a discounted registration fee. I appreciated being of service, exposure to professionals in the industry, and having the opportunity to attend the conference’s educational sessions. This student club offered many different experiences to get out in nature and explore South Florida ecosystems like a swamp walk in Big Cypress and an air boat tour in the Everglades!
7.Is there a particular goal you have achieved during your time at FIU?.
Maintaining full-time student status while holding a full-time job was a challenge. My goal going into the program was to finish the 3-year track without delay. I made my coursework a priority by attending classes and submitting assignments on time. Graduating on-time was achieved with the added unexpected achievement of graduating Summa Cum Laude.
8. What went through your mind on graduation day?
On graduation day, I was grateful for the ability to further my education and attend a safe environment to receive higher learning. I was thankful for the resources, time and talent the professors gave to every student. I felt blessed to have the support of my family while pursuing my degree and attending the graduation event. I felt proud and accomplished that I dedicated time to further my career by earning a postgraduate degree in a field that supports my passion.
9. Any exciting plans now that you’ve graduated?
I am joining Prime AE, a multi-disciplinary firm. I will be working in the Land Division, specifically the Design Planning and Landscape Architecture Team. It is under the guidance of these professional landscape architects I will pursue licensure.
10. Do you have a piece of advice for our current and future SOA students?
School is your time to explore new perspectives when solving design problems. Allow your studio work to challenge your thought process, design expression and limitations. This is an academic exercise so have the courage to go big and think outside of the box.
