Ebru Özer, ASLA, Associate Professor in the Department of Landscape Architecture + Environmental and Urban Design and Director of Strategic Planning and Initiatives in the College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts has been elevated to the Council of Fellows in the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) for her exceptional contributions to the landscape architecture profession and society at large. Elevation to Fellow is among the highest of honors the ASLA bestows on members and is based on their works, leadership/management, knowledge, and service.
Professor Özer received a nomination in service for her exemplary work in shaping students and future landscape architects locally, statewide, and nationally. In 2015, Ebru played a key role in establishing Future Landscape Architects of America (FLAA) – a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring K-12 students about Landscape Architecture. The model became a benchmark in Miami-Dade County and has been duplicated in many other universities.
In addition, Professor Özer introduced the ACE Mentor Legacy Project to Miami in 2020 where she led the redevelopment of Liberty City Elementary School yard. She also worked extensively with the Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture (CELA) and played a key role in creating the Fountain Scholar Program for black, indigenous, and students of color.
“Engaging with the community and introducing the landscape architecture profession to the younger generation is my true passion,” expresses Professor Özer. “Receiving this recognition is a genuine honor as it underscores the significant impact of our institution in fostering collaboration with our communities to address local challenges.”
“This honor is a testament to Ebru’s sustained and exemplary dedication to our field and our community. We are proud to have faculty who have earned their place among this important and influential group of colleagues who help shape and enrich our society,” adds Roberto Rovira, Professor and Chair of FIU Landscape Architecture + Environmental and Urban Design.
“Landscape architects help build a better world for all of us, and ASLA Fellows represent the most respected and accomplished professionals in the entire field,” says ASLA President Emily O’Mahoney. “This year’s class of ASLA Fellows has made outstanding contributions to people’s health, safety and welfare; environmental sustainability and climate resilience; and stronger communities. Congratulations to the 2023 class of ASLA Fellows!”
“Naming a new class of ASLA Fellows is a joyful reminder of everything that landscape architects do to make our communities more equitable, more beautiful and more resilient,” says ASLA CEO Torey Carter-Conneen. “We extend our warmest thanks to the new class of ASLA Fellows for all of their accomplishments and contributions to human flourishing.”
Congratulations to Professor Özer on this momentous achievement and on bringing growing awareness to Landscape Architecture while giving selflessly to the community.
ASLA Fellows will be elevated during a special investiture ceremony at the 2023 Conference on Landscape Architecture.