Awards

2024 Council of Fellows Scholarship Winners

The Council of Fellows scholarship program was founded in 2004 to: 

• aid outstanding students who would not otherwise have an opportunity to continue a professional degree program due to unmet financial need;    
• increase the interest and participation of economically disadvantaged and under-represented populations in the study of landscape architecture; and  
• enrich the profession of landscape architecture through a more diverse population.  

Since the scholarship program’s inception, the Council has awarded forty students from over twenty programs across the country. The students have had the opportunity to attend the annual conference where they have networked with members, attended education sessions and special events such as the award ceremonies and the investiture dinner. The students regularly attend the Fellows business meeting where they receive their certificates.  

Your financial support of the scholarship program is essential to meet our goal and ensure we provide the next generation with the funds they need to continue their education. Please donate or pledge now to help us meet our target. Pledges may be fulfilled over a three-year period. Please indicate that the donation is for "Council of Fellows" or "COF" in the "why you support LAF" box. 

Congratulations to the 2024 Scholarship Winners!

 Carington Light 

BLA, North Carolina A&T State University

Award: $10,000

Carington Light is a graduating senior at North Carolina A&T State University. As a kid she traveled to multiple National Park Services; growing her appreciation for nature and what it can provide. She wants others to see that nature is more than seasonal allergies and bugs. One of her career goals is to inspire other young landscape architect students. With her love for nature comes her love for plants. She doesn't have a great green thumb but tries her best when it comes to gardening. 

Aisha Malik 

BLA, University of Rhode Island

Award: $5,000

Aisha Malik is a Pakistani & Ukrainian female first-generation American and college student from Fairbanks Alaska, attending the University of Rhode Island for her BLA in Landscape Architecture. She plans to work as a landscape architect in Alaska, helping the Arctic climate crisis through sustainable outdoor design. With Landscape Architecture being a relatively small field in Alaska, Aisha intends to bring awareness toward the profession as well. Additionally, she enjoys making art inspired by Alaska’s vast landscapes, rock climbing, fishing, gardening, and hiking!

  Juan Perez

BLA, University of Florida

Award: $5,000

Juan Perez is an interdisciplinary designer studying landscape architecture and philosophy at the University of Florida. He focuses on the dynamic interplay of design, culture, and environment. As a first-generation American and college student, Juan is dedicated to exploring the ethical dimensions of computational, parametric, and AI-driven solutions in promoting equity, social diversity, and biodiversity. In his design philosophy, he prioritizes empathy, curiosity, and versatility.

  Essince Smith

BLA, Ball State University

Award: $5,000

Essince Smith (she/her) is a fifth-year landscape architecture student at Ball State University - College of Architecture and Planning who thrives on collaborative endeavors. She actively engages in community initiatives such as volunteering with Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, Inc. —a youth organization dedicated to sustainable community development. In this role, she contributes to tree planting, watering, and maintenance in local neighborhoods. In leadership positions, she has served as a resident assistant and event coordinator for Student Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects and volunteer for the American Society of Landscape Architects. 

Her interactions with like-minded individuals passionate about shaping the future as designers fuel her enthusiasm. Eager to make a positive impact, Essince is proud to be a part of future designers realizing and shaping meaningful changes in the world. Her outgoing and optimistic nature, coupled with a unique perspective, defines her approach. She aspires to contribute her design skills to a team with an open mindset and lofty expectations for creating a better world. 

  Ava Yon

BLA, Michigan State University

Award: $5,000

Ava Yon is a second year student in the program and involves herself in MiASLA and the MSU LA Club. She graduated from Fowlerville High School in 2021 and started at MSU right away. She enjoys trying new things and visiting new places. Ava is passionate about her work and is always eager to learn more. One day Ava hopes to give back to communities the way they have given to her.