Kene Okigbo, ASLA, PLA

Kene Okigbo, PLA, ASLA is a landscape architect at RDG Planning & Design in Omaha, Nebraska, where he focuses on the design and planning of public spaces that foster connection, access, and cultural meaning. A dedicated ASLA member since 2012, Kene has long championed the role of landscape architects in advancing environmental and social justice.

Kene’s leadership within ASLA began as Vice President of North Dakota State University’s student chapter. After earning a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Design in 2015 he quickly moved into professional service, becoming the Emerging Professionals Chair of the Nebraska/Dakotas Chapter and representing landscape architects during national Advocacy Day efforts in 2016, 2018, and 2019.

Kene is the recipient of ASLA’s Emerging Professional Medal and Outstanding Service Award, the Young Urbanist Award from Omaha by Design, and the ENR-ACE National Mentor of the Year Award. His current roles revolve around elevating design efficacy and communicating the stories of our projects and client communities. Throughout his career, and especially now, he has used storytelling and advocacy to elevate the voice of this profession. He believes landscape architecture—when practiced with purpose—will change lives, shape policy, and help the world hurt less.