TXASLA Hosts DREAM BIG with Design Conference
12/16/2025Leave a Comment
The Dream BIG with Design initiative was introduced by National ASLA in late 2023. The Texas ASLA Chapter, through its Dream BIG efforts, aims to engage high school students in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry, with a specific focus on landscape architecture. The Texas ASLA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee has seamlessly integrated this initiative into its annual Texas Chapter conference to inspire and shape future landscape architects. The event, which got its initial start at the Texas ASLA Austin Conference in April 2024 and continued at the Houston Conference in April 2025, has plans for the next event at the Fort Worth Conference in March 2026.
The implementation of Dream BIG with Design at the Texas ASLA Annual Conference involves leveraging local partnerships, community support, and volunteer networks, as emphasized by the committee members. By summer 2024, our annual Dream BIG event had become a primary focus for the committee. The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee creates and distributes flyers to local schools and organizations to engage 9th-12th-grade students with enriching experiences and interactive sessions they may not find elsewhere. However, the Committee constantly faces logistical challenges such as varying conference venues, school schedules, and catering constraints.
To fund these events, the committee relies on sponsorships from vendors, manufacturers, and budget allocations from the Texas ASLA Chapter Executive Committee. Monthly planning meetings, clear team roles, and effective volunteer coordination are key to the success and sustainability of these events. Designed to be interactive and engaging, the Dream BIG with Design events feature activities like icebreakers, sketching, and model-making, culminating in team presentations by the students.
By fostering strong community partnerships, keeping activities simple and fun, and continuously seeking new funding sources, the Texas ASLA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee ensures that the Dream BIG with Design initiative continues to thrive and inspire the next generation of landscape architects.
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