ASLA 2026 Conference on Landscape Architecture / Nobile-Morris Photography

Civic Engagement Program

Landscape architects shape the places where people live, work, and play. ASLA’s Civic Engagement Program helps members bring their expertise to public leadership, from boards to elected office.


Applications are now open for the inaugural Civic Appointments Track cohort. This virtual learning series will equip landscape architects with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to pursue appointments to public boards, commissions, and other civic leadership positions.


Applications are due Friday, October 23, 2026.

Apply to Join the Inaugural Cohort

A Message from ASLA CEO Torey Carter-Conneen

Landscape architects bring valuable expertise to decisions about parks, transportation, water, public spaces, resilience, and community development. Many of those decisions are made by public boards, commissions, councils, and other governing bodies.


ASLA wants more landscape architects at those tables.

Landscape architects who are interested in expanding their impact through civic and public service. Whether you are curious about serving on a local board or commission, exploring opportunities for public leadership, or simply want to learn how to get involved, the Civic Engagement Program will provide the knowledge, tools, and connections to help you take the next step.

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Two Pathways to Public Leadership

The Civic Engagement Program offers two pathways to help landscape architects pursue public leadership opportunities through appointed service or elected office.

The Civic Appointments Track is a virtual learning series designed to prepare landscape architects to pursue opportunities to serve on public boards, commissions, and other appointed bodies.

Through interactive sessions led by experienced professionals, participants will learn how to identify appointment opportunities, navigate the application and selection process, communicate their professional expertise, and position themselves for meaningful civic leadership.

The inaugural cohort will include 20–40 participants and is expected to begin in November 2026. Applications must be submitted by Friday, October 23, 2026.

A future program pathway for landscape architects interested in exploring how their professional expertise and leadership experience can translate into elected public service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Applications for the inaugural Civic Appointments Track cohort are due Friday, October 23, 2026.

ASLA members who are interested in serving their communities through appointments to public boards, commissions, and other civic bodies are encouraged to apply. Previous government or political experience is not required. The program is designed to help members build the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to pursue civic leadership opportunities.

Participants will learn how to identify appointment opportunities, navigate application and selection processes, communicate their professional expertise, and position themselves for service on public boards and commissions. Applicants do not need to have a specific appointment opportunity identified. The program will help participants explore opportunities that align with their interests, expertise, and communities.

The Civic Appointments Track is expected to begin in November 2026, with additional virtual sessions taking place through early 2027. Additional scheduling information will be provided to selected participants. Participants should plan to attend and actively participate in the virtual learning sessions and complete any light preparation or follow-up activities associated with the program.

There is no cost to participate in the Civic Appointments Track.

ASLA expects to select approximately 20–40 members for the inaugural Civic Appointments Track cohort. Applications will be reviewed by ASLA’s Government Affairs Advisory Committee (GAAC), which will select participants based on the information provided through the application process.

Yes. Applicants are required to submit a letter of recommendation from their respective ASLA chapter leadership. The recommendation should address the applicant’s interest in civic engagement, commitment to participating fully in the program, and potential to apply what they learn through service in their community. Chapter support also helps connect participants with their local ASLA chapters as they identify and pursue civic leadership opportunities.

Selected participants will be notified following the application review and selection process. Additional details regarding the program schedule and next steps will be provided at that time.

The Running for Elected Office Track, planned for Summer 2027, will provide training and resources for landscape architects interested in exploring a run for elected office.

For questions about the Civic Engagement Program, contact ASLA Government Affairs at [email protected].