Hey, YALL! Welcome to the chat. LABash is an annual student-run landscape architecture conference that brings together students and professionals in landscape architecture for a weekend of educational sessions, keynote lectures, social events, networking, and career-building opportunities. This year, for the 51st year of the conference, LABash is being held *in-person* at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana during the weekend of March 31- April 2, 2022.
As a “Roaring River” desires to overtop its banks and flood the area with nutrients for growth and nourishment, similarly this conference is a call to flood the field of landscape architecture with OUR ideas for a future of environmental and social equity. By empowering new and unheard voices, we can be the droplets that join to form something larger, invoking real change through the tools we wield as landscape architects and through innovative collaboration with our allied professions.
Here are 5 reasons why you can’t miss LABash 2022:
Reason #1: THE ENERGY
We sincerely thank the students of Cornell for planning the last two years of the conference, pivoting with the world’s challenges, and bringing us a wonderful virtual experience during “unprecedented times”. We cannot wait to carry that energy forward as we reconnect in person—Landscape Architects can party!! And boy, do we have some lost time to make up for.
Reason # 2: THE KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
This year, we will welcome five professionals as keynote speakers in addition to dozens of other professionals, emerging and experienced! Throughout the pandemic, these are some of the voices that kept us inspired via Instagram, podcasts, New York Times articles, and Zoom lectures. Representing academia, private practice, and the nonprofit world, we know that these game changers will leave you feeling inspired!
Reason #3: THE MAGIC OF LOUISIANA
Known for its jazz music, Mardi Gras traditions, and delicious Cajun food, this is the reason you’ve been waiting for to travel down the Mississippi River! Located in the heart of walkable Downtown Baton Rouge, The Hilton Conference Center will offer discounted lodging ($139/ night) and the convenience of being located where most of the events will take place. The conference center is located along the Mississippi riverfront, providing exciting nightlife and historic landmarks. Come early to explore the Capital Gardens and stay late to walk beneath the mystical oak trees that cover Louisiana State University’s campus.
Reason #4: THE THEME
Our theme the “Roaring River” not only highlights our professions’ impact on major waterways but aims to show students the power we have in shaping the future of our profession. Throughout the weekend, professionals will highlight water issues that impact us all, looking to Louisiana in specific cases to how they have made strides to deal with the fastest eroding coastal land in the country.
Reason #5: EVOLVING FORMATS
Welcoming a new app, WHOVA, will make communication at the conference easier than ever. Following registration, you will be sent a link to create a profile where you can ask questions, view the schedule, coordinate ride sharing, and communicate with hiring professionals. Let’s get the conversation started!
So, in short, come to LABash. We promise you won’t regret it. Register at www.labash.org. We can’t wait to see you there. ASLA Student Members will be eligible to register at the early bird rate of $135 through March 15. We are thrilled to kick off this new partnership!
