LABash is an annual, student-run landscape architecture conference that brings together students and professionals in the field for a weekend of educational sessions, keynote lectures, social events, networking, and career-building. This year, for the 50th anniversary of the conference, LABash is being held at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. During the weekend of April 2-4, students and professionals from across the country will come together to celebrate the theme “Rise Above Run” and hear first-hand from professionals about how they have overcome obstacles relating to the environment and social justice through the power of design. LABash is so much more than a conference – it is a sneak-peak into the future of landscape architecture. It is reassurance that the next generation of designers can learn how to rise above their own personal obstacles and foster a community of learning, fun, and collaboration. Still not convinced? Here are 5 reasons why you simply can’t miss LABash:
- The Keynotes
For the first time ever, LABash is packed with five keynote speakers – because we couldn’t settle for anything less. Our keynote speakers include:
- Michael Van Valkenburgh, MVVA
- Martha Schwartz, Martha Schwartz Partners
- Mia Lehrer, Studio-MLA
- Signe Nielsen, MNLA
- Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver, NYC Parks
LABash 2020 Keynotes
We are grateful to have so many talented landscape architects join our program, and we can’t wait to hear what they have in store for us.
- The Theme
Inspired by the landmark Libe Slope located on Cornell’s campus, the theme for this year’s LABash is “Rise Above Run.” Through this theme, we want to challenge designers to reflect on how they have used landscape architecture as a medium to “rise above” issues related to the environment, climate change, rising sea levels, social justice, and their own personal obstacles. You’re guaranteed to learn something that will be useful in your career as a student and beyond.
- The Place
This is the first time ever that LABash has been held in New York. We are so lucky to have professionals from several NY-based firms, including SCAPE, MVVA, FutureGreen, MNLA, MSP, and so many more, joining us for educational sessions and workshops. But networking opportunities aside, Ithaca is surrounded by natural gorges and beautiful hills and is the perfect place for a nature-lover to spend a weekend. Additionally, we will be having amazing social events that highlight the nightlife of Ithaca.
Land8 Happy Hour at LABash 2019!
- The Year
Did we mention that it is the 50th anniversary of LABash?! The first ever conference was held in 1970 at the University of Guelph, and it has rotated to a different school every year. We feel fortunate to be hosting the conference for the first time at Cornell and we promise to not disappoint.
LABash 2019; Photo: University of Georgia, College of Environment and Design
- The People
One of the most special parts about LABash is the unique and diverse group of people that come together to celebrate our community. While the conference is run by students, it fosters relationships between professionals, universities, firms, vendors, alumni, and so many more. But most importantly, we are all united under the common enthusiasm and excitement about the future of our profession.
So, in short, come to LABash. We promise you won’t regret it. Register at www.labash.org — early bird rates expire on January 15th! We can’t wait to see you there.
Published in Blog, Cover Story, Featured
