Nomination & Selection Process

The Olmsted Scholars Program recognizes outstanding student leaders from each accredited landscape architecture program in the U.S. and Canada. Olmsted Scholars are nominated by the faculty from each university. Students do not apply directly to the Olmsted Scholars Program.

Step 1: Nominations from Faculty

Each LAAB-accredited* landscape architecture program may nominate one student to be the school’s University Olmsted Scholar and compete for the national award. Eligible students are graduate students or undergraduates currently in their fourth or fifth year who have made a commitment to the landscape architecture profession.

To nominate a student, a faculty member must e-mail a completed Nomination Form to scholarships@lafoundation.org from his/her university account. By submitting this form the department chair attests that the faculty as a whole supports the nomination.

*CSLA-accredited for Canadian schools

Step 2: Full Submissions from Faculty/Nominees

LAF must receive a complete Nominee Submission Packet by the designated deadline in order for the nominee to be eligible for the Olmsted Scholar award and recognition. This packet includes items to be completed by the nominating faculty and the nominee. All nominees with complete submissions will be recognized as University Olmsted Scholars.

Step 3: Selection by Jury

The National Olmsted Scholar and 4-5 Finalists are selected by an independent jury of leaders in the landscape architecture profession. Candidates are evaluated on their past achievements and their future potential to influence the landscape architecture profession. Criteria for selection include the candidate’s leadership potential in (1) the advancement of sustainable planning and design, and (2) fostering human and societal benefits, as assessed through the candidate’s demonstration of:

• leadership and vision
• engagement with current issues
• critical thinking
• communication skill
• personal characteristics and values

Recognition and Benefits for Olmsted Scholars

National Olmsted Scholar
   -  $25,000 award
   -  Ongoing recognition through use of title: “2012 National Olmsted Scholar”

National Olmsted Scholar Finalists
   -  $1,000 award
   -  Ongoing recognition through use of title: “2012 National Olmsted Scholar Finalist”

University Olmsted Scholars (for all nominees)
   -  2 complimentary tickets to the LAF Annual Benefit on September 28, 2012*
   -  Publicity and recognition through LAF website, outreach materials, and announcements and
      articles in landscape architecture publications
   -  Opportunity to network with other Olmsted Scholars, LAF Board members and sponsors
      during a private luncheon before the LAF Annual Benefit
   -  Networking and mentoring opportunities through the growing community of past and present
      Olmsted Scholars
   -  Ongoing recognition through use of title: “2012 University Olmsted Scholar”

      *Attendance required for National Olmsted Scholar