ASLA 2026 General Session: The Stories We Build Together: Designing What Happens Next

Wall Street Journal bestselling author and strategic storytelling expert Kindra Hall is trusted by global brands to show how intentional storytelling creates meaningful change.

Brad McCauley is a passionate advocate for landscape architecture, who has spent the last 17 years putting people first and making a difference in the profession. A dedicated member of ASLA, Brad has tirelessly served the profession on local, regional, and national stages. This service has resulted in increased membership, advocacy for STEM designation, and a broader awareness of the profession.

As a practitioner, Brad has led the team at site design group for the past decade as the Managing Principal. The recognition of awards throughout the Midwest and on a National level has been a testimony to Brad’s leadership.  More important has been the steady and managed growth of the firm from ten professionals in 2012 to over sixty professionals today, including full-time employees in Tokyo, Brazil, and an entire team based in Kyiv, Ukraine. Brad’s commitment to inclusive recruiting, hiring, and retention has transformed the culture of the firm to meet today’s market demands and leadership expectations. Under his guidance, the firm’s $2 billion portfolio reflects his commitment to design excellence improving the quality of life for all. For him, good design is not a luxury; it's a right that should be accessible to everyone. 

Brad extends his leadership to various organizations, including The Cultural Landscape Foundation’s Stewardship Council and his Alma Mater’s Department of Landscape Architecture Resource Committee at the University of Illinois. His involvement in local and regional consortiums, panels, and publications showcases his dedication to the broader profession.

Torey joined ASLA as Chief Executive Officer in August 2020. Torey has more than 25 years of experience and expertise in strategic organizational development, tactical implementation, financial stewardship and administrative leadership. He has a proven track record as an innovator and thought leader in the association world, with an aptitude for pioneering strategies to shape organizational priorities, ensure financial stability, and invigorate member recruitment and retention programs.

Prior to joining ASLA, Torey served as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. Prior to his leadership at AILA, Torey was the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Center for American Progress (CAP), COO and later Acting President and CEO at the LGBTQ Victory Fund and Institute, Divisional Controller of MV Transportation—a privately held North American transportation management corporation—and an auditor at a CPA firm.