Small Landscape Architecture Firms Take Action on Climate & Biodiversity - 1.0 PDH (LA CES/non-HSW)

Emily is a Senior Associate and licensed landscape architect at Dana Brown and Associates in New Orleans, Louisiana, with over five years of professional experience. She currently serves as co-chair of the Advocacy Subcommittee of the National ASLA Climate & Biodiversity Action Committee, where she helps develop resources for members and expand the nationwide Climate & Biodiversity Action Network. Emily also serves as Climate Action Chair for the Louisiana Chapter of ASLA, advancing climate and biodiversity initiatives by highlighting how firms across the state are implementing the plan and connecting practitioners with national resources. Driven by a deep commitment to preserving Louisiana’s cultural landscapes and heritage, Emily designs spaces that are both resilient and community centered. 

Aida M. Curtis is a nationally recognized landscape architect with over 40 years of experience advancing climate-responsive design and resilient infrastructure. As Founder and Principal of Curtis + Rogers Design Studio, a leading Hispanic- and woman-owned firm in South Florida, she delivers nature-based solutions that address sea-level rise, extreme heat, and coastal vulnerability while promoting social equity. Aida chairs the ASLA Biodiversity and Climate Action Committee, advising leadership on policies and strategies elevating biodiversity, and climate adaptation across the profession. She serves on the Board of the Landscape Architecture Foundation, championing research, advocacy, and the next generation of climate leaders.

Chelsea is an Associate, AICP-certified planner, and landscape designer at Livable Cities Studio, where she focuses on community-driven, climate-resilient planning and design. She is active in external organizations, serving as the Deputy Director of Marketing & Communications for the WxLA organization and serving as President on the executive board for the ASLA Colorado/Wyoming Chapter. She brings strong communication skills and a collaborative approach to advancing resilient outcomes for communities. Chelsea earned dual master degrees in Landscape Architecture and Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Colorado Denver in 2021.

Amy Syverson‑Shaffer is the Sustainability Lead at Landscape Forms, where she advances environmental stewardship and responsible manufacturing. With a background in landscape architecture, she brings a designer’s perspective to industry and collaborates across disciplines to drive meaningful change, She progresses the company's long-term sustainability roadmap through initiatives in product life cycle assessment, zero‑waste manufacturing, renewable energy, ecological restoration, and more. Amy serves on the ASLA Biodiversity and Climate Action Committee and the Landscape Architecture Foundation Board, frequently presenting on sustainability strategies. She was recently honored with ASLA’s Outstanding Service Award in recognition of exceptional leadership in sustainability and industry collaboration.