From left: Sharon Gamson Danks and Alejandra Chiesa (MS/MLA '01) of Green Schoolyards America, the organization that was the recipient of the inaugural ASLA Fund Catalyst Award.
October 7, 2026
Congratulations to Alejandra Chiesa (MSc, MLA '01) and her team at Green Schoolyards America, who have been awarded the inaugural American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Fund Catalyst Award. The award recognizes individuals and organizations whose work demonstrates the power of landscape architecture to create healthier, more equitable and more resilient communities.
Chiesa is vice president of Green Schoolyards America. Founded by Sharon Gamson Danks, MLA-MCP, the organization transforms asphalt-covered school grounds into dynamic, nature-based learning environments. Their national leadership demonstrates how public schoolyards can address urban heat, improve stormwater management, and foster environmental equity—ensuring children have daily access to the natural world.
Specialization
Landscape Architecture