I was recently honored to be appointed by New Jersey Governor Chris Christie to the state’s Board of Architects. I am joined by one other landscape architect on the board, which also includes several architects, an interior designer, and a government representative.

We have a number of responsibilities, including the review of qualifications of architects, landscape architects, and interior designers seeking licensure in New Jersey. We also review submissions for continuing education credits, provide guidance on regulations, and address professional disciplinary issues. By carrying out these important tasks, the board fulfills its mission of helping to protect the health, safety, and welfare of all who reside in and visit the state.

Independent Yet Integrated

We meet monthly and take seriously our responsibility as advocates for the public. It’s vital that we all stay current in the practice and bring a discerning eye to licensure requests and the review of continuing education submissions. The professional standards and licensing requirements are quite demanding for all three professions, as they should be. New Jersey’s model, bringing architects, landscape architects, and interior designers together to serve on the board, is a good one—reflecting both the independent stature and integrated nature of all three professions.

Prior to this appointment, I had the opportunity to serve on the New Jersey Landscape Architects Evaluation and Examination Committee for eight years. The work of this committee has now merged with the NJ Board of Architects, following changes in the state’s licensing law for landscape architects from title to practice law. This change makes licensing in our profession more restrictive and challenging, a move that protects the public interest. I look forward to contributing to the work of the board. It is truly an honor.