Leading with Purpose: Inspiring the Next Generation of Landscape Architects
Jael Wagoner, PLA, ASLA
2026-2027 Chapter President
As the North Carolina Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects enters the 2026–2027 term, we are proud to introduce our new Chapter President, Jael Wagoner, PLA, ASLA.
A U.S. Navy Veteran and Principal Landscape Architect at Finch & Associates, Jael brings over two decades of dedicated service, leadership, and expertise to her role. For Jael, leadership is not simply about guiding the present; it is about leading with purpose—building intentional pathways for future designers, expanding public awareness of the profession, and investing directly in the students who represent the future of landscape architecture in North Carolina.
"When we lead with purpose, every action we take serves a greater mission. My primary focus this year is cultivating and supporting the next generation of landscape architects. That starts by igniting a passion for design in K-12 students and championing our student chapters at NC State and NC A&T as they transition into tomorrow's leaders."
— Jael Wagoner, PLA, ASLA
Core Strategic Initiatives for 2026–2027
Under Jael’s leadership, NCASLA will channel its purpose into three key pillars:
1. K-12 Career Discovery & STEM/STEAM Outreach
Building a vibrant, diverse, and resilient future for landscape architecture begins with early inspiration. NCASLA is establishing a structured, proactive approach to career discovery for the 2026–2027 term and beyond. Through direct outreach in K–12 classrooms, community programs, and career expos across North Carolina, our members will demonstrate how landscape architects blend art, science, and community planning to shape the world around us. Spearheaded by our dedicated K–12 Initiative Committee, we are excited to map out a plan to partner with educators and youth organizations statewide and deliver hands-on design experiences that showcase the tangible impact of our profession to the next generation.
2. Uplifting Our SASLA Student Chapters
North Carolina is home to two world-class landscape architecture programs: the Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) program at North Carolina State University and the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) program at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
During the 2026-2027 term, the NCASLA Executive Committee will focus on strengthening the active bridge between the professional chapter, both Landscape Architecture programs and their SASLA chapters, and the student bodies they serve:
3. Purposeful Advocacy & Mentorship
In addition to student-centered initiatives, NCASLA will continue its ongoing mission to safeguard professional licensure standards, ensuring that emerging professionals entering the workforce step into a well-supported, highly valued discipline.
Get to Know Jael
Professional Role: Principal Landscape Architect at Finch & Associates
Chapter Involvement: NCASLA Conference Committee Member (2019-2021), NCASLA Conference Committee Chair (2021–2025), Member-at-Large | Awards (2023–2025), 2026 SERC Planning Committee Chair, 2025-2026 President Elect
Fun Facts: Hailing from Northern New York, Jael belongs to the rare group of landscape architects who entered college as a declared LA major from day one, earning her degree from SUNY ESF. A die-hard Syracuse Orange fan who also bleeds green, Jael has always been clear on her passions and firmly believes that "Go Birds" is THE universal greeting, statement, and salutation.
Why does she love living in North Carolina? To Jael, it’s all about the topography: she loves the escape of the mountains and the tranquility of the sea for completely different reasons—making NC hands-down the best state to be!
Core Philosophy: "True leadership leaves a legacy. By investing in young minds today, we ensure our communities are designed with care, vision, and stewardship for generations to come."
A Call to Action for NCASLA Members
"The student body at NC State and NC A&T, along with the K-12 students who haven't yet heard of landscape architecture, are relying on our collective expertise, encouragement, and support. I call on each of our members to give back this year—volunteer for a classroom visit, mentor an MLA or BLA student, or sponsor a SASLA event. Let’s lead with purpose, together."
To Get Involved in Student Mentorship & Outreach:
· Go to Volunteer to join our K-12 Initiative Committee
· Reach out to our SASLA Presidents to support SASLA events, or
· Email the NCSU Professional Mentor Program for ways to support and sponsor mentorship initiatives