Academics

Orland accepts faculty appointment at University of Georgia

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Brian Orland, distinguished professor of landscape architecture, former head of the Department of Landscape Architecture (2000-08) and former director of the Stuckeman School (2009-10), will be leaving Penn State in August to become the Rado Family Foundation Professor at the University of Georgia College of Environment and Design. During his remaining months with the University, in addition to continuing work on his portfolio of research projects, he will hold the Arnold Weddle Chair in Landscape at the University of Sheffield, United Kingdom.

Interdisciplinary by nature, Orland has collaborated with colleagues in five colleges at Penn State beyond Arts and Architecture on research projects focusing on energy conservation in buildings, protection of the Chesapeake Bay watershed and landscape responses to the pressures of Marcellus Shale gas development. With Penn State Landscape Architecture colleague Larry Gorenflo and supported by the Hamer Foundation, Orland launched a study abroad program in Tanzania, a research and service-learning initiative where students examine human and biodiversity needs at Udzungwa Mountains National Park.

“My time at Penn State has been extraordinary for the interdisciplinary research I have been able to pursue, the opportunities I have had to serve at the highest level of the University and for the life-changing educational program we have developed in Tanzania. Penn State is a superb platform for launching great ideas,” said Orland.

Orland's long list of honors includes election as Fellow of the Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture (2013) and of the American Society of Landscape Architects (1999); Outstanding Administrator Award, Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture (2012); Penn State's Undergraduate Program Leadership Award (2011); and one of DesignIntelligence's "Most Admired Educators of 2010." Under his leadership, Penn State's Department of Landscape Architecture was consistently ranked among the top in the nation by DesignIntelligence, an honor the department continues to uphold.

“Professor Orland is a consummate researcher, teacher, professional colleague and university citizen,” said Barbara Korner, dean of the College of Arts and Architecture. “His interdisciplinary research projects with colleagues across the University have raised the profile of our college and demonstrated the far-reaching impact of research in the arts and design. We are very sorry to see him go but wish him the best in his new position at the University of Georgia.”

Brian Orland, distinguished professor of landscape architecture Credit: Penn StateCreative Commons

Last Updated January 10, 2015