ASU landscape architect earns distinct honor

Arizona State University landscape architect Byron Sampson was recently named a 2025 Fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects — one of the highest honors in the field.

Sampson is one of 50 landscape architects nationwide to receive the distinction this year. The honor recognizes exceptional contributions to the profession through works, leadership, service and innovation.

Over his 45-year career — including 16 years at ASU — Sampson has led transformative design initiatives related to sustainability and a connection to place. Since joining the university in 2009, he has helped reshape ASU campuses by developing designs rooted in the Sonoran Desert.

His work has guided major open space projects, including the Cancer Garden at Biodesign C and the rehabilitation of Palm Walk on the Tempe campus.

“I’m incredibly proud to help protect and create sites of memory that shape how students experience the university, physically and mentally,” Sampson said. “This honor reflects the work of our team and ASU’s leadership in sustainable site development.”

In addition to his work at ASU, Sampson serves on two national boards — the Black Landscape Architects Network and the Association of University Landscape Architects.

Sampson will be formally inducted into the ASLA Council of Fellows at next month’s 2025 Conference on Landscape Architecture.