Kurt Culbertson Named Director of LSU Robert Reich School of Landscape Architecture

Louisiana State University has named Kurt Culbertson, FASLA, FAICP, FCELA, an internationally recognized landscape architect, planner, educator, and LSU alumnus, as the new director of the LSU Robert Reich School of Landscape Architecture. Culbertson begins his appointment on July 1, 2026.

A distinguished leader in the profession for more than five decades, Culbertson returns to his alma mater after an accomplished career spanning design practice, education, and international consulting. He will lead one of the nation's premier landscape architecture programs, consistently ranked among the top programs in the field in the United States.

Culbertson earned his Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from LSU before completing an MBA at Southern Methodist University and a PhD at Edinburgh College of Art. A Fulbright Scholar and Fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), he is the former Chair and CEO of Design Workshop, where he guided the internationally recognized landscape architecture, planning, and urban design firm for 33 years. During his career, he has led projects in 46 states and 23 countries, helping shape communities through innovative design and long-range planning.

“We are excited to welcome Kurt Culbertson back to LSU," said Arne Flaten, Dean of the College of Art & Design. "He brings a wealth of experience, valuable industry connections, and the energy to carry the Robert Reich School of Landscape Architecture to the next level of exceptional success."

Throughout his career, Culbertson has championed the role of landscape architecture in addressing some of society's most pressing challenges, including climate resilience, sustainable development, community health, and cultural preservation. His work has earned numerous national and international honors, including the ASLA Medal and the 2026 ASLA Design Medal, two of the profession's highest recognitions.

“I am honored to return to LSU, where my journey as a landscape architect began,” Culbertson said.

"The Robert S. Reich School of Landscape Architecture has long been a leader in design education, and I look forward to working with its exceptional faculty, students, alumni, and partners to build on that legacy. As envisioned by our founder, Robert S. Reich, the school prepares graduates to excel in practice, teaching, and research. At this moment, landscape architects have an essential role to play in addressing the environmental and social challenges facing our communities, while creating beautifully designed landscapes of enduring quality in Louisiana, across the nation, and around the world.”

Founded more than 80 years ago, the Robert Reich School of Landscape Architecture (RRSLA) has earned an international reputation for excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. The school prepares students to address complex issues involving ecological systems, resilient communities, public space, and environmental stewardship through nationally recognized undergraduate and graduate degree programs

As director, Culbertson will provide strategic leadership for the school's academic programs, faculty, research initiatives, and partnerships while strengthening its role as a leader in landscape architecture education and practice.

Culbertson's appointment comes at a time of continued momentum for the LSU RRSLA, whose students and faculty are advancing projects that improve communities throughout Louisiana while addressing critical issues such as coastal resilience, urban revitalization, and sustainable design. 

The College of Art & Design thanks Brent Fortenberry, Associate Dean of Research & Graduate Studies, who served as Interim Dean of RRSLA prior to Culbertson’s appointment.
Learn more about the LSU Robert Reich School of Landscape Architecture.