University of Florida Workshop Launches New Summer Program

This summer, nearly 30 students from Kut Different, a youth mentorship organization based in Ocala, Florida, attended the inaugural “Intro to Landscape Architecture” workshop at the University of Florida. For many, it was their first time on a college campus and their first hands-on exposure to the world of design. The event was the result of a Leadership Florida connection between Nicole Plunkett, Partner at Cotleur & Hearing Partner and founder of Future Landscape Architects of America (FLAA), and Jamie Gilmore Jr., CEO of Kut Different. As former classmates of Leadership Florida Connect Class 13, the two had long discussed ways to collaborate around mentorship and education. This workshop brought that vision to life.

Hosted by the UF Department of Landscape Architecture, the students learned about scale, sketching, and design, and presented their ideas to the group. They were supported by UF faculty, current students, and volunteers, including Cotleur & Hearing landscape designer Will Marshall, who generously gave his time to mentor participants throughout the day. The timing of the event was especially meaningful, as FLAA celebrates its 10-year anniversary this year. Founded in 2015, FLAA has reached thousands of K–12 students across Florida and the country with a mission to increase awareness of landscape architecture and inspire future professionals through hands-on education, community partnerships, and mentorship. Many of the students later described the experience as one of the most inspiring and impactful opportunities they’ve ever had. The event will now become an annual summer tradition that brings together leadership, design, and mentorship to empower the next generation of creative thinkers and community leaders.