LABash
LABash is an annual conference held for students of Landscape Architecture. Though GeneRally held with American students, many have traveled from Canada and some as far as South Korea and New Zealand. The Conference consists of guest speakers, workshops, design charettes, expos and social events.
It was first founded by three Landscape Architecture students from the University of Guelph. It began as a road trip for the three students to various universities in North America with Landscape Architecture programs to meet, share and exchange knowledge and skills. In 1970 the first LABash conference was held at the University of Guelph in 1970. It has then become a tradition to host the conference in different universities every year where professionals, past graduates, current students and related fields have joined to celebrate and learn AbOUT the profession.
2006 Conference
University of Maryland from March 23 to 26, 2006.
2007 Conference
Louisiana State University hosted the Conference with the theme "Survive" from February 22 to 24, 2007. It was held in the Baton Rouge Sheraton Hotel. Some speakers included Peter Walker whom is known for his project on the World Trade Center Memorial and futurist David Zach. The conference hosted over 700 students and 150 professionals. www.labash.lsu.edu
2008 Conference
University of Guelph held the Conference for the fifth time from February 21 to 24, 2008 with the theme "Frontiers of Landscape Architecture". Key note speakers included Craig Kielburger.
2009 Conference
The 2009 Conference was held from February 26 through February 28 at Pennsylvania State University. The conference was held at the Penn Stater, a hotel on the campus, with one evening of social events held at the Days Inn.
Controversy
Alcohol was removed from conference events after the first night. Three free beer or soda coupons were given to the guests, with those 21 and older receiving wrist bands to be allowed to drink. Many minors were found with alcohol, and some guests brought alcohol into the social.
2010 Conference
The 2010 Conference will be held in Las Vegas, Nevada, and will be hosted by the University of Nevada at Las Vegas.
2011 Conference
At the 2009 Conference, Purdue University was unanimously chosen to host as they were the only student group vying for the job.