Prof. Sean Kelly Receives the OALA 'David Erb Memorial Award'

The Ontario Association of Landscape Architects ‘David Erb Memorial Award’ was presented to Professor Sean Kelly on Friday, March 28, 2014 at the OALA Conference and AGM at the Sheraton Hamilton Hotel, Hamilton.  The award named after David Erb who was an outstanding volunteer in furthering the goals of OALA and his example set a truly high standard. This prestigious award is considered the best way to acknowledge the one outstanding OALA member each year whose volunteer contributions over a number of years have made a real difference.

Sean Kelly is an Associate Professor in Landscape Architecture at the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development, University of Guelph.  Sean has consistently had a strong and positive influence on students in the two professional landscape architecture programs. 

While building his firm, Stempski Kelly Associates Inc. with his wife Stasia, Sean joined OALA in 1997 and became active in OALA activities and events.  He has always been a strong proponent of the Association and its goals.

Sean’s involvement with the OALA has grown over the years, and has taken a definite course in supporting, guiding and encouraging prospective landscape architects. He has chosen to volunteer with OALA in positions where he can be most effective, and his efforts have been a natural extension of his work as an educator at the University. He has become a mentor for many students. Sean is always available to offer assistance and guidance – even after the reports are completed, the exams are over, and the meetings are finished.

The list of Sean’s contributions with the OALA is impressive, and even more so when considering his involvement with both the University and with his private practice. As with all volunteerism, it is the spirit of giving selflessly to aid in the prosperity of others. Sean captures that spirit and passes it on with pretty much everything he does. Collectively, his contributions have made OALA stronger and have significantly influenced the next generation of OALA members.

Congratulations to Sean for his hard work on behalf of the profession and the school!

Sean Kelly receives David Erb Memorial Award from OALA President, Joanne Moran.
Photo credit:  Henry Kortekaas.