Board of Directors

2025-26 AALA Board of Directors

See Board Policies and Job Descriptions

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Meet your 2025 AALA Board of Directors

Matt Sloan (PresidentCity of Edmonton 
I've proudly served on the AALA Board for 1 year, bringing a passion for sustainable design and community engagement. This year, I'm particularly excited about the AGM in Edmonton and the walking tours of new projects. When I'm not advocating for the profession, you can find me exploring on my bike (pedal or motor) and snacking on ... well, anything.
Andrea Kennedy (President Elect) Stantec, Calgary
I'm beginning my third year as an AALA Board member and am excited to build on the momentum of the past year—continuing to strengthen the foundation that supports members and amplifies the Association’s long-term impact. I'm passionate about staying active and I'm gearing up for a bike-packing adventure from Canmore to Jasper this month. 

Jason Pfeifer (Treasurer) PDA Studio, Edmonton
 I'm brand new to the AALA Board this year and to the role of Treasurer. I'm also in my second year as Chair of the Publications Committee. I'm excited to contribute and learn on the board, and equally excited about the number and quality of submissions we’ve received to Terrain magazine this year, which we’ll publish this November. Outside of AALA, I'm working hard to grow an independent landscape architecture practice, and I volunteer as a community soccer coach and with my local community league. In my free time, I enjoy walking and biking to Edmonton’s cafes and breweries for conversations with new people and old friends - and gradually replacing my lawn with perennials and food, one strip at a time.


 David Murray (SecretaryCity of Edmonton
 I have been serving the AALA for 1 year on the board, and look forward to serving as this year's Secretary. I'm passionate  about our profession and look forward to contributing to this year's board and the role it has in the upcoming Professional Governance Act. I'm looking forward to meeting new faces at the next social events, and when I'm not chasing chickens, or working in my garden this summer, I hope to be out on the lake in a boat fishing or tubing.
 Will Packolyk (Past President) Al-Terra, Edmonton
I am honored to be entering my third year sitting of the Board of Directors for the AALA.  I am very enthusiastic about place making, durability in design and celebrating our collective contributions to society.  I am a proud father of three girls that keep my heart full and schedule busy!  I look forward to working with the rest of the Board this year and know there is much we will accomplish.

Alison Legault (Southern DirectorEXP, Calgary
I'm excited to be joining the AALA Board for the first time this year as the Southern Alberta Director. I'm looking forward to contributing to the growth of our profession by supporting programs and events throughout Southern Alberta that inspire collaboration and professional development. Between chasing soccer balls and dodging hockey pucks, I’m hoping to catch many of you at some of the great events lined up this year.
   Shanna McKinnon (Northern DirectorPublic City, Edmonton 
This is my first year serving on the AALA Board of Directors, however, I have volunteered on various committees and task forces for the AALA over the years. I am looking forward to connecting with colleagues across Alberta and helping to mold the future of the association. I like to use my downtime to explore new places, both close to home and further abroad.
Derek Franklin (LAT DirectorISL, Edmonton
I've been a member of the AALA for over ten years now and this will be my 2nd year serving as the LAT representative on the board. This year I am excited to help understand how LAT's may be impacted by upcoming PGA changes and looking forward to continuing to work with the other dedicated board members in advocating for the important role LAT's play in our industry. Outside of work most of my time is spent coaching my kids sports teams, golfing, and trying to fit as much camping in as possible during summer months!
Chelsey Schmidtke (Associate DirectorVancouver
It’s been a privilege to serve on the AALA Board since 2021, this year I’m looking forward to supporting the actions outlined in our strategic plan. I have particular interest in climate adaptation and resiliency, and supporting learning that leads to decolonization. Outside of work, I love to spend time by the water and in the garden.

Tamara Marajh (Director at LargeCity of Calgary
 
As a passionate advocate for Landscape Architects, I've proudly represented our profession on various boards and associations, ensuring our voices shape the development of vibrant cities and communities. When I'm not drooling over beautiful public spaces or diving into construction details, you can catch me playing in my steel drum band at festivals or soaking up the sun on a patio. Feel free to say hi and share a cheers with me!
Barb Power (Public DirectorCalgary
I have been serving as the public member on the AALA board for 8 years. I am a volunteer appointed by the Alberta government; my role is to ensure that the AALA is operating in the public interest, as a key part of the Alberta government’s accountability mechanism for professional regulatory organizations. Outside of my board governance interests, I enjoy exploring our mountains and prairies by camping and hiking in the summer and Nordic skiing in the winter.

 

 

All Board Members can be contacted at aala@aala.ab.ca

Staff & Key Volunteers

 

Jim Laidlaw
Registrar
registrar@aala.ab.ca

 

 

 

Dryden Kalesnikoff                         

Office Manager                                               

  industry@aala.ab.ca
 

In Memoriam 

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Todd Reade

 Executive Director & Deputy Registrar (2017-2022)

 

In memory of Todd Reade, who passed away suddenly in September 2022. 

Todds unrivalled knowledge and passion for his work with the AALA will be deeply missed. He was instrumental in streamlining day to day operations of the AALA, and his many years in association governance was a key factor of our associations success over the past few years.

He will be forever remembered as a leader in Landscape Architecture Legislation across North America. 

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