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Jessica Gonzalez
ASLA, WEDG

Landscape Designer & Horticulturist

Growing up in the state of Oregon, Jessica was able to engage with a variety of biodiverse ecosystems including the valley, coast, mountains, forest, and high desert. Experiencing the outdoors was something she always enjoyed and was encouraged to do, especially on her family’s farms located in the valley. Jessica became passionate about horticulture through her involvement in Future Farmers of America and mentorship with local nursery professionals. During her time at Oregon State University, she continued to learn and advance her understanding of the natural environment, which evolved into an important understanding of local ecology, restoration, and design. Her Master of Landscape Architecture program brought about new ideas of resiliency, environmental justice, and community processes that she pursues in her work today. Through various hands-on and educational opportunities, Jessica continues to learn about and engage with Midwest ecology, including her particular interest in Great Lakes ecosystems.

Jessica joined Living Habitats as a landscape designer and horticulturist, bringing 10 years of prior experience in the Oregon nursery industry. Through her studies and intensive work with Landscape for Humanity, Jessica has worked with transitional housing communities, non-profits, and municipalities on design build and community engagement projects in the Pacific Northwest. Jessica brings this research-by-design approach to the Living Habitats team, along with a contagious enthusiasm for ecologically responsive design that is both aesthetic and functional.

“Over the past year and a half, I’ve had the opportunity to build relationships with local and statewide organizations as part of our work within the vibrant Chicago community of Marshall Square. While working on their Hammond Elementary School courtyard project, I had the chance to engage with Hammond students, staff, and Marshall Square community members to help their vision for the courtyard become a reality. I was given the opportunity to work on this project from start to finish, so it holds a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to see the students, staff, and community enjoy the space they envisioned come to life.”

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