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Celebrating Two Distinguished Emeritus Appointments in PSLA

Dr. Sullivan and Dr. Everts

Image Credit: Edwin Remsberg

October 2, 2026

We are pleased to share two wonderful announcements celebrating the outstanding careers and lasting contributions of Dr. Jack Sullivan and Dr. Kate Everts, both of whom have been recognized with emeritus appointments by the University of Maryland.

A licensed Landscape Architect in Maryland, Dr. Sullivan served as a UMD faculty member for 31 years. He joined the Department of Natural Resources and Landscape Architecture in 1994, was promoted to Associate Professor in 2000, and remained a dedicated member of the faculty until his retirement in 2025. His distinguished career includes recognition as a Fellow of the American Academy in Rome, the American Society of Landscape Architects, and the Royal Society of Arts.

Among his many accomplishments, Dr. Sullivan was instrumental in establishing the University's Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) program. He initiated and guided the program through approval, accreditation, and early recruitment efforts, helping create a strong foundation for graduate landscape architecture education at Maryland. As an educator and mentor, he taught numerous courses, advised 18 MLA theses, and led student projects that resulted in the design and construction of several notable public spaces across Maryland and the region including, Chesapeake Beach (MD) Veterans Memorial Park (2001-2003), North Gate Park in College Park (2002-2004), the Garden of Remembrance and Reflection at University Chapel (2005-2007), the Green Road Healing Garden at Walter Reed (2011-2016), and Mount Rainier (MD) Memorial Park (2017-2020); all were constructed.  His students have been recognized at the Philadelphia AIA Urban Design Student Competition (2012 and 2014) and the ULI-Gerald Hines Urban Design Competition (2011-2014). His influence on generations of students and the profession is both profound and enduring.

Even beyond his formal teaching responsibilities, Dr. Sullivan maintained an impressive record of scholarship, creative activity, and professional practice. His extensive service to the University, professional organizations, and community partners continues today through leadership and advisory roles with multiple organizations dedicated to environmental stewardship, public spaces, and community development.

Throughout her career, Dr. Everts was an extraordinary colleague, mentor, scientist, and advocate for agriculture. Her contributions to plant pathology have had a lasting impact on both the scientific community and Maryland's vegetable farming industry. Through her research, outreach, and dedication to solving real-world agricultural challenges, she improved disease management practices and supported growers across the region. Dr. Everts was an invaluable asset to our department and the broader agricultural community. Her expertise, professionalism, and commitment to serving stakeholders helped strengthen the reputation and impact of our programs. While we miss her daily presence, we are proud that she will continue to be affiliated with the department and the University through this distinguished honor.

Emeritus status is a recognition of sustained excellence and significant contributions to the University community. Both Dr. Sullivan and Dr. Everts have left an indelible mark on our department through their scholarship, leadership, service, and commitment to student success.