Claire Humber, FASLA

 
SE Group, Burlington, Vermont
For over three decades, Claire Humber has been at the center of the evolution of the "ski" industry-from single-sport winter recreation to high quality place engagement and year-round enjoyment. By combining systems thinking, physical planning and design, wide-ranging experience, and an abiding commitment to the ski industry, she has guided mountain resorts and recreation areas toward becoming environmentally friendly and financially viable operations in all four seasons. Her work assessing, modeling, planning, and ultimately designing mountain destinations advances understanding of the critical relationship between the design and organization of these landscapes and their ongoing success. As a result of her industry-leading work, landscape architects are now central to the comprehensive planning and design of such resort and recreation developments. Her work extends beyond the United States to Canada, Iceland, Scotland, Scandinavia, Japan, Korea, and China. She is a frequent speaker at the National Ski Areas Association and the Urban Land Institute, among other groups. In addition to transforming an industry, Claire has increased appreciation for and stewardship of mountain environments to sustain local economies. Her work has opened additional opportunities for the public to enjoy and appreciate the outdoors and, ultimately, understand their responsibility in caring for it. Claire strives to reveal the unique physical qualities and character of each place, and to provide a memorable experience for the visitor.