Sandy has been a Landscape Architect (LA) and shareholder on the OCBA team for the past thirty years and President for six. After getting her degree at Kansas State University, Sandy started at an architectural firm in Kansas then worked at an LA firm in Southern California before landing at OCBA. Sandy’s favorite part about her job is her coworkers! She mentioned, “Everyone has unique skills and abilities and is willing to help wherever needed. They bring so much expertise to our projects - I credit them with our success!”

When she’s not leading the team, you can find her volunteering in the community, working on her garden, and finding driving routes that don't include interstates.

Rachel is an Associate on the OCBA team and has been with the firm for the past twenty years. She started in the Architectural Engineering industry and quickly realized she wanted a job that offered more creative project options for Landscape Architects. A Michigan State University graduate, Rachel enjoys working with other team members to collaborate on fun and innovative projects.

If you’re interested in joining the Landscape Architecture industry, Rachel’s advice is to get connected to your community. She says, “become involved in your community through volunteering on municipal boards and commissions to learn what the current issues/concerns are around you and whether solving those issues interest you. Landscape architecture is a very community-oriented field.”

For the past six years, Katie has been a Landscape Architect on the OCBA team. Her interest in the Landscape Architecture (LA) industry began in eighth grade when she researched careers for a school project. After completing dual degrees in Art History and Art Education, Katie realized her true passion was in the LA industry, so she went on to earn a Master of Landscape Architecture degree from Ball State University in 2012.

Katie’s favorite part about working at OCBA is the people and the culture. She loves working on projects for the public that all people can enjoy, specifically projects that require a blend of creativity and practicality.

Deborah is a Landscape Architect and has been with OCBA since 2020. After graduating with a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Ball State University, she took a position in the Grand Rapids office and has worked on design projects in both Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo.

She loves landscape architecture because of the creative problem-solving for every unique project. Since working in the industry, Deborah has viewed her role “as an opportunity to steward and celebrate natural resources by shaping spaces that are accessible to the public.”

Samantha joined OCBA in October 2022 as a Landscape Designer with previous experience in residential design. She graduated from Ball State University with a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture degree and a minor in Strategic Communications in 2020 and is now supporting projects in both Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. In addition to project work, Samantha manages OCBA’s social media accounts.

Samantha has a passion for pollinators — especially bees — and is excited to be a part of planning for a more abundant future.