President's Letter: December 2025

Greetings, Maryland Chapter ASLA Members and Partners!

As we approach the end of the year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers and sponsors who continue to go above and beyond for our Chapter. Every initiative we pursue and every event we host — and there are many — is made possible through their dedication, expertise, and support. I am truly grateful to work with such an incredible team!

With the new year on the horizon, I’d like to put forward an open call: as you begin thinking about your goals and resolutions for 2025, I encourage you to consider getting involved with one of Maryland ASLA’s many committees. Our committees are the engine of our Chapter, shaping programs, events, advocacy efforts, and member engagement throughout the year. Your involvement, whether big or small, makes a meaningful impact.

Below you’ll find a full list of our committees along with the volunteers currently leading each one. If you’re interested in learning more or would like to join one or more committees, please reach out to me at president@marylandasla.org. I’d be happy to connect you with the right committee chairs and help you find a role that aligns with your interests.

Advocacy + Awareness

Chair: JoAnn Trach Tongson

Awards

Chair: Zach Brown

Bylaws

Chair: JoAnn Trach Tongson

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Chair: Amina Mohamed

Elections

Chair: Paul Jester

Emerging Professionals

Acting Chair: Michael Pullano

Fellows

Chair: Jack Sullivan

Member Communications

Acting Chair: Michael Pullano

Membership

Chair: Brian Reetz

Professional Development + Climate Action

Chairs: Sarah Trautvetter & Lauren Gray

Scholarship

Chair: Joe Ignatius

Sponsorship

Chair: Ali Salimian

Student Outreach

Chair: Javi Diaz-Ortiz

Lastly, I hope to see many of you at our annual Holiday Party on December 16th at Little Havana in Baltimore, and I thank our event sponsors Division 32, Victor Stanley, and Techo-Bloc for supporting this event!

In Fellowship and Service,

Patrick Whealton