University of Florida Elevates Two Landscape Architecture Faculty Members

Published on June 26, 2026

The University of Florida has announced the promotion of two faculty members in its Department of Landscape Architecture, reflecting the institution's commitment to advancing research and education in this critical field. During its meeting on 23rd June 2026, the UF Board of Trustees awarded tenure to Dr. Yi Luo, promoting him to the rank of Associate Professor.

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Dr. Luo's research focuses on the intersection of landscape design, sustainability, and human health. His work emphasizes landscape performance evaluation, sustainability assessment, therapeutic landscapes, microclimate and urban heat dynamics, and stormwater management alongside low-impact development. His scholarship has attracted support from various funding agencies, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Landscape Architecture Foundation, highlighting the significance of his contributions to the field.

In addition to Dr. Luo, Dr. Thomas Hoctor has been promoted to the rank of Research Professor. Dr. Hoctor serves as the Director of the Center for Landscape Conservation Planning at the University of Florida, where he plays a crucial role in scientific initiatives aimed at conservation throughout the state. His leadership is pivotal in programs such as the Florida Wildlife Corridor and the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program.

A middle-aged man with gray hair, wearing a blue checkered button-up shirt, stands indoors in front of a window and beige wall, smiling at the camera.

Dr. Hoctor's expertise lies in GIS applications for identifying conservation priorities and developing strategies to preserve biodiversity and ecosystem services. His research includes focal species habitat modeling, reserve design, and wildlife corridor planning, all aimed at expanding protected lands in response to climate change. His work is essential for developing long-term conservation strategies that sustain ecological integrity amid ongoing pressures from land use change.

These promotions at the University of Florida not only recognize the individual achievements of Dr. Luo and Dr. Hoctor but also underscore the institution's dedication to addressing pressing environmental challenges through innovative landscape architecture research and education.

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