Hope Leeson

Hope Leeson is a Lecturer in the School of History, Philosophy, and Social Sciences at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), serving as adjunct faculty since 2012. She teaches botany and plant ecology through immersive, sensory-based field experiences emphasizing direct observation of plants.

Her educational background includes a BA in Visual Arts from Brown University with a painting concentration.

Leeson's research centers on wild plant communities across northeastern and southwestern North America, focusing on rare species documentation, invasive species management, and wetland ecosystem dynamics. She investigates plants' critical roles in soil health, atmospheric processes, and climate regulation, with strong emphasis on conservation and ecological restoration.

Scientific recognition includes the RISD Color Lab Fellowship supporting her exploration of native plant dyes, presented in Colors of the Land.

Leeson actively collaborates with environmental organizations and research collectives including the Below and Above Collective on floating wetland projects and RISD LDAR faculty on Moshassuck River floodplain restoration, presenting findings at the 2024 Society for Ecological Restoration conference.