Deni Ruggeri

Deni Ruggeri is an Associate Professor in Plant Science & Landscape Architecture at the University of Maryland, College Park, and Director of the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture program. He holds a Ph.D. from UC Berkeley and teaches at institutions including Cornell and the University of Oregon. His research focuses on landscape democracy, participatory design, and urban agriculture, emphasizing co-creation processes for equitable spatial justice. He leads the Environmental Design Research Association as Executive Director.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Landscape Architecture, UC Berkeley (2009)
• Master of Landscape Architecture & City Planning, Cornell University (2001)
• Laurea in Architettura, Politecnico di Milano (1995)

Research Interests: Dr. Ruggeri explores how democratic processes in landscape design can address environmental justice and community well-being. His work spans urban agriculture in public spaces, participatory action research, and the role of place attachment in community resilience. Recent projects include co-creating agroecological trails in Italy and analyzing Northern European urban agriculture policies.

Leadership & Impact: As EDRA Executive Director, he promotes evidence-based design practices. His book Urban Agriculture in Public Space (2024) synthesizes global strategies for equitable food systems. He has advised on over 20 community-led landscape projects in Europe and North America.

Teaching & Innovation: Pioneers immersive digital pedagogy for landscape democracy, blending virtual collaboration with hands-on design studios. Trains students in participatory methodologies through transnational design studios and photovoice techniques.