Park Pride is thrilled to announce a new addition to our team, Nick Voravong! Joining as a Park Designer, Nick will work with Director of Park Visioning Andrew White to provide free, professional park design assistance to local community groups through our Park Visioning program.
Nick grew to love greenspace and the best ways to design them during his time in the Landscape Architecture program at the University of Georgia. Since graduating, he’s spent around eight years working on projects across various sectors — from urban parks like Walk of Fame Park in Nashville to institutional design at campuses around Georgia to gardens in the high-end residential world. When Nick’s not working, he’s in the kitchen or on the grill perfecting whatever recipe he’s obsessed with at the moment.
Continue reading to get to know Nick in his own words!
What does the “power of parks” mean to you?
A well-designed and maintained park can enrich the lives of an entire community — whether it’s through managing environmental concerns or providing a space for folks to get outside and enjoy some sunshine.
Why are parks an important part of the community?
Parks provide a space where everyone can and should be welcome to enjoy the many benefits of the outdoors. They also provide a space for us to connect with our family, friends, and neighbors.
What are you most excited about regarding your new role?
Engaging with the community to help them get the most out of the parks they love so much.
How do you hope to empower communities to engage and make a difference in their neighborhood parks?
I want to take my technical skills and help craft their ideas into actionable plans through collaboration and a little hard work.
What’s your favorite park memory?
My family occasionally goes on hiking trips in North Georgia. Overconfidence led to trying one of the more difficult hikes. We barely made it a third of the way through before turning back. One day, we’ll go back and conquer the hike at Cloudland Canyon State Park.
Favorite Atlanta park (and why)?
Grant Park with its gorgeous rolling hills and ample tree cover provides plenty of opportunities for both active and passive activities.
Help us welcome Nick to the team! Email him at nick@parkpride.org.