PEOPLE - Alumni Stories
Conversation with Ladarion Hardison, MURP 2026
How was your Rowan experience?
Ladarion: Upon completing my undergraduate degree in 2024, I was in search of a concrete way to apply my education in environmental science to promote sustainable development and protect the public health of American communities. I found that Rowan University had everything I was looking for (and more!). The Urban and Regional Planning master’s program equipped me with a constellation of lessons and experiences that unveiled the inseparability of the environment and planning, cementing my resolve to progress further in this field. The COGS in Geospatial Science and Methods synergized seamlessly with my studies and further augmented my analytical and research capabilities. As a result, I was able to gain hands-on experience that ranged from assisting with stormwater analysis to exploring planning implications regarding nuclear energy with ROWEC.
What was your experience with the Community Planning + Visualization Lab?
Ladarion: My collaboration with Dr. Meenar and the Community Planning + Visualization Lab was the greatest highlight of my experience at Rowan University. I joined the lab in 2024 where I first worked on a project tied to the update of the New Jersey State Development and Redevelopment Plan. From there, I had the privilege to assist in an assortment of research opportunities, such as preparing a grant to address food insecurity in South Jersey communities, utilizing GIS to analyze heavy metal concentrations in stormwater, and even co-authoring a paper centered on Camden citizens’ perception of air quality. The lessons and knowledge I gained as a member of this lab will live with me forever, and I am truly honored to have received Dr. Meenar’s astounding mentorship and to have worked alongside such a passionate and dedicated individual.
Where do you see yourself in the near future?
Ladarion: Thanks to the numerous quality experiences I gained during my time at Rowan University and as a member of the lab, I will be working as a Planner for the City of Branson, Missouri. This is an absolute dream come true and I could not have accomplished it without the support of my peers, instructors, and Dr. Meenar. With such a huge milestone achieved, my sights are now set on pursuing AICP and GISP certifications.​
What interests/hobbies do you have?
Ladarion: Music is my passion and I enjoy rollerskating as well. I recently purchased a trumpet, and I am also excited to pick up the French Horn again now that I’ve graduated and have more free time!
