A Legacy of Growth: Scott Cisson Retires After 18 Years at FSU Grounds & Landscaping

08/25/2025

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For more than 18 years, Scott Cisson has served as the Director of Grounds and Landscaping at Florida State University, overseeing the enhancement of outdoor living spaces. His efforts have contributed to a safe, clean, sustainable, and attractive environment for which the University is widely recognized. Scott joined FSU in 2008 after leading the grounds and landscaping team at Arizona State University from 1986 to 2008. Friday, August 29, 2025, marks Scott's final day at Florida State University as he transitions into retirement.

With Scott at the helm, FSU has become a living arboretum where a diverse array of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants are grown and maintained for public engagement, education, and conservation. This is reflective of the complex ecological systems in our state, with a primary emphasis on native north Florida plants, including rare and endangered plants.

“Since his arrival, Scott has implemented landscaping and design improvements that enhanced the visual appeal of the campus grounds. These advancements include upgrading gardens, creating well-maintained pathways, and introducing vibrant plant life that creates an inviting atmosphere. His efforts would have turned the grounds into a visually pleasing environment for students, staff, and visitors," said Joel Van Ravenswaay, Acting AVP for Facilities.

Scott Cisson, eighteen-year director of FSU Facilities Ground & Landscaping

Scott encourages his team to push the boundaries of materials, design, elements, and plant materials that activate spaces on campus. His team has utilized recycled materials, such as limestone boulders from neighboring Wakulla County, to recycled waste wood from pruning and tree removal to mulch campus, and plant trials that are uncommon to this area, such as the Dwarf Poinciana or Pride of Barbados (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) that blanket the campus in garnet and gold blooms through the warm months. He has also incorporated plants often considered too tender for our region into the campus landscape by taking advantage of building positioning, allowing them to grow successfully.

Scott's associates regard him as a true creative with an innovative spirit that seamlessly transfers to the Grounds and Land. He has always had the ability to see the big picture and set clear, achievable goals that align with the University's mission. "His long-term vision has helped guide his team and inspired them to work towards a common objective," Van Ravenswaay said.

Scott's expertise will have a lasting impact on Florida State University's organic landscape. His legacy is evident in the creation of multiple greenspaces and gardens under his tenure, including the 1851 Garden on Jefferson Side, Call Street Berm, Subway Berm, Friendship Garden at Mina Jo Powell Green, Music School Courtyard Garden, Fallen Officer Memorial, Greek Park Gazebo, Stone Building Terraces, Chapman Garden at the Med School, Labyrinth Garden, Hoffman Garden, Stanley Marshall Garden at HCB, Alumni Center Garden, Speicher Tennis Plaza, and the Butterfly Garden at the Wellness Center, to name a few. These spaces will continue to foster a welcoming environment for engagement, encourage environmental stewardship, and enhance the beauty of our historic campus for future generations.