Joe Kresl Bio
Joe Kresl R.L.A.,
Registered Landscape Architect and Owner/President
Joe earned a Bachelors of Science degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1977 and a Bachelors of Science degree in Biology and Geography in 1971 from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. He has worked in the industry since 1975.
As owner of Hawks, Joe’s vision is to consistently provide the best landscape services and customer experience in Southeast Wisconsin. As winner of numerous landscape design awards, Joe has many notable projects to his credit such as the re-design of Alverno College Campus, the multi-level patio at North Hills Country Club, the Reiman Publications Campus, and numerous residential estates throughout the metro Milwaukee area. He is currently working on the enrichment yard for the new Gorilla Exhibit at the Milwaukee County Zoo, scheduled to open in Spring 2015.
Joe is a strong civic leader and community supporter, active on many boards and charitable organizations. His leadership includes the Rotary Club of Milwaukee, executive board member of the Zoological Society of Milwaukee, member of the President’s Advisory Council for Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin, past president of West Suburban Chamber of Commerce, and president elect of the YMCA of Greater Wisconsin. Since 1997 he has been the Sculpture Garden sponsor for Lakefront Festival of Art and participates as a member of the President’s Circle of the Milwaukee Art Museum. He and his wife Jennifer chaired Bal du Lac in 2014 and Zoo Ball in 2010.
In 2013, Joe and Jennifer received the Zoological Society’s highest award, the Emu Egg for demonstrating consistent meritorious service and exceptional contributions and commitment to the Zoo. In 2008 they received the Leontideus rosalia award and the Elephus maximus award in 2005. Additional honors and awards include the Small Business Community Award for the Wauwatosa Chamber of Commerce as well as the Past Presidents’ Club Award for Outstanding Service, the Business Journal’s Ovation Award for Leadership, the Milwaukee Art Museum’s Friends of Art Corporate Friend of the Year Award, as well as numerous landscape architecture and design awards from the Wisconsin Landscape Federation throughout his career.
Originally from Oak Brook, Illinois Joe grew up in a rural setting and was fascinated by the outdoors. His family, being avid gardeners, sparked his interest in plants at a young age. That interest carries through in his life today. In his free time, Joe enjoys gardening, boating, traveling and spending quality time with his wife and two children.