Ribbon Cut on Major Lab Renovation

For alumnus Dennis Murphy (BS, Civil Engineering, ’94), the concrete laboratory is what made his education come alive. Like many Wildcats, the CEO of Hayden Homes points to his outstanding faculty and the University’s commitment to project-based learning as the keys to his success.

“It’s an honor to give back,” said Murphy who, along with the Concrete Industry Management (CIM) Patrons, donated more than $1 million to support the facilities, equipment, and engineering program.

The patrons formed 10 years ago to established the first CIM program in the western United States in the College of Engineering, Computer Science, and Construction Management. In addition to CIM majors, students from civil engineering and sustainable manufacturing are benefiting from new equipment and expanded work spaces that allow multiple groups to use the lab at one time.

The April 20 ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Murphy, many members of the CIM Patrons, university leaders, and students who showed off the tangible results that philanthropy is playing in their education.