KENNESAW, Ga. | Sep 24, 2018

Donations will support scholarships and the development of teaching facilities

In its most successful fundraiser yet, Kennesaw State University’s Department of Construction Management raised more than $167,000 for scholarships and the development of state-of-the-art teaching facilities.

The 17th Annual Industry Advisory Board Fundraiser Gala, held last week at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, drew more than 72 sponsorships from individuals and organizations.

Funds raised this year eclipsed the previous high of $140,000 set in 2017. During the event, construction management students were awarded $14,500 in scholarships.

“We are so very grateful to see this level of support from our industry partners throughout the region,” said Khalid Siddiqi, chair of Kennesaw State’s Department of Construction Management. “Through their generosity, we are able to lessen the financial burden of students who wish to receive a world-class education at KSU. I am thrilled to see how much this event has grown since its inception.”

The gala started from humble beginnings, raising just $7,000 in its first year. Its recent success can be attributed in part to the department’s robust industry advisory board, Siddiqi said.

The board has 42 members – many of whom are donors – and its mission is to ensure students meet the educational and career needs of the industry from an employer’s perspective.

– Travis Highfield

Photos by Ashley Schenck

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 45,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.