ENR MidAtlantic's 2014 Legacy Award: John R. Lawson II
Emphasis on Education
Perhaps the pinnacle of Lawson's commitment to construction's future generations is Virginia Tech's Myers-Lawson School of Construction, which he co-founded with Virginia Tech fraternity brother A. Ross Myers, CEO of American Infrastructure Inc., Worcester, Pa.
The school aims to enhance students' business acumen and entrepreneurial and leadership skills through courses from the university's architecture, engineering and business schools.
Although Lawson helped launch the school, he hasn't imposed his views on it. "Obviously, kick-starting something the way John has makes a difference in the path of any new program," says Yvan J. Beliveau, head of Virginia Tech's building construction department. "But while John will share what he's seeing in the industry and offer ideas, he leaves it up to us to make decisions, which is rare in a benefactor to a university."
Beliveau adds, "He believes the program should be built around what we want, not what he wants. He's involved, but he wants it to evolve naturally."
Lawson feels that understanding and embracing change is critical to the growth of his company and the construction industry. "When I was growing up, people did things the way they'd always been done," he says. "Sometimes that works, but it doesn't let you take full advantage of what's out there."
Lawson says he's also a believer that "education should never stop." In that spirit, the company established its Learning and Development Center. The facility, which hosts employees as well as industry groups, is used for teaching construction-related topics as well as providing opportunities for personal development. Classes range from personal finance and gardening tips to industry-specific topics, such as BIM or green construction.
Beyond being a construction company leader, Lawson also dedicates much of his energy to community and philanthropic causes. For example, he has volunteered his time to benefit Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters in Norfolk and a $42-million fundraising campaign at Christopher Newport University. He also chairs the board of the Fort Monroe Authority, which is overseeing the transition of a historic former Army installation to other uses.
Lawson is the past rector of the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors and past chairman of the Mariners' Museum in Newport News and of the Virginia Economic Development Council. In addition, he co-chaired a $1-billion campaign for Virginia Tech.
He says, "You can't experience true success and happiness without giving back to your community."
