Alumni Pay It Forward at 2024 Scholarship Reception

The 2024 scholarship reception began with current and former engineering Wildcats sharing laughs as they competed to correctly answer a quiz regarding the University of Arizona College of Engineering’s exciting developments, such as the newest undergraduate degree program, computer science and engineering.

“With the support of scholarships backing their efforts, our undergraduates have many opportunities to experience hands-on learning and conduct research with their professors,” said David W. Hahn, the Craig M. Berge Dean of the college. “They graduate well-prepared to find solutions to engineering problems, and we are very proud of their successes.”

Philanthropic scholarships provide essential support to talented students, including those historically underrepresented in engineering. Donors like Travis McCarthy pay it forward to the next generation of Wildcat engineers with gifts of financial aid and perspective gained from industry experience.

McCarthy, a 1998 CAEM graduate, spoke on behalf of the Henry George Mackintosh Foundation. The HGM Foundation was established by the family of McCarthy’s wife, Shannon McCarthy, in honor of Henry and Frances Mackintosh to further their belief in the value of education. The Mackintosh Family Engineering Scholarship is an endowed scholarship that supports civil engineering undergraduates who focus on construction engineering management.

McCarthy said his UA Engineering education set a strong foundation for his career successes. He started at Sundt Construction right after graduation and is still with the company’s transportation group in the role of senior vice president and Southwest regional manager.

The HGM Foundation and McCarthy are key supporters of the construction engineering management undergraduate emphasis in the Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering and Mechanics. The dedicated Wildcat has given back to the CAEM department in more ways than financial, providing essential industry knowledge to students and volunteering at alumni events. He asked the scholarship awardees to consider doing the same.

“Upon graduation, stay connected to the university and the college – maybe initially it’s staying in touch with a professor or doing a class talk,” McCarthy encouraged. “When the time is right, consider giving back financially. Remember the gift you are getting here tonight and look to pay it forward.”