Posted on April 6, 2026 by Sean M. Wood
The Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design has nearly 30 endowed and named chairs and professorships. None were in Construction Science and Management until now.
The Waterman Construction Faculty Fellowship in Construction Science and Management was established by Waterman Construction, a leading firm based in San Antonio. Klesse College faculty member Ibukun Awolusi is the inaugural recipient.
Awolusi is an associate professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, and Construction Management, Division Leader of Construction Science and Management, and Undergraduate Advisor of Record in Construction Science and Management. He is starting his eighth year at UT San Antonio.
“This is huge for us,” Awolusi said. “The fact that this is coming from a distinguished alum of our university is something very huge.”
He said the fellowship has great potential for the growth of the program. “When I think about great universities of the world...I think of their alums and how they have invested in their university,” Awolusi said.
Dr. Arturo Schultz, Director of the School of Civil & Environmental Engineering and Construction Management, said the endowed position is a benefit for the school and for Awolusi. Schultz says the endowments help recognize outstanding faculty and are great retention and recruiting tools. For Awolusi, he now has funding for research assistants, conference registration, professional development and travel.
“It’s a tremendous honor being bestowed on someone who truly deserves it,” Schultz said.
Andrew Waterman, the managing partner and president of Waterman Construction, said an endowed faculty position for construction is, “ridiculously overdue.” The San Antonio native and 2003 graduate of UT San Antonio said supporting a faculty position helps the university continue to produce industry-ready professionals. Waterman said he hopes to see other firms in the in the market inspired to endow similar positions.
"When we construct buildings, their impact is measured over a defined lifespan,” he said. “But investing in education allows us to help shape future leaders and professionals in a way that endures far beyond any single project. Supporting this faculty endowment reflects our long-term commitment to strengthening both the industry and the communities we serve.”
— Sean M. Wood
