LHB Chief Executive Officer Bill Bennett received the University of Minnesota Duluth's Swenson College of Science and Engineering Recognition Award at UMD's Engineering/Industry Banquet on Oct. 22.
Bennett was selected for the award by Dr. James P. Riehl, dean of the college. The award is in recognition of outstanding contributions that bring excellence and distinction to UMD's engineering programs.
"Bill has been so helpful in our efforts to bring Civil Engineering to UMD. He has been a consistent supporter of our engineering scholarship program, and I especially appreciate the contributions he makes on the college and department advisory boards. His perspective on the skills that graduating engineers should bring to the workplace has been very important in our program development," Riehl said.
Bennett has helped to review the engineering curriculums for master and undergraduate programs at UMD through his involvement on both the Swenson College External Advisory Board and the Civil Engineering Department Industrial Advisory Board. The primary function of the advisory board is to review the compatibility of UMD's programs with current and potential needs and practices within the industry so students are prepared to enter the work force, or continue their professional education. He has also served as chairman of the Industrial Advisory Board for UMD's Civil Engineering Department since 2008. The Industrial Advisory Board helps guide UMD in its efforts to receive accreditation for its Civil Engineering program.
Bennett has also supported LHB donating to the department's Engineering Scholarship program for 15 years, providing student internships and having staff teach courses for the Civil Engineering Department.
