The endowment will be integrated with the already existing Department of Civil Engineering Scholarship, the purpose of which is to provide access to higher education for Arkansas high school students seeking a career in civil engineering. The Department of Civil Engineering scholarship is awarded annually, with the number and size of scholarships determined by the selection committee. The U of A Civil Engineering program is ranked annually by US News and World Report.

Taylor cites the educational foundation and career guidance he received at the U of A as the reason he is able to give back and help provide the same foundation for future civil engineers.

“The business development and experiences over the past 54 years since graduating from the University of Arkansas have allowed me, in addition to the commercial activities of my company, to be very involved in various community activities such as facility development and church developments related to several non-profit and public service entities,” Taylor said. “I found these contributions fulfilling and realized that my endeavors in work, business, church and community would not have been possible without the degree I earned from the University of Arkansas The opportunities I have experienced contributing to community organizations is what has inspired me to give back whenever possible, to help pursue a degree in civil engineering for students in the future.”

After graduating from the U of A, the Clarksville native began his five-decade career working in the construction and engineering department for Exxon Company’s Southeast Marketing Region, USA. -United. Taylor would later return to Arkansas in the 1970s, becoming Walmart’s senior vice president of engineering and construction. Since 1980, Taylor has operated his own construction and business development business. Taylor was inducted into the Chi Epsilon, the national honorary civil engineering fraternity, while on the Hill, and is still a member.

About the Department of Civil Engineering: The Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Arkansas was established in 1897 when the College of Engineering clarified the separation of civil and mechanical engineering degrees. The department maintains accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) and ranks in the top 10% of civil engineering schools nationwide according to Best Engineering Schools. The department earned $2.7 million in fellowships in fiscal year 2020, while our graduates earn an average starting salary of $68,000. To learn more about the Department of Civil Engineering, visit our website.