Donor focus: Donald Kawal

Donald Kawal has been involved with the UNM School of Engineering for the last 20 years, and he and his spouse, Christie, are supporters of the Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering’s new Media Lab, which officially opened in November. The new lab offers a modern and collaborative study, learning and presentation space for students.

Don was president of Klinger Constructors Inc., a $50 million-a-year commercial/industrial construction company for 25 years, until his retirement in 2007. Prior to Klinger, Don served as an estimator, project engineer and manager in the construction industry. He was also an instructor and assistant professor, teaching construction and architectural engineering courses.

He is a co-author of the textbook Critical Path Method and has been involved with over 1 billion dollars of commercial/industrial building construction. He has a B.S. and M.S. in building construction from Michigan State University and a Ph.D. in engineering valuation with a minor in statistics from Iowa State University.

How did you choose to give back to UNM?
I have been involved with the UNM Civil Engineering department for over 20 years. My wife, Christie, and I are donors.

Why did you choose to give back to UNM?
In my career I enjoyed construction of buildings. Construction people are a lot of fun. But interacting with students is also rewarding. I believe in investing in education to provide opportunities.

What do you hope your gift will accomplish?
Our investment betters our community by developing future engineers and leaders.

Why should others consider giving back to UNM?
There is a payback particularly when students return and describe their new positions. I have been challenged by M.S. and Ph.D. candidates. Helping them grow helps me to grow.