Virginia Builders Foundation

About Us

The Virginia Builders Foundation was established by two Virginia Tech alumni with a shared belief in giving back to the program that helped shape their careers—the Myers-Lawson School of Construction. What began as a small, alumni-driven effort has since grown into a committed group of five industry professionals united by a passion for strengthening the future of construction.


The Virginia Builders Foundation exists to support students, faculty, and programs at the Myers-Lawson School of Construction by raising funds that enhance educational opportunities, advance innovation, and connect academic learning with real-world industry experience. As construction professionals, we understand the importance of investing in the next generation of builders, leaders, and problem-solvers.


Our board members bring diverse experience from across the construction industry, but share a common goal: to ensure Myers-Lawson students have the resources, mentorship, and opportunities needed to succeed in an evolving industry. Through alumni engagement, industry partnerships, and charitable giving, the Virginia Builders Foundation is proud to support Virginia Tech’s mission of Ut Prosim—That I May Serve.

Board of Directors

John Barksdale

Chairman of the Board

Virginia Tech, Class of 2011  
B.S. in Building Construction,
M.S. in Real Estate

Georgetown University,
Class of 2018

M.S. in Real Estate
 Development

VP, land at Emerson Companies

Jeff Shifflett

Virginia Tech, Class of 2011 B.S. in Building Construction, Minor in Real Estate

Director of Construction at Newcastle Development Group

Constance Brinkley

University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Class of 2026
B.S. in Business Administration

Assistant Project Manager at Koury Corporation

Nathan Tegarden

Virginia Tech, Class of 2020
B.S. in Building Construction, Minor in Real Estate

Project Manager at R. W. Murray Co.

Sam Sovoia

Virginia Tech, Class of 2015 B.S. in Construction Engineering and Management

Area Superintendent at Hensel Phelps

Our Mission

The mission of the Virginia Builders Foundation is to support and advance the Myers-Lawson School of Construction at Virginia Tech by providing financial resources, fostering industry connections, and investing in the education and development of future construction leaders.

Thank you!

for joining us in this important mission!

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