This fund was established by Carol A. and J. Stephen Powell, Jr., and their children in 2002 for the purpose of supporting teaching, research and programs in the Powell Center for Construction and Environment.

The Powell Center for Construction and Environment is named in honor of the Powell Family, whose generosity provided funding for setting up the center to advance research and scholarship on sustainability in the building environment. Upon graduating from the University of Florida in 1953 with a Building Construction degree, Steve Powell and his brother, Robert, became partners in the family business, and until recently, he was the president of the Powell Brothers, Inc., a construction company. The company built bridges for the Florida East Coast Railroad and along the Alligator Alley Highway, as well as a bridge from Nassau to Paradise Island in the Bahamas. One prominent success of Steve’s efforts has been in the aiding of the development of Broward County and the Port Everglades seaport.

During the Fall 2004 Commencement Ceremony, Steve was honored as a University of Florida Distinguished Alumnus for his exceptional professional and personal accomplishments. Steve and Carol have also been generous supporters of the university, the College of Design, Construction and Planning and the Rinker School.