This fund was established in 2011 by Paul and Mary Jane Halyard to support teaching, research, technology enhancements and service activities in the University of Florida Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

Paul graduated from the University of Florida in 1958 with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. In 1977, he started Peninsula Engineering, a firm specializing in HVAC, plumbing, fire protection and electrical engineering for buildings. Paul’s most extensive project was the Royal Palace of Brunei for Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. He later sold the company to two of its employees in 1998. Paul launched Peninsula Forensic Engineering, Inc. in 1983. The firm handles HVAC issues related to building envelope performance and negative pressure in buildings. In 1999, Paul started another firm, Property Condition Assessment Inc., which provides construction consulting services to lenders and owners. Property Condition Assessment has clients throughout Florida. Paul sold the company in 2012.

Paul is a charter member of the National Academy of Forensic Engineers. He is also a member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-conditioning Engineers and the Florida Engineering Society. The Florida Engineering Society named Paul Engineer of the Year in 1998, and awarded him the Career Achievement Award in 2001. Paul received the Outstanding Alumnus Award from the UF Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering in 2011.

Paul and Mary Jane have three children.