This scholarship was established in 2013 by the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. in memory of their former chairman, Joseph R. Vislay.

Joe attended the University of Florida receiving a B.S. degree with honors in Building Construction. He became a prominent general contractor, achieving numerous industry awards. He was the Co-founder of EMJAY Constructors, Inc., 2008 Chairman of the Board for ABC Florida Gulf Coast and 2011 Chairman of ABC of Florida. He also served as an Advisory Board Member of Everglades University. Joe worked from sun up to sun down and always appreciated precious time on his riding lawn mower. He will be forever missed by his beloved wife of 27 years, Cynthia; children Angela , Joseph and Joe