ASCE Foundation

Kathy J. Caldwell, P.E., F.SEI, F. ASCE, Pres.11.ASCE had the distinct honor of serving as the President of ASCE, but many do not know that she is currently a member of the ASCE Foundation’s Council of Trustees, and the James Laurie Visionary Circle. While enrolled in a drafting program in high school, Kathy’s interest in civil engineering grew. That, in combination with her good visual and spatial skills, led her to graduate in 1985 from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with her B.S. in Civil Engineering. And, for thirty years, Kathy has called ASCE “family.” She stated, “I can’t imagine not being an ASCE member. It has given me a network of friends, as well as technical support. The value of ASCE is well above what I pay in dues.” Kathy, along with her husband (also a civil engineer), Ronald A. “Ron” Cook, Ph.D., P.E., F.SEI, M.ASCE, owns Caldwell Cook and Associates in Gainesville, Florida.

The Gift

Since 1996, Kathy has been a strong supporter of the ASCE Foundation. However, in 2010, she and Ron took on a life-long pledge, and joined the James Laurie Visionary Circle, to become one of our most generous annual supporters. When asked why she made this decision, she commented, “It’s not about me, and my name on a list. It’s about inspiring others to give as well.” As a Foundation ambassador, Kathy enjoys speaking about the programs that the ASCE Foundation supports, her favorite being the ExCEEd Teaching Workshop. Elaborating about her support for the Foundation’s efforts, she stated, “Every dollar the Foundation raises will be used to advance the profession, and it’s a ripple effect. These contributions help more people than you can begin to imagine.” Looking down the road, Kathy hopes to see ASCE and the ASCE Foundation grow hand-in-hand, and become a global organization, known for supporting all the good things civil engineers accomplish world-wide. Learn more about the James Laurie Visionary Circle, named for the first President of ASCE.