From left: REIS President Justin Thibaut, Frank Suarez of Vulcan Materials Company, REIS Governor Shelton Weeks and Scholarship Chair Bev Larson, Michael Saban of Vulcan, Lisa Sands, Rosie Rodriguez of Vulcan, Lutgert College Dean Chris Westley, Angela Kunkle of FGCU, and Lutgert College Associate Dean Matthew Sheep. PROVIDED

The Real Estate Investment Society (REIS) will be offering 10 additional scholarships to students at Florida Gulf Coast University, thanks to the generosity of Vulcan Materials Company. The firm has donated $25,000 to the REIS Scholarship Foundation, which funds scholarships for outstanding students pursuing degrees in real estate, finance, engineering, and construction management.

The presentation took place at the REIS Jan. 9 luncheon.

The scholarships each provide $2,500 toward tuition and books. These outstanding scholars also receive honorary membership in REIS for one year and may attend meetings on a complimentary basis.

“We welcome outstanding scholars to join us, to learn about the area’s commercial real estate industry, and to develop relationships with members of the business community,” said REIS President Justin Thibaut. “The REIS scholarship programs represent our commitment to our professions and our community. We support student interest in business by providing financial assistance for their higher education and welcoming them to participate in our meetings and educational programs. Our goal is to promote the professionalism of our future business leaders and thereby the economic vitality of our community.”

Vulcan Materials Company is the nation’s largest producer of construction aggregates–primarily crushed stone, sand and gravel–and a major producer of aggregates-based construction materials, including asphalt and ready-mixed concrete. More than half of the materials produced have been used in public works projects, with the remainder utilized in development of housing, schools, healthcare facilities, industrial and commercial projects. The firm has a large presence in Southwest Florida with extensive land holdings and mining operations, primarily in eastern Lee County.

Bev Larson, chair of the REIS scholarship committee, explains that the Paul Sands Memorial – REIS Scholarship is an endowed FGCU scholarship program, funded by REIS Scholarship Foundation, a not-for-profit, registered 501(c)3 corporation. Continuing contributions from REIS and the annual Paul Sands Memorial Slaw Dog Invitational Golf Tournament have increased and sustained the fund.

Information on contributing to the REIS scholarship program is available at the REIS web site or Bev Larson, 239-281-1290. Criteria, school contacts, and other information on the program are also available on the REIS web site.