Tuesday, June 24, 2025
By: Kyle Niblett
University of Florida College of Design, Construction and Planning (DCP) graduates David Brandon (BCN ’81) and Beth Lowry (BSBC ‘95) were both elected into the National Academy of Construction (NAC), the organization announced earlier this month. Academy membership honors those who have made outstanding contributions to the effectiveness of the construction industry over a period of several years and who are recognized as an industry leader by his or her peers.
Brandon was described as a “dedicated construction professional committed to advancing the construction industry and client community through exemplary service and impactful leadership.” The UF Board of Trustee member is a fourth generation Floridian who in 1983 founded Brandon Construction Company of Palm Harbor. He currently serves as president and CEO of the company.
As a state licensed General Contractor for more than four decades, Brandon has been responsible for 1,000-plus projects including high-rise condominiums, office buildings, retail establishments, educational facilities, and medical facilities throughout the state. Luxury homes built by Brandon Construction are among the finest, most storm resistant and energy-efficient in the industry.
Lowry was described as “a transformative executive leader who has led major construction projects, while actively engaging in public service initiatives.” She is currently president of Holder Construction Company and started her career with them in 1994 as an intern before joining them full-time in 1995. Holder Construction is a $4.5 billion construction services firm based in Atlanta, Georgia since 1960. She is the first female in Holder’s history to serve as president.
In her current role, Lowry provides executive leadership over Holder’s business functions that support the company’s construction operations. Having served on Holder’s senior leadership team since 2006, the Gator graduate also provides vision and strategy for the company’s corporate responsibility, community engagement, and philanthropy.
The duo joins other members of the DCP family in the NAC, including recent inductees Dean Chimay Anumba (2020), Jonathan Antevy (2021), Daniel E. Whiteman (2022), Robert F. Cox (2023), Bruno-Elias Ramos (2024) and Raymond Issa (2024). Members have demonstrated high personal integrity and a concern for the health of the entire industry through sharing their knowledge and leadership. Both Brandon and Lowry will be formally inducted during the NAC’s Annual Meeting on Oct. 30, 2025, in Colorado Springs, Colorado.