The Davis Memorial Foundation, a key supporter of construction education since 1997, has announced plans to expand its focus on the roofing industry; the move is designed to enhance its contributions to the roofing and construction sectors in the Western United States.

Alongside the Western States Roofing Contractors Association's Western Roofing Expo, the Davis Memorial Foundation raised over $110,000 in funding for its scholarship program. With that success, the foundation's Board of Trustees voted to increase the number of scholarships it grants each year from 10 to 15, with each scholarship valued at $5,000.

"Our goal is to continue to keep expanding our reach as our fundraising efforts also continue to grow," said Davis Memorial Foundation Board of Trustees member Chuck Chapman of Tecta America, Phoenix, Ariz.  

Chapman added that he believes the $5,000 scholarship remains the ideal amount to be given per student, and the foundation has no plans to change that to accommodate more students, according to a Nov. 6 news release announcing the change. 

The Davis Memorial Foundation will also offer grants to high schools for participation in the annual SkillsUSA Conference, which offers competition on commercial roofing. Schools can apply for up to $2,500; two grants are available.

Additionally, the Davis Memorial Foundation announced leadership changes at the end of 2024. Trustees Bill Baley and Dennis Ryan will retire at the end of the calendar year. 

The Davis Memorial Foundation said in a statement that Ryan and Baley have been “pivotal to the Foundation's growth and development over the last few years, and the Foundation would not be where it is today without their support.”  Christian Madsen and Travis Nelson will assume their seats when the board reconvenes in 2025.

The Davis Memorial Foundation was founded in 1997 to honor Larry and Mary Davis, who died in a 1995 airplane accident. Larry was a prominent figure in the roofing industry and served on multiple association boards, including the Western States Roofing Contractors Association.

The Foundation awards annual scholarships to individuals pursuing education, focusing on trade schools and degrees related to the construction industry. Employees, spouses, and children of roofing industry professionals are encouraged to apply.

For more information, visit wsrca.com.