Boise State University’s Construction Management Association students received the 2025 Construction Management Skills Award from the Associated General Contractors of America in Florida, recognizing their work on a student-led community project at Highlands Elementary School, according to an April 7 announcement.
The award highlights the importance of hands-on learning and community involvement for college students preparing for careers in construction. The project offered both practical experience and a lasting benefit to local children.
The Boise State team was honored for designing and building a new concrete ball wall at Highlands Elementary, working with the Boise School District and the school’s Parent Teacher Organization. Denise Smith, treasurer of the PTO, said, “Thanks to the generosity of our parent community, we identified a need for more engaging options for our upper-grade students and Boise State’s Construction Management students stepped in to help make that vision a reality. Working with them over the past three years has been an exceptional experience for our school community. We’re incredibly grateful for their partnership and the lasting difference they’ve made for our students.”
Students managed every aspect of the project—from planning through construction—mirroring professional industry standards. Anthony Perrenoud, William H. McMurren Endowed Chair of Construction Management at Boise State University, said, “This is another excellent example of a CMA project benefitting our local community. While receiving national recognition is always appreciated, the most meaningful impact is reflected in the lives of our students, who build life-long relationships through the CMA Student Chapter. These connections are what truly endure, though hopefully the concrete wall will last even longer.”
Student Bella Fleischman added: “As secretary of the Construction Management Association I was able to be involved behind-the-scenes and being part of this wall ball project was an amazing experience…Winning an award for our hard work and impact we’ve made…it’s an opportunity I’ll always be grateful for.”
Smith also said about working with Boise State: “They brought professionalism, dedication and a genuine commitment to seeing this project through — from early planning to helping us navigate city approval…The wall-ball wall has made a tremendous impact at Highlands Elementary creating new opportunities…and it’s something our students will benefit from years to come.”
The completed structure—a 16-foot-long by 10-foot-tall cast-in-place concrete wall—required coordination among university students, administrators and city officials as well as overcoming challenges such as weather delays and permitting requirements.
Looking ahead, organizers say projects like these provide valuable real-world experiences while making positive contributions locally.
