The David S. Honda Construction Management Technology Endowment would help fund scholarship, faculty development and/or other activities beneficial to the program housed in the Department of Civil Engineering and Applied Mechanics in the College of Engineering and Computer Science.

"David Honda has been a true friend to this college and, in particular, to this program," said S.T. Mau, dean of the college. "His ideas served as an inspiration for its creation and this endowment serves as a legacy of his commitment to our students and faculty that it will continue to grow and play a vital role in the community, just as David himself has done."

Cal State Northridge launched the Construction Management Technology program last year to serve as a bridge between the art of engineering and the practice of construction. The two-year program is taught by licensed engineers with experience in construction.

Students enrolled in the program gain an expertise in construction and engineering that allows them to interact with architects, engineers and contractors. They also develop the communication skills to tackle construction issues and prevent project crises, and management skills to monitor and control the performance of projects for efficient and timely completion.

"We've created a model of civic entrepreneurship for the CMT program and I hope that someday the recipients of this program understand that someone gave them a chance just as I was once given a chance," Honda said. "Leadership is demonstrated by action, and leadership is also a gift."

Honda is president of D.S. Honda Construction, Inc., which specializes in building high-rise business and medical offices. His designs are seen in buildings around Los Angeles, including the Directors Guild of America offices and the Special Olympics Archery Range complexes in Rancho Park and Woodley Park. He has held leadership positions in the Valley Economic Development Center, United Chambers of Commerce, Valley Economic Alliance, Rotary Club, Rebuild LA, and Mid Valley Chamber of Commerce as well as in several other organizations.

Honda has had a long relationship with Cal State Northridge, having sat on its Foundation Board of Directors for eight years and served as chair from 2000-2002. He has also served as an advisor to the deans of the College of Business, the College of Engineering and Computer Science and the College of Health and Human Development. He currently serves on the industrial advisory board of the CMT program.

Stephen Gadomski, chair of the civil engineering and applied mechanics department, called Honda "a key supporter" of the CMT program.

"He is always there, be it for an industrial advisory board meeting, a committee meeting, a meeting with potential CMT students at a community college or a meeting with CMT students," he said. "He is as responsible as anyone else for the creation and growth of the CMT program."

The College of Engineering and Computer Science at Northridge is home to several nationally recognized programs where students gain valuable hands-on experience working alongside faculty members and industry professionals on cutting-edge research. Most recently, the college is celebrating a $20 million renovation of its facilities, which feature 50 state-of-the-art teaching and research laboratories that offer hands-on experiences for students.