Volunteer Awards
Volunteer of the Year
Katie O'Connor of DRMP, Inc. was recognized as the 2025 DBIA Florida Region Volunteer of the Year.
Since 2022, Katie O’Connor has served as our Project Awards Chair with exceptional dedication and professionalism. Her attention to detail, unwavering reliability, and effective leadership ensure that every nomination is thoughtfully reviewed, every winner is meaningfully recognized, and every aspect of the process runs seamlessly.
Even while navigating the challenges of rescheduled award programs due to multiple hurricanes, Katie has remained steadfast, approaching each obstacle with resilience and a consistently positive attitude. Her commitment behind the scenes has elevated the integrity and success of our awards program, making her truly deserving of this recognition.
Rising Star Award
Christina’s journey with DBIA began just two years ago as a volunteer with the Southwest Chapter, where she quickly made an impact by helping deliver the chapter’s first successful Owners’ Roundtable. Even after relocating to Tampa, she remained actively engaged and committed to the organization.
Now stepping into a leadership role with the Gulf Coast Chapter, Christina continues to make her mark—most notably through her work organizing events that support and connect young professionals. Her initiative, enthusiasm, and dedication make her a standout emerging leader.
Fostering Collaboration Award
Debbie Daughterty, PE, Assoc. DBIA with Gainesville Region Utilities was recognized for consistently putting the principles of collaboration and partnership into action.
Debbie is a valued Board member whose influence extends far beyond her role, particularly through her leadership in expanding owner engagement and shaping conference content. She has led the Owners Luncheon and played a key role in developing meaningful programming. Her energy and leadership have made a lasting impact on both the conference and the advancement of design-build.
Ensuring Access Award
Scott Churilla, JD, FDBIA of HDR accepts the Ensuring Access Award.
This award honors a leader who expands the reach of design-build by sharing knowledge. Scott has dedicated his time to this mission by helping Owners, public agencies and professionals understand how design-build drives better outcomes.
Through his work speaking at conferences, leading workshops, mentoring teams, and contributing to the DBIA College of Fellows, Scott has consistently advanced education and collaboration across the industry.
Building the Future Award
DBIA looks to support the industry in attracting the next generation of design and construction professionals. Pat McGriff of Lane Construction was recognized with this award.
For several years Pat McGriff has played an integral role in Purdue's senior design-build capstone course. This course helps to bridge the gap between classroom education and real world practice. He guides students through thr same collaborative challenges that design-builders face on a daily basis, and his efforts are helping to develop graduates who are industry-ready from day one.
Chapter of the Year
The DBIA Florida Region’s Central Chapter has been named Chapter of the Year in recognition of its outstanding growth, engagement, and industry impact. Over the past year, the chapter has successfully expanded participation across all sectors—bringing together Owners, architects, engineers, and contractors through a dynamic mix of educational programs, networking events, and community outreach. These efforts have created meaningful opportunities for professionals at every stage of their careers to connect, learn, and contribute.
Since 2024, the chapter has been led by Erik Anderson of Wharton-Smith, whose leadership has helped drive its continued success and momentum.
