HATTIESBURG – The University of Southern Mississippi’s School of Construction Student Chapter has been named the country’s best by the national Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC).

Approximately 20 of the top construction management programs in the nation competed for the 2006 ABC Student Chapters Excellence Award.

Members of Southern Miss’ student chapter will accept the association’s highest honor during its national convention in Las Vegas on Saturday, March 17. Chapters were judged according to innovation, creativity and community service.

“The win proves the quality of our construction students’ communication skills and their commitment to the community and the university,” said David Marchman, associate director of Southern Miss’ School of Construction.

Some of the award-winning activities this year included hurricane clothing assistance to the citizens of the Gulf Coast, a Christmas food drive, home repair for the elderly and participation in Habitat for Humanity. About 45 Southern Miss students participate in the School of Construction Student Chapter.

Buddy Edens, president of the Mississippi chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors, said he is proud to be associated with Southern Miss’ growing construction program and is impressed with its success in several areas: academics, professional development and outreach with other national programs.

“I am very grateful to the Associated Builders and Contractors members who commit to sharing their time, knowledge and passion for our industry with these students,” Edens said.

Southern Miss’ School of Construction scored yet another victory as its student chapter was one of four to be crowned winners of the association’s third annual student essay competition. The group will present its winning essay, titled “Virtual Reality in Construction Education and Industry,” at the convention.

“This is a great opportunity and experience for these students,” said ABC Director of Careers in Construction Christine Hess. “They will gain research, writing and presentation experience on topics that are pertinent to today’s construction industry. They will also have to defend their presentation by responding to questions from the audience.”