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Out of all of the structures and concepts I have helped bring to life throughout my decades-long construction career, what has always mattered the most to me is how the work affects the people living in those communities.

I am profoundly humbled and overjoyed to be the recipient of the Clayton Chamber of Commerce 2023 Pillars in the Community award. I had an excellent time connecting with attendees at the luncheon yesterday, which was presented by Midwest Regional Bank at the Ritz Carlton in St. Louis. This honor could not have been earned alone and represents the outpouring of love and dedication that our Clayco team and partner companies have infused into every project we develop.

Although my wife Jane and I split our time between St. Louis, Chicago, and our Rosebud Ranch ranch in Colorado, St. Louis will always hold a special place in my heart. I was raised in Bridgeton, Missouri, and during my youth, my passion for construction and building beyond was ignited. Because of this and so much more, investing in the advancement of St. Louis communities has been a lifelong journey of mine. I am proud that this commitment has made such a positive impact.

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My favorite moments are when people come together to celebrate our awesome communities and discuss how to enhance them. The Clayton Chamber of Commerce (CCC) allowed bright minds to gather and envision new ways to evolve and occupy diverse and inclusive spaces. Since its establishment in 1952, the CCC has been instrumental in assisting local businesses in discovering new prospects both within St. Louis and broader markets.

I would like to thank the event sponsors, Clayco, Aboussie & Associates, Busey Bank, Centene Corporation, Clark-Fox Family Foundation, Commerce Bank, Curtis, Heinz, Garrett, & O’Keefe P.C., Gershman Commercial Real Estate, Greater St. Louis INC., Husch Blackwell LLP, Simmons Bank, and Washington University in St. Louis, for helping make this event possible.

I am grateful to be ranked among some of the best civic leaders, educators, and organizations who put people over profits. We must never stop working to make our neighborhoods happier and healthier places to be. With past honorees on our side like the CEO of Greater St. Louis, Inc. Jason Hall, the ownership group MLS4THELOU, and even my great friend and Build-A-Bear Workshop founder Maxine Clark, we can make the most innovative dreams a widespread reality. This award is a testament to the strength of societal bonds and the shared vision for a better tomorrow.

It is with a renewed sense of purpose that I accept this honor and cherish the chance to continue building communities that thrive on compassion and empathy.