Charles E. Gavin III, 1959 Auburn graduate in textile management, spoke at the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering on Saturday Sept. 3 and helped break ground on The Carol Ann and Charles R. Gavin III Engineering Research Laboratory for renovations.
Gavin said his late wife, Carol Ann, was a driving force in his efforts to make this research laboratory renovation possible.
“The groundbreaking today for the Gavin Engineering Research Lab was Carol Ann’s dream for me,” Gavin said. “My hope is that each of you will join us in making this dream come true for her.”
He is proud that Auburn has a devoted Board of Trustees, Gavin said.
“Their vision is focused on students’ success,” Gavin said.
Michael A. DeMaioribus, vice president pro tempore, said Gavin’s support of Auburn academics, facilities and athletics shows his deep love for the university.
“We’re celebrating a new beginning for one of the most iconic buildings on Auburn’s campus,” DeMaioribus said. “This building…will serve as a physical reminder of, and a very fitting tribute [to Carol Ann].”
Christoper B. Roberts, dean of engineering, said Gavin was the catalyst for this project.
"It's an iconic building that was finished in 1921," Roberts said. "It's really going to be a beautiful facility."
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