M Club Hy Popuch Memorial Service Award

Andrea M. Bukacek, Bus Ad ‘07
Racine, Wis.

As a student-athlete on the women’s tennis team, Andrea Bukacek learned right away that she was not only representing herself, but her team, the athletic department and the university, both on and off the court. Twenty years later, she applies that approach to leadership – putting relationships and reputation at the forefront – as the CEO and first female owner of Bukacek Construction Group in Racine.

Andrea credits her experience as a Marquette student-athlete with teaching her how to receive feedback not as criticism, but as a way to improve yourself. This led her to understand that, in order to be her best self, she has to be willing to continuously learn and grow. In her professional life, she works to learn from the different leadership styles and qualities of everyone on her team.

Bukacek Construction is a regional construction manager and general contractor that prides itself on excellence, including highly responsive service, flexibility and value optimization. Similar to Marquette’s mission, their company culture is based on four core values: commitment, character, competence and collaboration.

Andrea recalls the impact of the Jesuit values Marquette taught her, especially cura personalis, caring for the whole person. While academic and athletic success are important, Andrea says she learned that, through those respective avenues, you are developing yourself and your core values as a whole.

Andrea continues to give back to her community, currently serving as co-chair of the capital campaign for the Racine Zoo Animal Hospital and Education Center. The Racine Zoo has served the Racine community for more than 100 years, providing animal education and healthcare, community events and engagement.

Fun Facts:

What is one of your favorite Marquette memories?
When the tennis team traveled to Puerto Rico. Two of my teammates were from there, and we were able to experience home life with them and gain an amazing experience.

Name a Marquette faculty or staff member who had an impact on you, and how.
Tom Ford. Tom’s guidance was instrumental to selecting the right classes and schedule. He was also able to provide me an opportunity to tutor other student-athletes in Spanish.