Professional Achievement Award

Mathew R. Dougherty, Eng ’00
Elmhurst, Ill.

Mat Dougherty has worked at McShane Construction since graduating from Marquette in 2000, demonstrating a refreshing dedication and determination in today’s workplace. His hard work and strong leadership throughout the years has been rewarded – Mat worked his way up from entry-level project engineer to the role of president in 2021.

Mat oversees McShane Construction’s nation-wide construction activities from its headquarters office in Rosemont, Illinois, supported by its five regional offices. He is responsible for identifying business expansion opportunities and providing ongoing strategic planning to support further growth.

Mat enjoys having a platform to challenge himself and others to be their best selves and rewarding them for doing so. He also finds fulfillment in leading an organization that has strong values, focuses on relationships, creates an environment where everyone’s voices matters, and appreciates diverse perspectives.

As a first-generation college student, Mat thought Marquette was out of his reach given the financial commitment necessary to attend. However, the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) provided Mat with the support and scholarship that made his Marquette education accessible.

Mat’s transformational Marquette experience drives him to give back to the next generation, both personally and professionally. McShane Construction partners with an organization called Youth Guidance in Chicago that provides mentorship for high potential students. McShane Construction provides internships to graduates of their program to expose them to career opportunities within the construction industry. Mat also gives back to Marquette by serving on advisory boards, the E-Lead Program and Marquette Mentors.

What is one of your favorite Marquette memories?

During junior year, my roommate Dermot Sheedy and I decided to start a Thanksgiving tradition. It was a simple potluck Thanksgiving gathering of our friends at Marquette. This tradition continued for twenty years, and the guest list expanded to spouses, children and even a few non-Marquette alumni. Recently, we’ve transitioned to a summer event as the holidays have gotten a bit too hectic; nonetheless, we are all there and the tradition continues. It is a date we all look forward to every year.

Name a Marquette faculty or staff member who had an impact on you, and how.

While at Marquette, I would often attend Sunday evening mass at the Union Chapel with Fr. Naus. I was moved by the way he could offer the Word while connecting with the students. He was able to meet people where they were with no pretense. Though I had gone to Catholic mass my entire life, this was an entirely different experience for me, which I enjoyed and looked forward to.