Elevations

Fall 2025

A national JE Dunn Construction employee publication

MANAGING EDITOR
Ben Hobbs
EDITOR

Becky Storm

Monica Kiel

On The Level

by: Gordon Lansford

From the CEO

At JE Dunn, Serving Others is a principle we live by, passed down over the past 100 years from leaders like Bill Dunn Sr., who helped shape our company culture to what it is today. From our jobsites to our offices, the work we do is rooted in a deep commitment to our people and our communities. 

This year’s Cornerstone Campaign reflects that commitment in action. Following the success of last year’s Building a Legacy campaign, the Cornerstone Campaign invites employees to shape where and how we give. By nominating nonprofit organizations and selecting a shared focus cause, our people are able to drive meaningful impact in the places they call home. 

Serving others strengthens more than just our communities — it builds connections, pride, and purpose across our company. When we invest in causes that matter to our people, we reinforce what makes JE Dunn different: a culture that values people first. 

Why is serving others important to you?

Stacey Flint
Community Volunteer Award Recipient
West Region
"

Serving others is one of the most powerful ways we can lead. Service strengthens our communities, deepens our empathy, and leaves a legacy that extends far beyond ourselves. I encourage everyone to find a meaningful way to give back. The world needs your kindness.

"
Drew Emerson
Community Volunteer Award Recipient
East Region
"

Giving back to our communities is integral to who we are at JE Dunn. By working toward a better community and better lives for everyone around them, our employees are more fulfilled and happier because their communities are stronger.

"
Laura Gentner
Community Volunteer Award Recipient
South Central Region
"

It is more than an action. It’s how we make small, but meaningful changes. It’s a belief that our lives extend beyond ourselves and are meant to be of service and contribution to the larger whole. You cannot underestimate it. And the energy extended into the world lasts so much longer than any self-fulfillment ever could.

"
Shelby Craig
Community Volunteer Award Recipient
AFG
"

As a former foster youth, I know firsthand how powerful it is when someone shows up for you. Serving others is important because it creates hope, connection, and opportunity, especially for those who feel forgotten. That’s why giving back is such an important part of who I am, it’s a chance to be the person I once needed.

"

Belonging & Marketplace Engagement

By: Zoraya Rowlands and Martell Dyles
Inclusion and Diversity Director and Senior DEI Manager

In an industry dedicated to building spaces that bring people together, it’s important to remember that every structure relies on a solid foundation. At JE Dunn, our success is built on one strengthened by our people — their talent, dedication, and collaboration are the heart behind every project and every achievement. 

1+5 With Lauren Lockwood

Senior Project Manager
Midwest
What is something no one else knows about you?

I am a certified scuba diver and had the opportunity to learn while studying abroad in Australia. Fifteen years later I still remember swimming with sea turtles.

If you could have lunch with anyone, living or deceased, who would it be and why?

Without a doubt it has to be my grandpa Ed, who passed away about 10 years ago. There are so many things today that I enjoy (woodworking, cribbage, golfing (starting to love this one)) and that he loved. Being able to share these passions would be such a blessing to both of us and would take a wonderful relationship to an even deeper level. He would also adore my son, whose middle name honors him.

What was your favorite vacation and why?

My favorite vacation had to be my honeymoon. First off, I dedicated two weeks to it and have never spent that much time away since. If you can swing a two-week vacation, I highly recommend it. Second, we did all the things we loved. We were in the Pacific Northwest and had a combination between roughing it while backpacking in the national parks and being bougie at bed-and-breakfasts. We started in Seattle and ended with Napa. The highlight was camping on Mount Rainier and being able to see the Milky Way and all the stars that you don’t get to see in the city.

What are you currently doing that you really enjoy and why?

I really love spending time with my family. My husband and I are blessed with a wonderful relationship, and we work so well as a team in raising our son, Hank. Hank is 3-and-a-half years old and every day he amazes me with how caring, smart, and loving he is.

What’s your claim to fame?

My chocolate chip cookies. Just ask the Minneapolis office.

Articles

Regional Updates

Throughout our 26 JE Dunn offices, building, giving, and people are at the heart of what we do. Click below to see more of the great things happening throughout our regions.