Doug Kowert '60
Doug was initiated into Chi Chapter in 1960 and graduated Purdue University in Civil Engineering in 1963. Using the skills and education acquired at Chi and Purdue, Doug spent 50 plus years working in the construction industry in locations throughout the world. As the CEO of construction companies located throughout the US, the Middle East, London England, and the Caribbean, Doug oversaw a variety of projects including high-rise offices & residences, hospitals, hospitality venues, educational complexes and buildings, athletic facilities, industrial buildings and facilities, retail complexes, laboratories, prisons, heavy civils projects, golf courses, interior build-outs, and single-family residential developments all totaling a present value in excess of $5 billion
As a Director of the International Board of the Associated General Contractors of America, Doug got a taste of politics throughout the world. It did not taste good. Doug was also the sole arbitrator for the settlement of a very large claim against the Saudi government. He later trained with the American Arbitration Association. He learned that arbitration is not for the faint of heart.
The Purdue Kappa Sigma’s exceptionalism has been something that has carried throughout the good and bad times of its existence as one of the oldest chapters in Kappa Sigma and at Purdue University. The life-long connections and shared reminiscences with brothers from various generations is something that cannot be replicated in any other organization. Special events that we all remember like homecoming signs, house dances, grand prix, coops with sororities, study hours, academic mentoring, and the regular sharing of experiences are memories that will last forever.
As a member of the team that raised the funds and rebuilt the Chi Chapter House in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s, Doug began his 25-year involvement in the Chapter House Corporation, Alumni Relations, and Active Chapter operations. During this time, the Chapter has experienced a few ups and downs. However, with the assistance, input, brotherhood, and support from some exceptional vendor/contractors and brothers like Joe Harshman, Lloyd L. Zickert, Bob Sorensen, Charlie Marshall, Steve Springer, Mike Cline, chapter GM’s, Kappa Sigma Headquarters, and so many other alums and active chapter members, Chi Chapter has continued its record of achievements for this latest period in its 140-year history.