2026 Alumni Merit Award
Nancy C. Juneau
Nancy Juneau (BSED ’82) is a powerhouse leader whose involvement and dedication to student success has made her a dynamic partner to the University. She serves as a trustee of the University of Georgia Foundation and a board member of the UGA Real Estate Foundation. Nancy also contributes her expertise as an advisory board member for the University System of Georgia Innovation and Entrepreneurial Strategies initiative and as a board member for the Georgia Independent College Association (GICA).
A prolific public speaker, Nancy frequently shares insights on panels, at conferences and with local business groups, such as UGA’s Terry College of Business, the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and the Engineering News-Record Groundbreaking Women in Construction Conference. She is equally committed to mentoring students and alumni in a variety of industries to help them advance both personally and professionally.
Nancy’s leadership has earned her recognition as one of the Most Influential Women in Georgia Engineering by Engineering Georgia Magazine for several years. She was also named one of Atlanta’s Most Admired CEOs by the Atlanta Business Chronicle and received the Women of Distinction Award from the March of Dimes in 2018.
In 1997, Nancy, and her husband, Les, co-founded Juneau Construction Company. Headquartered in Atlanta with offices in Miami and Tampa, the company is one of the fastest-growing construction firms in the Southeast. With more than 200 employees, Juneau Construction ranked number two on Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Top Women-Owned Firms list in 2023 and 2025.
Juneau Construction has been instrumental in shaping UGA’s campus, contributing to major projects such as the renovation of the Russell Hall residence hall and the construction of Rutherford Hall and Building 1516 Residence Hall. The company has been a dedicated partner to the College of Engineering since its inception, supporting students through guest lectures, career fairs, student organizations and participation as a Corporate Partner and Employer of the Day.
The Juneaus’ generosity has touched every corner of UGA’s campus. They have made annual contributions to every UGA school and college, including the Juneau Construction Professorship in Civil Engineering; Delta Hall in Washington, DC; Georgia Women Give; and the creation of several Georgia Commitment Scholarships. Nancy’s passion for supporting students and strengthening the University community will continue to shape UGA’s future for generations to come.
“Nancy’s been an incredible partner and supporter at UGA. She’s generously given her time, her expertise, and her philanthropic support for key initiatives at the University.”
- Stephan Durham, Ph.D., P.E., Assistant Dean for Student Success and Outreach & Juneau Construction Company Professor in Civil Engineering


