George L. Kirkland (BSCE’72, ME’74), an alumnus of the Department of Civil & Coastal Engineering, recently passed away at the age of 72. Kirkland received a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 1972 and a master’s in engineering in 1974, both from the University of Florida.  

Kirkland’s philanthropic endeavors were vital to the success of our students and faculty. In 2012, Kirkland established a fund to provide scholarships and fellowships to undergraduate and graduate students in engineering. In 2015, Kirkland established the first endowed faculty professorship position with a dedication to leadership education at the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering. Through the $1 million gift, with Chevron donating 25% and the remainder gifted from the George L. and Joy E. Kirkland Fund, Kirkland was able to support nationally recognized faculty members who are leaders in the field of engineering. 

He devoted 40 years to Chevron Corporation, starting immediately after he graduated as a design and construction engineer and retiring as the vice chairman. Under his leadership Chevron’s Upstream business segment became a leader in safety and financial performance. Kirkland was honored by UF as a Distinguished Alumnus in 2014. 
To view his full obituary, visit The Ledger.