May 2009 - David Oates Receives Distinguished Service Award

David Oates, President of Oates Associates, received the Distinguished Service Award from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville during the May 2009 commencement.

The award is presented to those who have provided outstanding service to the University or region. The University’s Chancellor, Vaughn Vandergrift, nominated Mr. Oates for his continued support of the University and his longstanding service to the community. Over his 30 year career, Mr. Oates has devoted himself to bettering the region by way of the projects he has directed and in the leadership roles he has served.

Under his direction, transportation and building projects have been completed for numerous clients throughout the region. The Illinois Department of Transportation alone has selected the firm for 34 assignments that have extended across the state of Illinois. Projects have totaled over $20 million in fees since 1980. On the SIUE campus, notable projects Mr. Oates has directed include the design of the University’s state-of-the-art Engineering Building and the design of the track and field facility at Korte Stadium, which was the venue for the 1994 U.S. Olympic Festival.

Additionally, Mr. Oates has served in leadership roles in a number of business and community organizations. Most recently he was a national Vice-Chairman of the American Council of Engineering Companies and he currently serves as the Council’s national Transportation Committee Chair. He also serves on the SIUE Foundation Board, having previously held the positions of President and Chairman of the Board.

As the recipient of this honorable award, Mr. Oates was asked to give the commencement address, which he delivered to over 800 graduates. He also gave the commencement address for SIUE’s School of Engineering 15 years prior.