CEO James Murphy has been named to the Trustees of Arizona State University, a 37-member group of citizen-leaders whose interests and experiences represent the breadth of ASU.
Created by ASU President Michael Crow in 2013, the Trustees of Arizona State University serve as advocates, advisors, and investors committed to ensuring the success of the University. The key role of the Trustees is to support ASU’s strategic vision, specifically the “New American University” model.
“Under the leadership of Dr. Michael Crow, ASU continues to set the bar for innovation and excellence in education and setting the vision for the community. As a proud Sun Devil alumni, educator and supporter, it is truly an honor to serve the University as a Trustee and contribute to the future direction of ASU,” said Murphy.
Sun Devil Success Story
A two-time graduate of ASU with both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Construction Management, Murphy has built a 25-year career at Willmeng. He purchased the company in 2006 and has since led it to award-winning success as a nearly $1 Billion firm. Willmeng, a 100% employee-owned company excels in both public and private projects, named ENR General Contractor of the Year in 2023, listed as the Top Industrial builders in the nation and holds multiple honors as NAIOP Arizona’s General Contractor of the Year and TI Contractor of the Year.
Staying Connected to the Alumni Community
Murphy’s dedication to the construction industry and the community is matched by his enduring commitment to Arizona State University. A Distinguished Alumni inductee in the ASU Academy of Distinguished Alumni for the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, he also serves as an associate faculty member in the Del E. Webb School of Construction, teaching Leadership Fundamentals. As a Trustee of ASU, Murphy has redefined the relationship between higher education learning and the business community.
Murphy is a consistent supporter of the university’s Founders Day celebration, a Space Summit sponsor, and a long-time advocate for ASU student development and hiring. Under his leadership, nearly 25 percent of Willmeng’s workforce are proud Sun Devil alumni, and the firm has completed many construction projects on ASU campuses, with several active projects currently under construction.
