Sam Ellison, chairman of EWI Construction, was selected as the recipient of the 2016 Tampa Bay Ethics Award by the University of Tampa Sykes College of Business. The Tampa Bay Ethics Award celebrates integrity and virtue by recognizing outstanding individuals in business, professional services, or government. Recipients of the award consistently exemplify high moral qualities and standards in their everyday life.
On October 7, 2016, Ellison accepted his award at a breakfast in one of the very buildings he constructed, the Vaughn Center. He was introduced by several members of the community, most notably by his son Casey Ellison, CEO of EWI Construction. Casey held back heartfelt tears as he expressed how wonderful of a role model his father had been not only to him and his brother, but also to his grandchildren.
“The key components to lessons he has taught me are the following: trust, love & respect for your relationships.” Casey went on to explain how his father has exemplified these traits by doing business “on a handshake” and showing strength and compassion in raising three children. He told a funny fishing story before presenting his father.
During his speech, Sam Ellison said, “The center of ethics award is presented to an individual who demonstrates the integrity, virtue and character in their everyday professional and personal activities. To be selected based on that criteria makes it even more special to me. I’ll always place the priority of keeping my word, treating others with respect, and holding myself accountable for those same traits.”
EWI Construction built several prominent University of Tampa buildings including Straz Hall and Brevard Hall. Sam Ellison has supported several local charities such as The American Cancer Society and Boy Scouts of America. He has served as chairman for the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce and was president of the University Club of Tampa.
From all of us at #TeamElevate…congratulations, Sam!!
Listen to Casey and Sam Ellison’s full speeches at the link below.
https://www.facebook.com/Elevateinc/videos/1121314481286755/
