Building a Legacy: The McKissack Sisters and the Enduring Story of McKissack Construction
Deryl and Cheryl McKissack
McKissack & McKissack is an esteemed American construction and engineering firm known for its pioneering role in the industry and its commitment to excellence. The company has a rich legacy spans over a century, dating back to its founding in 1905 by Moses McKissack III. What sets McKissack & McKissack apart is its impressive portfolio of projects and remarkable history of being one of the oldest African-American-owned businesses in the United States.
The story of McKissack & McKissack took a significant turn with the leadership of twin sisters Cheryl McKissack Daniel and Deryl McKissack. The twin sisters are the fourth generation of McKissacks to lead the family business, following in the footsteps of their father, William DeBerry McKissack, and their grandfather, Moses McKissack Jr.
Cheryl McKissack Daniel and Deryl McKissack are both accomplished professionals in their own right, bringing their unique skills and expertise to the company. Cheryl, an architect by training, holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Howard University and a Master of Business Administration from Columbia University. She has been instrumental in expanding McKissack & McKissack's reach and capabilities, overseeing projects that range from historic renovations to large-scale infrastructure developments.
On the other hand, Deryl McKissack is a civil engineer and holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Howard University and a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). With her engineering and construction management background, Deryl has played a vital role in driving innovation and efficiency within the company, ensuring that McKissack remains at the forefront of the industry.
Together, Cheryl and Deryl have continued the legacy of McKissack & McKissack, upholding the values of integrity, excellence, and diversity that have defined the company since its inception. Under their leadership, McKissack & McKissack has expanded its presence across the United States and diversified its portfolio of projects, including educational facilities, healthcare facilities, transportation infrastructure, and more.
The legacy of Cheryl McKissack Daniel and Deryl McKissack is rooted in their professional accomplishments and their commitment to empowering future generations of African American professionals in the construction and engineering fields. Through mentorship programs, educational initiatives, and community outreach efforts, they have worked tirelessly to promote diversity and inclusion within the industry.
In conclusion, the story of McKissack & McKissack is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and family legacy. Cheryl McKissack Daniel and Deryl McKissack have carried on the tradition of excellence established by their ancestors, leaving an indelible mark on the construction and engineering industry in the United States.
Sources:
McKissack & McKissack Official Website:
https://www.mckinc.com/
"Sisters Deryl and Cheryl McKissack Run One of the Nation's Oldest Black-Owned Construction Companies," Black Enterprise: https://www.blackenterprise.com/mckissack-mckissack-construction-black-owned/
"A Civil Rights Story, Through Architecture," New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/19/realestate/mckissack-mckissack.html