COLUMBIA, MD — Harkins announces the newest addition to its board of directors, Jayson Williams. Williams is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Mayson-Dixon Companies, a minority-owned family of companies that was founded in 2015 as MD Strategic Consulting, a public affairs firm that utilizes campaign-tactics to tell client stories to achieve their missions.

He has since started complimentary businesses such as Mayson-Dixon Properties & Development, Modern Builders, and Modern Suppliers, which combined with MD Strategic Consulting created the first turnkey community development firm that engages in neighborhoods, constructs residential and commercial projects, solves supply chain issues, manages properties of various sizes, and brings investment partners into underserved communities.

“I am extremely honored and excited to join Harkins’ Board of Directors,” Williams said. “When asked to join, I found myself taking a deeper dive into the company’s history and was impressed by their Employee Stock Ownership Plan, which is truly unique and one of the most successful models in the country. Harkins’ commitment to its employees matches their dedication to the communities they build in, ultimately driving their achievements as a company.”

In today’s environment, general contractors face the ever-increasing complexities of complying with minority participation goals; however, maximizing MBE participation on projects has and always will be Harkins’ company policy. The company places a 15 percent goal on all projects, regardless of the minimum requirement. Harkins provides opportunities for small business firms to participate in future work through various outreach efforts to develop relationships with qualified MBE contractors. Williams' board representation will help to improve small business efforts for the company through his experience in public service and as a minority contractor, with key relationships established in the industry.

“We couldn’t be happier having Jayson as the newest edition to the board," says Harkins President & CEO Gary Garofalo. “He offers a wealth of knowledge through his public service initiatives and minority contracting experience. We look forward to our partnership in the coming years.”

Harkins has been mentoring his construction division, Modern Builders, in Passive House building over the last eight months. Modern Builders has since been awarded Baltimore City’s first two Passive House projects and Harkins continues to serve as a mentor to support Williams' company throughout the process.

“Often when people ask me how we can invest more in minority and women-owned businesses, my answer is simple: Give us a seat at the table and a real opportunity to succeed,” Williams said. “I look forward to being an active participant in their board and being a voice for increasing investment in minority, women-owned, and small businesses, growing my partnership with Harkins and the industry at-large.”