Pittsburgh, PA – May 2025
Highlander Waterproofing & Foundation Repair is honored to stand among the top supporters of the Jim Roddey Leadership Awards, a powerful new event celebrating the legacy of one of Allegheny County’s most influential public servants—Jim Roddey.
Held on May 21 atop the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, this inaugural celebration will recognize two trailblazing local leaders and honor Roddey’s lasting contributions to the region.
Honoring a Legacy of Leadership and Unity
Jim Roddey, who passed away in March 2024 at the age of 91, was elected as Allegheny County’s first executive in 1999. A visionary and unifier, Roddey played a key role in transitioning the county from a three-person commissioner system to its current executive-led form of government. Despite being a Republican in a largely Democratic region, he was widely respected for his collaborative approach and unwavering focus on community improvement.
In 2023, before his passing, Roddey personally selected two individuals to receive the first-ever awards created in his name:
Laura Ellsworth, Partner-in-Charge of Global Community Service Initiatives at Jones Day
Mark Nordenberg, Former Chancellor of the University of Pittsburgh
Celebrating True Public Servants
Laura Ellsworth is known not only for her work in high-stakes litigation but also as the co-founder of the Eradicate Hate Global Summit. A respected board member across several Pittsburgh institutions—including FNB Corporation and the Heinz History Center—Ellsworth credits Roddey as a mentor and guiding force.
“Jim’s inspiring ability to bring people together with both intellect and gentle humor was a unique gift,” Ellsworth said. “I am genuinely humbled that he would consider me one of the inaugural recipients of this award.”
Mark Nordenberg’s career is similarly tied to Roddey’s leadership. In 1996, Roddey chaired the committee that named Nordenberg Chancellor of the University of Pittsburgh, a role he held until 2014. Reflecting on the award, Nordenberg shared:
“In a sense, anything I’ve done in my career I owe to Jim… knowing this would have pleased him means the world to me.”
Highlander Waterproofing: Investing in Regional Growth
At Highlander Waterproofing, we’re proud to support events that honor service, integrity, and forward-thinking leadership. As a company committed to protecting and improving homes across Western Pennsylvania, we see firsthand the value of strong, values-driven leadership in our communities.
Supporting the Jim Roddey Leadership Awards is more than an honor—it’s a reflection of our belief that strong foundations, whether in homes or in public service, make all the difference.
We extend our congratulations to Laura Ellsworth and Mark Nordenberg and salute the memory of Jim Roddey, whose legacy continues to shape Pittsburgh’s future for the better.
About Highlander Waterproofing & Foundation Repair
Highlander Waterproofing provides trusted basement waterproofing, foundation repair, and structural solutions to homeowners throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New York. With decades of experience and a passion for protecting what matters most, our team delivers long-lasting results with unmatched customer care.
To learn more about our services or to schedule a free inspection, visitwww.highlanderwaterproofing.com.
Giulio and Jennifer Bevilacqua are the dedicated and passionate owners of Highlander Waterproofing, a trusted name in basement waterproofing and foundation repair. With a commitment to protecting homes and ensuring the safety and well-being of families, Giulio and Jennifer have built Highlander Waterproofing into a premier service provider in the region. Their hands-on approach, combined with years of industry expertise, has helped them earn a stellar reputation for delivering reliable and effective waterproofing solutions.
The Bevilacquas pride themselves on offering personalized service, using proven techniques, and employing a team of highly trained professionals who share their dedication to quality workmanship. As a family-owned and operated business, Giulio and Jennifer emphasize integrity, transparency, and a genuine concern for their clients’ needs. They believe in building lasting relationships with their customers by ensuring each project is completed to the highest standards. Highlander Waterproofing continues to thrive under their leadership, offering innovative solutions and exceptional customer service that homeowners can depend on.