David Quirk '84
Champions of Giving: David Quirk '84
Meet the Donor
A proud member of the Class of 1984, David Quirk credits his Austin Prep education with giving him the confidence, discipline, and faith that have guided him for more than 40 years in the business world. He is the Founder and CEO of Quirk Construction, a company he began as a student at Austin Prep with one borrowed lawnmower and a dream. What started as a small landscaping venture has since grown into a multimillion-dollar construction firm.
David was among the first New Englanders to earn the distinction of Certified Field Builder from the American Sports Builders Association. He and his wife, Laura, have three daughters and, in his leisure time, David enjoys fly fishing, skiing, and private aviation.
The Inspiration to Give
Today, David is a respected business leader and a dedicated benefactor whose support strengthens the School that helped shape his path. When David reconnected with Austin Prep decades after graduation, he was inspired by how much the School had evolved — and how steadfastly its mission had endured. He credits Head of School Dr. James Hickey with rekindling his enthusiasm for Austin Prep: “Jim changed the trajectory of Austin Prep and made it a top North Shore school. And I know the school will continue to lead thanks to dedicated staff and the commitment of the Board of Trustees.”
David’s philosophy on giving is rooted in gratitude: “If God has blessed you even a little bit, you give back a little bit. And if you can give a little more, it makes you feel even better.” Over the years, he has contributed generously to capital campaigns, the annual fund, the golf tournament, and other initiatives — always with humility. “I’m just happy knowing that my donations to Austin Prep help the school in some way — whether it’s buying new team uniforms, upgrading the dining hall, improving infrastructure, or providing bonuses for teachers. It’s just something I want to do and I trust Austin Prep to use the money however it sees best.”
From Foundation to Formation: Building for Generations
Quirk Construction specializes in both artificial and organic grass fields, parks, and playgrounds, and has partnered with Austin Prep on some of the school’s most visible campus transformations.
In 2015 Quirk Construction completed the renovation of the upper stadium which included a turf field, a new track, lighting, bleachers, a press box, and a new amenities building.
In 2020, Quirk Construction completed construction of the lower field complex which includes a multipurpose turf field, natural grass practice area, six tennis courts, a batting cage, press box, bleachers, two bullpens, and amenities building.
Most recently, Quirk Construction expanded parking adding about 100 spaces to campus. Renovating the softball field is another initiative the School will undertake in the next few years and David is eager to help with that project, too.
Some of Austin Prep's most prominent campus facilities, including the lower field athletic complex (foreground) and the upper stadium (background) were built or renovated by David Quirk's '84 Quirk Construction.
Why Giving Matters
David’s story is a testament to perseverance, faith, and the power of community. Though academics didn’t come easily to David, Austin Prep teachers like Augustinian Friar Father Arthur Johnson, O.S.A., Mr. Larry Rybicki, Mr. Bob Hennessey, and Mr. Tom Enright believed in him when he needed it most.
“Those teachers were my guardrails,” he recalls. “They kept me focused, gave me confidence, and taught me to believe I could make something of myself.” From painting curbs on campus during summer break to building stadiums decades later, David’s journey has come full circle. His generosity is both an expression of gratitude and an act of faith — a way of giving back to the community that first believed in him.
Become a Champion of Giving
The article above is part of our Champions of Giving series, which highlights the individuals and families whose generosity transforms student lives and strengthens the Austin Prep experience. You too can be a Champion of Giving by supporting our students through annual giving, memorial scholarships, or campaign contributions. Your gift helps students learn boldly, lead with purpose, and serve with compassion — creating a lasting impact for generations to come.
Austin Prep Fund
The Austin Prep Fund strengthens every part of school life, providing vital annual support for academics, arts, athletics, and student programs. Each gift empowers teachers, enhances learning spaces, and expands opportunities for students to grow in faith, knowledge, and leadership.
