Purdue alumnus named Purdue Research Foundation’s vice president and chief facilities officer

Richard J. Michal
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WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Purdue Research Foundation President Brian Edelman announced Monday (Feb. 19) the appointment of Richard J. Michal as vice president and chief facilities officer of the foundation.

Michal, who majored in construction engineering and management at Purdue University, will oversee the planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of the foundation’s five-site Purdue Research Park statewide network, the $1 billion Discovery Park District development on the west side of the Purdue campus and the foundation’s real estate transactions.

“With the Discovery Park District, the park network and in its support of Purdue’s physical growth, Purdue Research Foundation is undertaking unprecedented physical growth,” Edelman said. “In addition to being a Boilermaker, Rich brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this critical position and is a proven leader in this sector. We are confident that he will be the lead driver in the many diverse projects that we are endeavoring.”

Michal began his work at the foundation Monday (Feb. 19).

“I am excited to return to Purdue and become part of the dynamic changes taking place, including Discovery Park District,” Michal said. “As a student of architectural and urban planning, I realize this district is designed to become a vital part of the whole community that will enhance the lives of people for generations to come. It is a challenge and opportunity that I am proud to help lead.”

Michal most recently served as the associate vice president and chief facilities officer at Butler University, where he managed the university’s 295-acre campus and 2.5 million square feet of facilities. During his time at Butler, he oversaw the planning, design and construction of over $300 million in capital renewal projects including the $36.2 million renovation of Hinkle Fieldhouse and two $40 million, 630-bed student housing projects. In addition, he managed a $23 million mixed use parking garage with 16,000 square feet of retail, a $50 million new School of Business building and a planned $100 million science facility addition and renovation for Butler.

He previously served as an adjunct lecturer at the University of Arizona’s College of Architecture, principal in charge and project development director for Adolfson and Peterson Construction; project manager for Pulte Home Corp.; and project engineer for Geupel DeMars Construction.

Michal earned an MBA from the Indiana University Kelly School of Business, and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in architecture from the University of Arizona’s College of Architecture. He is a licensed professional engineer in Indiana and a LEED accredited professional. 

Writer: Cynthia Sequin, 765-588-3340, casequin@prf.org

Source: Brian Edelman, 765-588-3826, beedelman@prf.org