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Rick Duke/UWF
Founding Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at UWF
Builder of the “the best university-based economic development organization in the country.” – Innovation Associates, 2005
I am an accomplished Executive Leader with a strong record of success and national reputation as an expert in Economic Development, University/Public/Private Sector Partnerships and Healthcare/Eldercare opportunities with the three Higher Education institutions. As a highly effective, original and visionary thinker, I mentor and lead teams creating and implementing innovative economic development, industry and public health to grow organizations and jobs, increase efficiency, enhance quality, build communities and improve life.
I have raised millions in funds for new and existing programs by identifying potential partners and donors; soliciting, cultivating and nurturing relationships; developing and writing award-winning grant and proposal packages; and effectively marketing organizations.
I direct large, multimillion organizations by leading, guiding, mentoring and motivating a large, more than 100-person workforce. I am highly sought after as an expert speaker for local, regional and national venues on Economic Development and Aging Services issues.
I was invited to accompany President Carter on an international economic development mission, based on recognized expertise. I have been noted for exceptional intellectual depth and strong analytical, research and writing skills with the maturity and collaborative expertise to gain trust and confidence of internal and external constituents.
Specialties: business development, community consulting, fundraising, university partnerships, teaching, selling, facilitating, project management, grants, budgeting, leading people, mentoring, healthcare/eldercare industry, economic development
The Center, based in the College of Business, has the potential to reach students from all academic disciplines across the campus. The foundational roles creativity, critical thinking, team-based problem-solving and the innovation process play in complementing traditional entrepreneurial academics will be maximized. The Center’s donor has two priorities-increase enrollment and student retention at UWF. Some co-curricular activities which are both campus and community serving will be pursued.
