Brian E. Edelman serves as President for Purdue Research Foundation. Established in 1930, the Foundation serves the mission of Purdue University. In doing so, the Foundation manages a nearly $4 billion financial portfolio including endowed funds, annuities and cash. The Foundation accepts gifts; administers trusts; funds scholarships and grants; acquires property; protects Purdue University’s intellectual property; and promotes entrepreneurial activities on behalf of the University.
As President, Edelman is responsible for the Foundation’s finance and investments, real estate transactions, information systems, marketing and communications, human resources, and strategic initiatives. He served as the project director of Back a Boiler – ISA Fund, an income share agreement, or ISA, to help reduce college debt for University students. Back a Boiler was launched in the 16/17 academic year making Purdue the first major research institution to offer ISAs to undergraduate students. Other major U.S.-based higher education institutions are replicating the program with the assistance of Purdue Research Foundation and its partner, Vemo Education.
Other projects include the Purdue Research Park network and a nearly $1 billion Purdue Innovation District to develop about 450 acres on the west side of the Purdue University campus. The long-term community development project will enhance the educational and life experiences of Purdue faculty, staff, students, visitors and area residents.
Previously, Edelman served as Vice President of Corporate Finance and Investment Banking for Eli Lilly and Co. where his responsibilities included the creation and execution of the company’s mergers and acquisitions strategy and the economic and financial analyses of licensing transactions. In fulfilling these responsibilities at Lilly, he gained 12 years of experience in the company’s financial component and 18 years of business development and strategy work during which he closed biotech, animal health, public, private, friendly, and hostile transactions totaling approximately $20 billion.
Edelman earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Wabash College and a Master of Science degree in Finance from Purdue University’s Krannert School of Management. Edelman directly joined Eli Lilly and Co. after graduating from Purdue.