April 23, 1999
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. -- Dick Walbaum, Purdue's senior associate athletic director for promotions, marketing and development, has announced plans for his retirement from full-time employment, effective January 1, 2000, culminating 35 years on staff.
"Dick's impact over the past 15 years has helped athletics remain in the black and grow!" said Morgan Burke, Purdue's athletic director. "His creative leadership has resulted in the resources necessary to move Purdue's athletic department toward its goals of national prominence. On behalf of the entire athletic department, I thank him for his efforts and successes."
Walbaum has directed two of the department's critical revenue steams through tremendous growth periods. Since his arrival in athletics in 1984, the John Purdue Club has increased from 3,500 members to nearly 7,000 today. The John Purdue Club's $5.3 million in annual contributions pay for Purdue's athletic scholarships and academic support costs. Additionally, Purdue's athletic marketing revenues have grown to over $2.5 million last year.
"My entire tenure with Purdue has been incredibly rewarding, culminating with the promotions, marketing and development responsibilities," commented Walbaum. "Striving to match the needs of the athletic department with those of our donors, corporate partners and fans made each day challenging and exciting."
Walbaum will remain on staff full-time through the end of the year, although his responsibilities will change around July 1. "While we wish Dick and his wife Molly much enjoyment as they begin this new phase of their lives, I'm thrilled Dick will assume the leadership role in the Ross-Ade Stadium renovation project during 2000," said Burke. Additionally, Walbaum will assist with his successor's transition and handle special projects for the department. Other changes in staff assignments will be announced later.
Walbaum joined the athletic department in 1984 as an assistant athletic director and John Purdue Club director. He served as John Purdue Club director until 1993 and was promoted to associate athletic director in 1996. The move to senior associate was made last year. Walbaum has been at Purdue for 35 years, serving as assistant intramural director at the Recreational Gymnasium (1964-67) and spending 17 years in the Krannert School of Management (1967-84) as assistant dean.
He is a native of Springfield, Ill., and a graduate of the University of Illinois.