Richard Wien

B.S. 1967
Founder of two startups, retired manager of strategic business development
Outstanding Alumni Award (2015)

During my senior year in high school, I worked on a research project in chemistry labs in Wetherill. Although I considered another option, Purdue was an obvious choice. My freshman year I washed glassware for Professor Dale Margerum. This led to NSF undergrad research for the rest of my undergrad time and an understanding that Purdue was a place where I found that I could do impactful research. Purdue was the base for what has been a very successful career.

Purdue and its chemistry department are recognized as one of the best universities and departments in the world. I have been fortunate to fund the Richard and Judith Wien professor of chemistry (Dr. Mei) as well as part of a group that transformed the Leighty Commons lobby of Wetherill.