Get to know me
Julie Rigrish is the Regional Director for the Purdue Center for Regional Development (PCRD) and Director of Southeast Indiana Office of Engagement. Julie previously directed a Small Business Development program while regionally promoting PCRD resources. Julie presently promotes Purdue University programs and resources which advance community development, workforce development, entrepreneurship and small business throughout Indiana.
Julie has co-lead development of the Hometown Business Preservation Initiative (HBPI), the Rural Opportunity Zone Initiative (ROZI), and the Essential Digital Employability Skills programs. She has contributed work in Economic Gardening, Digital Ready for Business, Work Ready, and Remote Work Certificate programs as well as transportation and housing studies.
Julie attended Indiana University with studies in Education, earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Management from Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU), an MBA from IWU, Graduate Certificate in Human Resource from Purdue University and earned certifications in Coaching, Lending and Insurance, Finance, Strategic Planning, and an Economic Gardening Professional Certification as Strategic Research Team – Team Leader. Julie is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Psychology.
Prior to joining Purdue, Julie was in management in the finance industry with expertise in lending, business development, marketing, entrepreneurship, training and coaching & development. Julie has also enjoyed teaching as an Adjunct Professor for several years.
Julie co-founded the 10th Street Area Business Association in Jeffersonville, IN. She has served as a student mentor and on several boards to include: The Leukemia Lymphoma Society, Jeffersonville Revolving Loan Fund Board, Jeffersonville Planning Committee, Habitat for Humanity Board, Treasurer for the New Albany Rotary Club and Rotary Foundation of New Albany, Secretary for The Windsor Society, Personal Counseling Service, Inc. and Chairperson for the Society of Samaritan Women and the Rotary Toast. Currently, Julie is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management, American Psychological Association, Leadership Southern Indiana-Impact Committee, and non-profit volunteer.