We learned the sad news that Paul Purcell, chair of Mendoza’s Business Advisory Council, passed away on Friday after battling cancer. 

Paul, a 1969 graduate of Notre Dame, most recently served as chairman of Baird, as well as its global private equity business Baird Capital, and as a member of the boards of directors of Baird Financial Group and affiliated entities. He previously worked for more than two decades at Kidder, Peabody & Co. as managing director and head of the Midwest Investment Banking Group.

A great friend to Mendoza with a deep commitment to serving others, Paul joined the BAC in 2005 and served for three terms as chair. Paul was a champion for our students — many of whom have gone on to distinguished careers at Baird — and a passionate supporter of Business on the Frontlines. 

He received many awards and commendations for his professional excellence, personal integrity and philanthropic service, including the Distinguished Corporate Alumni Award from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, where he earned his MBA, the Medical College of Wisconsin's Warren P. Knowles Humanitarian Award, and the United Community Center's "Friends of the Hispanic Community Award." Paul also served on boards for Teach for America - Milwaukee, Alverno College and the Cristo Rey Network, among others. 

As dean, I am deeply humbled by and grateful for Paul’s leadership, friendship and guidance as council chair.

Paul's wake will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday (March 8) at Sullivan's Funeral Home in Hinsdale, Illinois (60 S. Grant St, Hinsdale, IL 60521). The funeral will take place at 11 a.m. on Monday (March 9) at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Clarendon Hills, Illinois (64 Norfolk Ave., Clarendon Hills, IL 60514).

Please join me in praying for Paul, Patti and the Purcell family. We will also honor Paul's memory at our BAC meeting in May.

In Notre Dame,

Martijn