Michael R. Burcham will take over the reins of the new center on July 5, once his responsibilities at Vanderbilt wind down, said Joe Kustelski, spokesman for the center.
Burcham, who has been on the group's board, will lead the center as it assembles a staff and budget and works to find a physical location for the center. He also will be implementing a "100-day" plan, Kustelski said.
"The creative energy and business talent in this city is just amazing," Burcham said in a statement. "I look forward to working with the people of this great community to help turn ideas into successful businesses."
Burcham is a clinical faculty member at Owen, where he teaches entrepreneur classes and helps lead the Summer Business Institute, a monthlong program for college students and recent graduates.
"Under his leadership, we are confident the Entrepreneur Center will be a strong catalyst for entrepreneurial activity in our city," said the Entrepreneur Center's chairman, Clayton McWhorter, founder of Clayton Associates LLC.
Formerly, Burcham was president of ParadigmHealth, an integrator of disease and care management solutions, from 2001 to 2007; professor of managerial studies at Vanderbilt University from 2003 to 2007; president of Theraphysics Corp. from 1993 to 2001; vice president of managed care at HCA Centennial Medical Center from 1987 to 1992; and a regional coordinator of physical therapy services at National HealthCorp LP from 1983 to 1987.
He received a doctorate in health administration from the Medical University of South Carolina, a master's in business administration from Belmont University and a bachelor's degree in physical therapy from the University of Mississippi Medical Center.
"Michael's experience and passion for entrepreneurship brings new energy and a credible voice to help lead this charge," said board member Mike Shmerling, chairman of Choice Food Group and XMi Holdings Inc.
Reach Bonna Johnson at 726-5990 or bjohnson@tennessean.com.
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