Well-known local entrepreneur and educator Michael Burcham has been given the nod to head up the Nashville Entrepreneur Center beginning July 5.

Burcham, who currently is a clinical faculty member at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management and helps lead the Summer Business Institute, has deep roots in the local entrepreneurial community. His former positions include president of ParadigmHealth, an integrator of disease and care management solution; professor of managerial studies at Vanderbilt University; president of Theraphysics Corp.; vice president of managed care at HCA Centennial Medical Center from; and a regional coordinator of physical therapy services at National HealthCorp LP.

He holds 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. He also has been a very public advocate of GLBT rights and workforce related issues throughout his career, and says that the new position is another indicator that the GLBT community can achieve parity in the professional community.

"I found the selection process for the new president for the Nashville Entrepreneur Center well organized and very professionally managed,” Burcham said. “While my sexual orientation is no secret, it was never an issue anywhere in the interview or selection process. Those who know me also know I have such passion for building new businesses. I believe that 'can do' spirit, coupled with my track record as a proven entrepreneur and my love for this city were significant factors in being chosen to lead this important initiative for our city.”

For their part, the center’s administrators say they are very pleased with their decision, and look forward to working with Burcham through a startup period and beyond as the facility looks to find a permanent physical home and set up operations.