Heizer Center for Private Equity and Venture Capital

Established in 1988 through an endowment by Mr. and Mrs. Edgar F. "Ned" Heizer, Jr., the center supports research projects on the basics of entrepreneurship and private equity.

Mr. Heizer, former CEO of Heizer Corp., was presented by the Illinois Venture Capital Association with the 2004 Stanley C. Golder Medal, which acknowledges individuals who have made "profound and lasting" contributions to the private equity industry in Illinois.

Mr. Heizer served as chief executive with Heizer Corp. from 1969 to 1985, when the company liquidated. Mr. Heizer's investments include Federal Express and IDC Corp. He was known for being among the first to attract institutional investors to venture capital and early stage investing.