WSU Entrepreneur in Residence Randal Charlton to assume interim role as TechTown Executive Director
TechTown Executive Director Howard Bell has joined Scholastic Inc., the New York-based publishing house, as vice president and general manager, assessment. In his new role, Bell will manage the creation and distribution of educational products and serve as a national consultant for urban public school districts. Randal Charlton, former CEO of Asterand (TechTown’s first and largest tenant) and special assistant to Wayne State University President Irvin D. Reid for Economic Development, will act as interim executive director as of March 1, 2007, when Bell’s transition to Scholastic is complete.
Wayne State University President Irvin D. Reid noted that Charlton is well qualified to expand upon the milestones achieved by Bell. “Howard Bell’s achievements on behalf of TechTown are in large part responsible for the momentum we are seeing today,” noted Wayne State University President and TechTown Chairman of the Board Irvin D. Reid. “He helped secure more than $4 million in 21st Century Jobs Fund grants from the state of Michigan within the last year. He also spearheaded the $14 million renovation of TechOne, transforming the formerly vacant building into a modern office and laboratory complex. In short, Howard’s passion continues to propel TechTown’s success.”
Charlton said, “As the first tenant of TechTown I have seen first hand the rapid progress achieved in just a few short years. I am looking forward to assisting in TechTown\'s further development.” As the former CEO of Asterand, Charlton is credited with transforming the 2000 TechTown start-up company into the world’s leading supplier of high quality human tissue and tissue-based services. Charlton added, “The University\'s commitment to TechTown facilitates the integration of technology into the marketplace, while stimulating urban renewal and creating jobs. As TechTown attracts new tenants from the Detroit area and beyond, it reinforces Wayne State’s international reputation as a world leader in technology transfer.”
Bell noted that TechTown exemplifies Wayne State University’s leadership in biotechnology. The planned $1.3 billion research and development park is today home to more than 50 life sciences, alternative energy, homeland security and advanced engineering companies. According to Bell, the long-term master plan for TechTown involves the development of 12 square city blocks that connect New Center and Midtown.
Bell will continue to reside in Detroit, remain on the TechTown board of directors after March 1, and stay actively engaged in the effort to promote TechTown’s growth.