Rick Graycarek, who has spent much of his career handling budget and finance responsibilities at the University of Louisville, will rejoin the university Nov. 24 as its executive vice president for finance and administration/CFO, pending approval of the Board of Trustees.
Graycarek comes to UofL from the University of Indianapolis, where he has been executive vice president of finance and administration since February 2024. During his tenure, he led the university to consecutive years of improved finances, including a 70% increase in cash balances and a 10% increase in endowment market value. Graycarek also eliminated a $17 million budget deficit while resourcing funds for cost-of-living increases, enhanced student mental health services, increased student financial aid and improved residence hall experiences. He also successfully led a $79 million housing transaction that secured long-term university ownership of three apartment complexes and provided significant upfront and ongoing financial benefits.
“We’re excited to bring Rick back home to UofL,” said President Gerry Bradley. “He is an accomplished and experienced financial leader with a proven track record in budget management, capital planning and leading successful teams. Best of all, he knows the opportunities and realities here at UofL. We’re confident in his ability to address a challenging financial climate.”
Graycarek has a master’s degree with a public administration/public finance concentration from the University of Kentucky and a bachelor’s degree in economics and political science from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. He also completed the Fellows program with the National Association of College and University Business Officers.
At UofL, Graycarek replaces Charlie Perusse, who had been serving as EVPFA/CFO in an interim role. Perusse presented a balanced budget for fiscal year 2026 despite considerable pressures and worked on a new affiliation agreement with UofL Health.
Graycarek previously worked under UofL EVPFA/CFO Dan Durbin, who passed away earlier this year.
“I am deeply grateful and excited to return to the Cardinal family,” Graycarek said. “I look forward to working with President Bradley and his team, the Board of Trustees and the entire UofL community to advance the university’s strategic plan. I am also incredibly thankful for my family, friends and Dan Durbin whose support and inspiration have meant the world to me.”
