Commercial real estate developer Marc Hagle — whose career includes developing sites for Walmart and leading projects ranging from apartment communities to medical facilities across the United States — shared lessons from decades in the industry during a recent visit to Purdue.
Hagle, president and CEO of Tricor International, joined the Real Estate Development and Investments course as a guest lecturer on February 20 before meeting with Dean V. White Real Estate Scholars for a luncheon discussion on leadership, career growth and the importance of giving back.
During the classroom session and lunch, Hagle offered students an inside look at the discipline, resilience and long-term perspective required to build a successful career in commercial real estate. Drawing on his experience developing retail, residential and mixed-use projects nationwide, he emphasized the importance of persistence, thoughtful decision-making and maintaining a clear vision while navigating the challenges of the industry.
One of the most impactful parts of the luncheon was the conversation around what success means in today’s world. Hagle emphasized that success is not defined solely by professional accomplishments, but also by the way we lead, the values we uphold and the impact we have on others. This message provided an important reminder that meaningful success is built on both achievement and character.
Another major takeaway was the importance of giving back. Hagle and his wife, Sharon, spoke to the value of using one’s platform and resources to create opportunities for others and to contribute to the broader community through legacy. Their remarks reinforced the idea that leadership in any industry carries a responsibility to serve and make a lasting difference.
The lunch was an exclusive professional development event for Dean V. White Real Estate Scholars, designed to connect students with industry leaders and prepare them for future leadership roles in commercial real estate. Events like this complement the academic curriculum by giving students direct exposure to real-world practice and career trajectories.
