Rick DuPraw

Rick serves as executive vice president at Leopardo Companies and is one of the most prominent construction executives in the region, as supported by his 2016 induction to the Midwest Real Estate News Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame. He also oversees Leopardo’s tenant interiors group, which is responsible for build-outs, renovations and restorations of commercial spaces. With Rick at the helm, Leopardo’s interiors business grew substantially in annual revenue and continues to be recognized by peers, clients and the media for its best-in-class construction.

Before his career in construction began, Rick was the drummer in a touring rock-a-billy band. His career with Leopardo began in 1983 when he was hired as a laborer and the company’s fourth employee. Combining his passion for music and community, Rick is currently the drummer for Liquidated Damages, a charitable rock band comprised of musicians from Leopardo and its business partners. He also serves on the board of directors for the United Service Organization (USO) of Illinois, a nonprofit organization providing programs, services and live entertainment to United States military service members and their families. He earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and communications from Southern Illinois University.