Hall of Fame
Rudy Michalek launched a long and successful career in the long term healthcare industry through his time at St. Procopius College, now Benedictine University, and will add a new accomplishment to his resume on October 21 by joining the Benedictine Athletics Hall of Fame.
"I am deeply humbled to be included with such an outstanding group of individuals," Michalek said.
Michalek competed at St. Procopius from 1961-65 and held three individual school records, the 120 high hurdles, the 220 low hurdles, and the high jump. Michalek also held the 440 relay record. Michalek took part in the javelin, discus and pole vault while running the 330 intermediate hurdles in the only season the event was contested.
Michalek is presently the owner and president of Premier Health Care Management in Clearwater Beach, FL and is also employed as the interim CEO/President of the American College of Health Care Administrators. Michalek doubles as the owner and president of VJA Health Facilities and has served as president and owner of both companies since 1996.
Michalek has done countless pro-bono work during his professional career, serving at numerous conventions and conferences around the country, embodying the Benedictine Hallmarks.
Michalek utilized hard work to reach the top of his field, hard work that began at St. Procopius. On top of a full class load and athletics, Michalek worked a 40-hour a week job.
"St. Procopius College and the professors' life philosophy confirmed and strengthened the moral, ethical values and standards of how we should live our lives for the betterment of all mankind," Michalek said. "I have endeavored to bring these values into my relationships be they family, business, or community."
Away from the classroom, Michalek starred on the track, helping to build and showcase characteristics that would last long beyond his time at St. Procopius. Michalek succeeded on the track and in the field, participating in as many as six events during any given week, using the opportunity to help the team in any way possible. Michalek led the team in scoring. He was a two-year captain in 1964 and 1965 and was named as the team's MVP each of those years.
"I remember mostly the comradery and friendship of classmates and teammates," Michalek said.
Michalek was also active in intramurals during his tenure and graduated with a BA in economics.
The 2017 Athletics Hall of Fame will take place on Saturday, October 21.
