Rice University is evolving, and Real Estate & Facilities (RE&F) is taking strategic steps to ensure the university’s infrastructure keeps pace with its ambitious growth. To enhance operational performance, improve the customer experience, and support Rice’s expanding research enterprise, RE&F is undergoing a significant transformation.
As Rice continues to grow, RE&F must operate as a cohesive, efficient, and effective partner. This transformation is guided by the Operations, Finance, and Support strategic plan themes:
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Operational Excellence – Model operational excellence by innovatively enhancing service delivery, administrative efficiency, and financial performance.
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Customer Experience – Deliver an unparalleled customer experience within our diverse community by fostering a culture of empathy, transparency, and responsiveness while anticipating the evolving needs of our university.
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Community of Care – Cultivate an equitable, inclusive, and safe environment that promotes well-being and belonging for all community members.
By focusing on these themes, RE&F serves as a supportive and strategic partner in Rice’s future.
Organizational Changes
In February 2025, RE&F introduced three new departments and welcomed Environmental Health, Safety, & Laboratory Operations as part of a strategic realignment to enhance coordination, efficiency, and service delivery.
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Environmental Health, Safety, & Laboratory Operations (EHSLO), led by Chris Mize, has transitioned from Campus Safety to RE&F. This shift enhances collaboration in the design, construction, and maintenance of Rice’s growing infrastructure—particularly as research expansion accelerates. EHSLO will also continue to provide exceptional service in safety compliance and laboratory operations.
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Engineering, Infrastructure, & Utilities, led by Elmer Whitehead, oversees plant operations, energy and utility systems, building renewals, engineering, and infrastructure planning to strengthen campus infrastructure.
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Property Operations will manage landscaping, custodial services, building maintenance, and critical research environments such as the BRC and O’Connor buildings. A national search for an executive director is currently underway.
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Strategic Planning & Business Operations will focus on strategic initiatives, communications, and people operations for RE&F. A national search for an executive director is in progress.
These structural enhancements will streamline operations, improve resource management, and elevate service delivery across campus. By optimizing its organizational framework, RE&F is ensuring a more sustainable, resilient, and forward-thinking future for Rice students, faculty, and staff.