Don and Linda Brodie

Don Brodie
Don is an entrepreneur, chemist, and philanthropist with more than four decades of leadership in advanced materials, biotechnology, and industrial water treatment. In 1980, Don and his brother Steve co-founded Purolite in the basement of Don’s home. What began as a family venture grew into a global enterprise employing more than 1,600 people worldwide.

Over 40 years, the Brodie brothers led Purolite’s transformation into an international industry leader. The company established five state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and advanced research and development centers that fueled innovation and positioned Purolite as a pioneer in its field. In December 2021, Purolite was acquired by Ecolab of St. Paul, Minnesota.

Before founding Purolite, Don held manufacturing and sales roles in the food and chemical industries, including at Sybron Chemical, where he developed both technical expertise and commercial insight. Born and raised in Philadelphia, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from West Virginia University in 1969. Don remained deeply connected to the university, serving for more than 15 years on the Advisory Board of the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences and being inducted into its Academy of Distinguished Alumni in 2012.

Linda Brodie
Linda has been an essential partner in Don’s professional and philanthropic journey. With a background in law firm management, she played a critical role in Purolite’s early administrative and financial operations and remained a trusted source of guidance throughout its growth.

Guided by their Jewish heritage and shared values, Don and Linda approach philanthropy with intentionality and stewardship. They reside in Boca Raton, Florida, and are devoted to their family, including three children and five grandchildren, while remaining committed to advancing education and strengthening communitie