In Remembrance: James W. Scheib – A Champion for The University of Toledo
As we gather to celebrate this year’s distinguished alumni award recipients at the annual Homecoming Gala, we take a moment to honor James W. Scheib ’59, the 2008 Blue T Awardee and proud 1959 graduate of The University of Toledo.
A Legacy of Academic Support
Scheib earned a Bachelor of Business Administration and remained an enthusiastic Rocket supporter for the rest of his life. His commitment to The University of Toledo was evident through his service on various boards, including the UToledo Foundation’s Board of Trustees and the Dean’s Advisory Council for the College of Medicine and Life Sciences. Notably, he chaired the College of Business UT40 Campaign, which successfully raised more than $13 million to enhance academic programs and support student success.
Beyond his contributions to UToledo, Scheib demonstrated his dedication to education by ensuring opportunities for students at both his alma maters. As a proud graduate of Scott High School, he also funded a scholarship to enable a Scott High student to attend The University of Toledo.
Scheib’s support extended beyond financial contributions. He generously shared his expertise in insurance and financial advising with students and residents, offering valuable insights and guidance on relevant topics.
“I had the pleasure of knowing Jim for more than 20 years, starting back when I was a student worker at The University of Toledo Foundation,” said Jennifer Schaefer, now assistant vice president for major and principal gifts at the UToledo Foundation. “It was a privilege to attend Rocket athletic events with him and his late wife, Sue, and be a part of his philanthropic journey of giving back to the University in ways that were meaningful to he and Sue. He was always interested in maximizing his impact, by getting others involved. Jim embodied the true meaning of being a Rocket – he was dedicated to improving the human condition for generations of UToledo students to come.”
A True Rocket Fanatic
Scheib’s passion for UToledo Athletics was matched by his extensive knowledge of current and former student-athletes. Alongside his wife, Sue, he impacted more than 400 UToledo student-athletes through their dedicated support. This included philanthropic gifts to various sports programs and the Rocket Fund. Scheib was a familiar face at athletic events, often sharing intriguing statistics and facts with fellow fans. Even when he couldn’t attend, he ensured his seats were filled by friends or family.
He also funded three significant scholarships: the Sue Scheib Basketball Scholarship, the B.V. Scheib M.D., and the James Scheib Scholarship for students majoring in professional sales or finance. Additionally he supported cancer research at the COMLS by creating the Mary Helen Darah Cancer Research Fund. His long-standing commitment was further evidenced by his season tickets for men’s and women’s basketball, reflecting his deep connection to UToledo athletics.
“Jim’s professionalism and meticulous attention to detail were truly admirable. I always enjoyed seeing him at basketball games, particularly in the Joe Grogan Room. His deep care for The University of Toledo and its future was evident. Our student-athletes, coaches, and staff will always be grateful for Jim, Sue, and their remarkable generosity,” said Dillon Horter, associate director of development, University of Toledo Athletics.
Scheib’s extraordinary service and dedication were honored with the Daniel J. Saevig Blue T Award in 2008, celebrating his outstanding contributions to the University and the UToledo Alumni Association. James W. Scheib’s legacy of leadership, generosity and commitment to education will forever be intertwined with the future of The University of Toledo.