The remarkable generosity of James and Barbara Stewart was honored August 22 at the University of Findlay with the dedication of a building in their honor.
“Jim and Barbara’s commitment of $5 million to the Findlay Fund represents one of the most significant unrestricted gifts in the University’s history,” UF President Richard Ludwick, J.D., D.Ed., said. “Their gift will provide general support for the University and strengthen the institution’s mission and future for generations to come.”
Jim, a 1968 graduate of Findlay College, and his wife Barbara came from Florida for the celebration and were accompanied by their three daughters, husbands, and five grandchildren.
“We are so thankful the Stewarts have shared their blessings with the University,” said Kenneth McIntyre Jr., vice president of University advancement. “It is our pleasure to recognize them by naming this building in their honor.”
McIntyre explained the unique role of the building, formerly known as the Winebrenner building.
“This building is a gateway to the University, welcoming Oiler students, parents, alumni, visitors, and friends,” he explained. “It houses the Admissions office, where families and new students begin their exploration of Oiler Nation. It is also home to our Advancement and Alumni office that connects graduates and UF donors and friends to campus, linking them to a special place that they cherish and support.”
“In addition, the building retains our Christian heritage and UF’s fellowship with the Winebrenner Theological Seminary. Winebrenner faculty offices are located here and classes take place often on evenings and weekends.”
UF Board of Trustees member Dr. William Kose, M.D., noted the rich tradition of philanthropy on campus, powered by generous donors like the Stewarts.
“The University of Findlay has a long history of alumni and friends who are generous philanthropists whom we see reflected in the names of our many historic buildings, classrooms, and facilities,” he said. “These are people who have been passionate about giving their time, talent, and treasure.”
“In supporting the Findlay Fund, the Stewarts have become essential partners providing the financial, structural, and educational resources that our students depend upon to achieve success,” Dr. Kose continued. “On behalf of those thousands of talented, hard-working Oilers yet to arrive on campus, we say ‘thank you.’”
Returning to Findlay nearly 60 years after his graduation, Mr. Stewart was impressed by the progress and transformation of the University.
“I’m amazed at how it’s grown – I couldn’t be more proud of this school,” he said.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing and a minor in psychology. Receiving his draft notice on Graduation Day, he enlisted in the Air Force Air National Guard, based out of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, serving six months on active duty in 1968 during the Vietnam war.
Following his military service, he was hired at Ford Motor Company, where he would go on to work for more than 20 years in sales and marketing positions around the country.
Jim then co-owned a marketing firm with Edsel B. Ford II before moving to Florida, where he became a successful entrepreneur of businesses in automotive services, real estate, fitness, and marketing, and serving as a life coach.
He credits his lifelong success to the values of hard work and persistence that he learned at Findlay College. He developed a positive, assertive attitude through the discipline of his studies. He likes to quote Henry Ford’s saying: “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t – you’re right.”
“I’m so grateful to have been here at Findlay, to have studied, to have learned to succeed,” Mr. Stewart said. “Findlay did a lot for me – why not pay it back?”
Pictured above:
Pictured at the ceremony, from left, are: UF Board of Trustees member Dr. William Kose, UF President Richard Ludwick, J.D., D.Ed., Barbara and Jim Stewart.
