Man of steel and Loyola collaborate for continuing education

$250,000 gift to School of Continuing and Professional Studies

In 1981, Jim Bouchard (BBA '84) returned to Chicago from the University of San Diego after his father passed away. Out of money and financing options, Loyola's University College, now known as the School of Continuing and Professional Studies, was a viable opportunity.

Following in his father's footsteps, Bouchard took continuing education classes while working and finished his degree in 1984. Now, Bouchard is a proven business leader, overseeing the growth of Esmark, Inc., from a small family company to one of the largest steel companies in the country. In honor of his leadership, innovation, and engaged citizenship, he received the Damen Award from the School of Continuing and Professional Studies in 2007.

Knowing the challenges that face students in continuing education, and driven to give every student the same opportunities that he had, Bouchard, along with his wife, Carolyn, have recently given $250,000 to the School of Continuing and Professional Studies. 

Jeffrey Rosen, PhD, dean of the School of Continuing and Professional Studies, says that the gift will be especially helpful to adult students who are working while pursuing their degrees.

Read more about Bouchard's generous gift, and the effect it will have upon the lives of students in continuing education at Loyola.