Honoring the Life and Legacy of Jim Schroeder

Dear University Community,

It is with an extremely heavy heart that I share the passing of Jim Schroeder ’65, beloved alumnus, devoted leader, and unwavering champion of the University of Redlands. Jim was so much more than an alumnus—he was a fixture in our community, a friend to so many, and a person who truly embodied what it means to be a Bulldog. His kindness, generosity, and boundless love for this University knew no limits. 

Jim’s commitment to Redlands spanned decades. A proud Bulldog for Life, he dedicated years of service as a member of our Board of Trustees, working tirelessly to ensure a bright future for the institution he held so dear. He and his beloved wife, Althea (honorary alumna ’23), his high school sweetheart, have been a constant presence on our campus. Together, they have been a powerful force behind so many of the traditions and experiences that define the Bulldog spirit.

Believing every pep band deserves a sousaphone, Jim and Althea made sure our Conservatory of Music had one. They also believed our student-athletes should have every opportunity to train at their best, so they provided the financial support for air conditioning in our historic gym during the warmest summer months, updated the fitness center, helped fund the development of the new Coach Jim Verdieck Tennis Center, and led efforts to revitalize the Bulldog Bench and establish the Bulldog Bench Endowed Fund. Their commitment to school spirit was just as evident in their support of the Cheer and Pom teams, ensuring Redlands pride was always on full display. Jim always took the time to meet with each athletic coach and develop a report on their critical needs and then worked to find and fund solutions.

Jim and Althea’s generosity extended far beyond athletics. Together, they championed academic and global opportunities by funding scholarships for Global Business students, enabling their participation in immersive summer language programs, and supporting counselor visitation programs to strengthen student recruitment efforts. They also welcomed prospective students into their home, hosted alumni events, and regularly traveled to campus to cheer on our athletes. 

Jim spent countless hours ensuring that the University had a reliable and affordable energy supply. He led the effort to add the University’s co-generation plant and served on the Energy Committee that brought solar to campus. It is safe to say that there is not a part of the University that Jim didn’t positively impact. 

Jim’s love for Redlands was rooted in his own student experience. He played on the men’s basketball team and was a member of Kappa Sigma Sigma. He graduated in 1965 with a Bachelor of Science degree in geology with an emphasis in geophysics before earning a Master of Science degree in geology from San Diego State University in 1967. His passion for exploration and problem-solving led to an extraordinary 50-year career in the domestic and foreign oil, gas, and energy industries. He began as an exploration geologist and geophysicist with Standard Oil Company of California (now Chevron) before founding and leading several successful energy companies, including Mesa Hydrocarbons, LLC, Laramie Energy, LLC, and Mesa Energy Partners, LLC. Most recently, he served as Managing Director of Energy Associates, LLC.

Beyond his business ventures, Jim was deeply involved in industry leadership. He served on the Board of Directors for the Research Partnership to Secure Energy for America, the Colorado Mesa University President’s Advisory Board, and the Executive Committee for the Western Energy Alliance. He also contributed his expertise as a member of the Board of Directors for K2 Commodities, LLC, and was a founding member of the University’s Global Business Advisory Board. In recognition of his industry contributions, he was inducted into the Mountain States Hall of Fame in 2009. 

Despite his many professional achievements, Jim’s heart always remained at Redlands. He was ever-present at campus events, quick with a warm handshake or a laugh, and always eager to engage with students, faculty, and staff. His legacy is not only in the places and programs he helped build but in the spirit of community he cultivated. His unwavering belief in the power of education, his commitment to our University’s future, and his genuine kindness will remain in our hearts forever.

Today, our campus feels a little quieter as we mourn the loss of our dear friend. Yet, in that quiet, his presence remains in the traditions he helped build and the enduring spirit of the community he cherished so deeply. We honor his memory by carrying forward his unwavering belief in the power of Redlands and the work we do together. 

Please join me in extending our deepest sympathies to Althea and the entire Schroeder family, including their three children and several grandchildren, during this difficult time. Jim’s Bulldog legacy extends well beyond his own dedication, as his brother Jack ’62 and sister-in-law Judy ’63, as well as numerous members of his extended family are also proud members of the U of R community. Our hearts are with them in love, in gratitude, and in shared sorrow.  

Sincerely,

Krista L. Newkirk
President