The Scheinfeld Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation began with the generous support of the late James D. Scheinfeld. A permanent endowment to support the Center was formally created through Mr. Scheinfeld’s family trust in the fall of 2007. Scheinfeld’s vision to encourage and support the development of new businesses, promote entrepreneurship, and assist existing businesses in Santa Barbara was born from his genuine regard and commitment to equal access to educational opportunities for all individuals.
Scheinfeld was a dedicated and generous supporter of Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) and served as Board Member of the SBCC Foundation beginning in 1989 and as its Chairman from 1996 to 2000. Scheinfeld co-chaired the 21st Century Campaign from 1990 to 1996, raising more than $25 million for College programs and facilities. He was a generous contributor to the college with gifts totaling over $2 million, supporting numerous academic programs and student services.
Originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Mr. Scheinfeld had a long and successful career as a military veteran, businessman, and entrepreneur, forming several companies. Scheinfeld enlisted in the Navy in 1944 and served in the battle to secure Okinawa and in the occupation of Japan. He was awarded the Purple Heart and the Asia Pacific medal, with one star. Following the war, Scheinfeld graduated magna cum laude from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a major in labor economics.
Scheinfeld’s father, Aaron, co-founded the temporary help firm Manpower, Inc., in 1948. James Scheinfeld worked with the company from the beginning, working his way up to C.O.O. by 1965. Between that time and 1976, when it was acquired by Parker Pen, he was responsible for building half of the company’s revenue and profit via its international operations. By the time of the acquisition, he had helped Manpower open over 1,000 offices in 32 countries and earn revenues in excess of $1 billion annually.
Following the acquisition, Scheinfeld established four companies; one of them being Travelpower, Inc., a travel agency with 20 full service chains throughout Wisconsin. In December 1984, Scheinfeld sold Travelpower to Ask Mr. Foster (now CWT–Carlson Wagonlit Travel).
Scheinfeld moved to Santa Barbara upon his retirement in 1985. He was actively involved with local organizations and charities until his passing in 2007. A resolution citing Mr. Scheinfeld’s achievements, and announcing his endowment of the Scheinfeld Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation was passed and adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Santa Barbara Community College District on October 18, 2007. SBCC and the Scheinfeld Center remains committed to fulfilling James Scheinfeld’s legacy.
