the Richard R. and Lela M. Schier Endowed Scholarship

The Richard R. and Lela M. Schier Endowed Scholarship was established in 2016 through outright and residual beneficiary gifts to The University of Akron from the Richard R. Schier Trust Estate and the Lela M. Schier Trust Estate.

A lifelong Cleveland resident, Richard graduated from West Technical High School. During his 1941-1945 tour in the U.S. Navy, he received specialized mechanical and gear training in the air force, as well as a pilot’s license, and was known as the pilot of choice for high-ranking Navy officers. In September 1951, Richard became an associate member of the U.S. Naval Institute and during his long employment with the Eaton Corporation in Cleveland, he held several engineering patents. Following his retirement from Eaton, he created the consulting company, Schier Clutch and Gear Company.

Lela attended Ohio University and majored in business and accounting. She utilized this education throughout her career at various Cleveland companies.

The Richard R. and Lela M. Schier Endowed Scholarship was established to assist students pursuing undergraduate degrees in engineering or economics. Eligible students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and exhibit outstanding academic credentials at the time the scholarship is distributed.

The Office of Student Financial Aid, in collaboration with a representative from the respective academic units, will select the recipient(s). The scholarship is renewable if the recipient maintains all requirements and is in good standing with The University of Akron.