James E. Buckman

The daughter and son-in-law of the late James E. Buckman, a leading figure in the linen industry, yesterday announced the founding of the Ernst & Young, James E. Buckman Memorial Scholarship/Fellowship for students at Indiana University's Kelley School of Business. Buckman, a co-owner of Chicago-based BBJ Linen, died in an automobile crash one year ago yesterday.

The fund will benefit students interested in a business education at Kelley School of Business, located in Bloomington, Ind. Ernst & Young, employer of Justin Greis, Buckman's son-in-law, will match the couple’s donations made to the fund. Both Katharine Greis, Buckman's daughter, and her husband are graduates of the Kelley School.

“This scholarship seemed like the perfect way to honor my father’s memory," Katharine Greis said. "Our whole family is just so happy the Buckman name will live on to help people for years to come.”

“Jim believed strongly in the value of education," Justin Greis said. "He supported his own employees--many of whom started at BBJ Linen without college degrees--in their higher education endeavors."

"Jim Buckman was a key player in Chicago's special events industry," said Fergus Rooney, co-owner of Chicago-based Event Architects and Katharine Greis' employer. "Due to many of his efforts, we are all privileged to work in a robust and thriving industry in Chicago.”

Those interested in donating to this fund may participate online by clicking “Make Your Gift” and entering account number 32B011ET0 at the Indiana University Foundation site or mail checks to:

Kelley School of Business
Attn: Jennifer Gray
1275 E. 10th Street, Suite 3080
Bloomington, IN 47405