The Steinmann Family Foundation Supports Future Healthcare Providers

The late Robert (UC McMicken A&S ’49 and Winkle College of Pharmacy ’53) and Christine Steinmann (Good Samaritan, Nursing) had a heart for students who wanted to become pharmacists. In appreciation of the impact those disciplines have on the health of society, they decided to give back to their alma mater and support students who strive to become pharmacists and nurses by setting up the Steinmann Family Foundation. In 2006, the family members, honoring their aunt and uncle established the Robert P. Steinmann Endowed Scholarship Fund at the University of Cincinnati’s James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy. Today their dream lives on through their University of Cincinnati-connected family and the Steinmann Family Foundation.

“My aunt and uncle understood how demanding the study of pharmacy had become when they established the foundation in 2005,” said Bruce Fister, lieutenant general, USAF, retired and president of the Steinmann Family Foundation. “Today, the courses in that field are longer, more complex and more expensive. These students sometimes need assistance to achieve their dreams, and we’re happy to carry on the Steinmann legacy and support their future.”

The Steinmann Family Foundation (comprised of the Cappel, Fister and Stretch families) has set up scholarships that help high-achieving students in the pharmacy program go above-and-beyond in their studies. One such student is Jackie Finger, a fourth-year pharmacy student and recipient of the Steinmann scholarship. As part of the college’s outstanding pharmacy curricula, Finger  traveled with other pharmacy students to Orlando, Fla., for the American Society of Health-Systems Pharmacists (ASHP) to compete in the Clinical Skills Competition along with classmate Rachael Fleagle. After a strenuous three days of judging, these two students won first place.

“I am truly grateful for the Steinmann Family Foundation and the scholarship I received as part of their donation to UC,” said Finger. “Their support encourages me to work even harder in my studies, and it allows me to take my education to the next level. I have learned that if you work hard enough and are passionate about what you do, your efforts will not go unnoticed.”

Like many donors, the Steinmann Foundation hopes that their financial support will have a direct impact on students. The foundation hopes that students will be encouraged to remain persistent in their studies and go on to become great healthcare providers who contribute to the welfare of society.

“Congratulations to Ms. Finger and Fleagle and the UC James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy. We in the Steinmann Foundation are pleased that we could have just a small part in the achievements of these two young ladies. We are proud of their success in winning the American Society of Health System's clinical skills competition.”

When asked what one piece of advice he would give to the Steinmann Scholarship recipients, Fister answered, “Never give up, focus on your patients, maintain integrity above all else, and serve with excellence in all you do.” 

Finger’s feelings about the scholarship echo the Steinmann’s goals. “I wish the Steinmann Foundation knew how thrilled I was when I found out I won the award,” concluded Finger. “I hope that someday I can make a student feel the same way.” 

If you want to support scholarships at the University of Cincinnati, please visit uc.edu/give to make your gift today!