From Courtside to Community Impact: Celebrating John and Susan Scheinman’s Legacy of Giving at Plymouth State
Proud Panther parents and donors, John and Susan Scheinman ‘P19, ‘P21G.
“When my wife Susan and I came to Plymouth in 1999 so I could coach basketball, never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d end up leading our Advancement team and engaging folks in philanthropy,” recalls Scheinman P’19, P’21.
And yet, that’s exactly where his journey led, creating a remarkable path of service that has left an enduring mark on Plymouth State University. Over the course of his tenure, John has worked across academic departments, with the community, and most importantly with students, to cultivate a culture of philanthropy that continues to shape campus life today.
“John has made a lasting impact on our community,” says Rodney Ekstrom ’09G, Director of Alumni Relations and Development. “His success as a coach, fundraiser, and colleague stems from his ability to listen deeply and treat everyone with dignity and respect.”
That same spirit of respect has been a guiding force in John’s relationship with students.
One of his most enduring principles is simple, yet powerful: “I’ll never apologize for asking for money for deserving Plymouth State students.”
“John was one of the first people on campus who believed in this potential of mine that I didn’t know I had,” says Alyssa Griffin ‘23. “He was one of my biggest supporters – academically, professionally, and personally – throughout my PSU career. I will always be grateful for his mentorship.”
As both a coach and a parent, John witnessed first hand the role financial support plays—not only in helping students succeed, but often in helping them stay.
“My first impression of John was that he is a funny guy. But behind all the joking, he is a good guy who really cares about people,” says Gene Martin ’09. “People ask how you are doing, but not only does John mean it – he wants to know.”
During his ten years as Plymouth State’s head basketball coach, John saw first hand the many challenges student athletes faced, both on and off the court. As parents of a Panther, he and Susan witnessed their son Jacob’s classmates confronting financial obstacles, from tuition shortfalls to urgent living expenses, that threatened their education.
Motivated to make a difference, John and Susan took action.
They established the Plymouth Opportunity Scholarship Angel Fund: a source of emergency financial aid for students facing crisis situations. Whether addressing food insecurity or sudden housing needs, the Angel Fund provides a vital safety net.
The Scheinmans also created the Parents Scholarship, a unique initiative funded entirely by Plymouth State parents, designed to foster student success through collaborative family support.
“So many students struggle to pay for that last bit of their tuition bill,” says John. “These scholarships help to ensure that they can complete their degree.”
John recently celebrated his retirement from Plymouth State. While this time marks the end of an era, it also signals the beginning of a lasting legacy that he and Susan built together.
“During his career at PSU, John supported students in every way possible,” says former colleague and friend Ann Thurston ‘80, ‘00G, ‘07CAGS. “Through their endowed scholarships, he and Susan will continue to support students for the years to come.”
Whether opening up their home for Taco Tuesdays or investing in scholarship programs, the Scheinmans have consistently put students at the heart of their work. Their unwavering dedication has created meaningful change—for individuals, families, and the broader campus community.
John’s journey, from courtside to the Advancement office, is a testament to the power of leadership grounded in empathy, purpose, and an unshakable belief in education. The Plymouth State community is profoundly grateful to John and Susan for their enduring support and generous spirit.
