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James Bouchard, Esmark Inc. Founder and Executive Chairman, Commits Nearly $1.5 Million to Hinsdale, Illinois, Youth Education and Sports

via Business Wire

Esmark Inc. today announced that James Bouchard has committed over $1.5 million over the next six years to the Hinsdale Central Foundation and Hinsdale Central High School to support youth education and sports in the greater Chicago region.

Bouchard, a proud Hinsdale Central alumnus, has long credited the school’s academic and athletic programs with shaping his leadership values and lifelong commitment to teamwork, excellence, and community service. His latest contributions build upon a decades-long legacy of giving back to students and programs that helped launch his own success. Through these investments, Bouchard aims to ensure future generations of students have access to the same opportunities for learning, growth, and achievement, both in the classroom and on the field.

Hinsdale Central Foundation:

  • Over the years, Bouchard has donated $40,000.
  • Bouchard commits an additional $40,000 in donations over the next five years.

Helen & Robert Bouchard Endowed Scholarship:

  • Over the years, Bouchard and Esmark have donated more than $250,000, supporting 75 recipients.
  • Over the past three years, Bouchard has donated $100,000 to the Hinsdale Central Foundation for a new endowed scholarship.
  • The endowed scholarship awards two scholarships of $12,500 to one female and one male recipient annually.
  • The Hinsdale Central Foundation will manage the funds and distribution of the scholarships to students.
  • Bouchard has committed an additional $500,000 over the next six years.

Hinsdale Central High School Bouchard Fitness Center:

  • In 2025, Bouchard donated $50,000 to support the design of a new, state-of-the-art student training room and weight room at his alma mater.
  • The donation will support student-athlete recovery, health and performance. Learn more about the Bouchard Center Transformation here.
  • Previously, Bouchard donated $250,000 to support the training and weight room.
  • He has committed an additional $500,000 over the next six years.

“Jim’s generosity and vision have had a transformative impact on Hinsdale Central and its students,” said Cameron Cimala, President of the Hinsdale Central Foundation. “He continues to exemplify what it means to give back—investing not only in facilities and scholarships, but in the confidence and potential of every student. His unwavering commitment to youth education and sports will be felt for generations to come.”

Bouchard and Esmark have been tireless supporters of a wide range of educational, family health and wellness, youth sports and recreation programs. Since 2003, donations have totaled more than $10 million.

About Esmark, Inc.

Esmark, Inc. is a diversified, privately-held family company with a portfolio of industrial companies with strong roots in the steel industry. Over the years, Esmark has diversified its interests and operations into a number of businesses engaged in the industrial and commodity sectors. Esmark (a former publicly traded company on NASDAQ: ESMK) has focused on several key industries including steel services, oil and gas exploration, aviation, real estate, professional services, technology and youth sports development. The company is also an active corporate citizen in the communities it serves, having committed more than $10 million in philanthropic support of a wide range of humanitarian, education, family wellness and youth sports programs in Pennsylvania, Illinois and internationally. esmark.com

James Bouchard and Esmark have been tireless supporters of a wide range of educational, family health and wellness, youth sports and recreation programs.

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