LIMA and the licensing world mourn the loss of one of the great leaders of our industry. Cheryl Stoebenau passed away on Friday, September 4 at her home in Connecticut.

Cheryl accomplished a tremendous amount in her career, beginning with Hallmark in 1972, then moving to Coleco as Executive Director of Licensing working on Cabbage Patch Kids before forming her own agency, CAS Marketing, in 1986.  As one of licensing’s top agents, Cheryl helped to unite some of the industry’s largest manufacturers with leading content providers and licensors.

This June, Cheryl was inducted into the Licensing Hall of Fame for her many professional accomplishments. But, to anyone who knew her, it was Cheryl’s personal accomplishments that truly defined her.

As LIMA worked behind the scenes on her Hall of Fame induction, we had the opportunity to speak with a host of industry veterans who proudly called Cheryl a leader, a mentor and a friend. She was praised for her dedication, her heart, her strong ethics, and her selflessness – not to mention her unyielding, infectious energy. It was clear the lives she touched spanned all aspects of the industry, and all generations of licensing professionals.

Cheryl’s most important work was in all she did to better the lives of children around the world. Giving back was her mantra; using her resources to make a difference. To Cheryl, this was not something for which she sought praise – it was simply a matter of course.

For over a decade, she proudly steered LIMA’s charity committee, raising funds and awareness for Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation. She lead by example, never afraid to “make the ask” or push her committee to greatness. Under her guidance, the licensing community raised nearly $6 million for CBTF since 2005. Cheryl was the heart and soul of LIMA’s Charity Committee, and an unparalleled champion for the children whose lives she wanted to grace with the gift of hope.

Today, the hearts of her friends and colleagues in the licensing industry are heavy. We honor the life and dedication of a true leader and inspiration – she will be greatly missed, but we take comfort in knowing her legacy will shine on.

According to Cheryl’s wishes, donations can be made to Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation – please click here to access her obituary online.