The Knox Foundation and James M. Hull made major gifts to Augusta State University totaling $3 million to assist in the growth and development of the Hull College of Business. The announcement was made by President William A. Bloodworth, Jr., during a news conference in the James M. Hull College of Business.
"We are very grateful to the Knox Foundation for their support of business education at Augusta State University," said Dr. William A. Bloodworth, Jr., adding, "This gift will take the Hull College of Business to a new level and will significantly impact the professional development of our students in the accountancy program."
The first major gift of $2 million to ASU came from the Knox Foundation to support the accountancy program in the Hull College by endowing a School of Accountancy and a chair.
"On behalf of all the trustees of the Knox Foundation, we are pleased to provide this financial support and to be part of the tremendous growth and momentum that Augusta State University is currently experiencing," said Jeff Knox, its executive director. "It is our hope that this endowment for a school of accountancy will greatly enhance the business college's ability to attract quality students as well as other private funding."
Mr. James M. Hull, the namesake of the business college and who was instrumental in obtaining the gift, made a $1 million gift to support scholarships within the accountancy program. "My grandfather and father greatly admired the Knox family through the years, and it gives me great pleasure to see our families joined in support of ASU and in pursuit of broader education for our community. The Knox's gift is important to the very vital work of creating better educational opportunities for our community, and their gift will be felt for many years to come."
Both the Knox Foundation and James M. Hull are well known for their philanthropic efforts in the community and state. Mr. Hull said that the Knox Foundation's broad knowledge and keen insight into the philanthropic landscape in Augusta is second to none.
Mr. Boone Knox, chief executive officer of the Knox Foundation, said, "It is especially a privilege to join the Hull family in further support of the Hull College of Business."
