Knox Receives Multi-Million Dollar Gift to Support Student Success

Knox recently received a generous gift to increase support for the College’s business program and its career center. 

To ensure Knox students receive the education and support needed to have postgraduate success, Trustee Joseph ’67 and Diane Bastian have given a multi-million dollar gift to endow a faculty chair in business and to increase support offered by the Bastian Family Center for Career Success. 

“It has been a pleasure working with Joe and Diane to ensure that Knox students have the education, experiences, and skills needed to be successful and have a positive impact on their communities and the world after Knox,” said President C. Andrew McGadney. “ I have also enjoyed getting to know their family history, and I am inspired by their love for Knox and their appreciation of the power of our liberal arts education.”

Joe Bastian has served as a member of the Board of Trustees since 2013, and Joe and Diane have been supporting Knox for decades. Their gift for the renovation of Alumni Hall created the Bastian Family Center for Career Success. The Bastian family’s history at Knox is deep including Joe, who graduated with an economics degree; his brother, Pete, who attended Knox; and his sister, Casey who graduated with a degree in American studies.  

After pursuing successful careers, Joe and Diane left their corporate jobs and, along with Casey, joined together to build a Panera Bread franchise. They ultimately grew the business to include 16 locations across North Carolina, and credit their experience at Knox as setting the foundation for their successful business endeavors. 

“Thanks to gifts like theirs, future generations of Knox students will have unparalleled access to academic and career opportunities. I could not be more grateful for their support, passion, and deep commitment to our mission.” said President McGadney.

“I think my mom would be proud of our ability to give back to Knox and that her investments have paid off and are leading to a good future for many other kids,” added Joseph.