Knox Stories
Rootabaga Brings Variety of Jazz Back to Galesburg
The 45th annual Knox-Rootabaga Jazz Festival returned to Galesburg with nearly a week’s worth of performances.
Venture Boldly
Office of Communications
2 East South Street
Galesburg, IL 61401
On May 1 through May 3, the Knox community came together in an extraordinary display of pride and purpose, raising $1,793,556 from 1,033 donors during this year’s Knox Proud Days.
In 48 hours, alumni, families, faculty, staff, and friends demonstrated the collective power of giving to fuel every corner of the Knox experience. The Knox Fund, the College’s annual fund, was the primary driver of participation. Contributions will fund various initiatives like scholarships, faculty excellence, athletics, immersive experiences, wellness initiatives, residential life, and more.
“Knox Proud Days are another true celebration of the Knox community, and your gifts to the Knox Fund are nothing short of inspiring,” Knox College President C. Andrew McGadney said. “Alumni, family, and friends came together and showed what’s possible when each of us does our part to support a transformational Knox education. Because of the support from donors like you, our students are thriving. Thank you for giving, thank you for believing in Knox, and thank you for showing what we can achieve together.”
The success of this year’s Knox Proud Days was propelled by the support from 15 gift matches and challenges from donors, which were all met. A special acknowledgment goes to Challenge Pool donors, whose support inspired others to give: Bill ’64 and Phillis Buck, Mark Draper ’89, Greg ’68 and Peggy Duick, Marty ’80 and Cathy Glickman, Robin Petrie Gold ’70, John Sauter ’63, Bob and Barbara Schmid ’62, Janet Shroyer ’59, Elizabeth Scott Conor ’90, Juliana Tioanda ’95, Michael Tweedle ’73 and Christine Poon, Steve Walton ’74, Dick Whitcomb ’57, and several other generous alumni and parents who wished to remain anonymous.
Also as part of Knox Proud Days, donors who contributed $100 or more received a pair of ‘Knox Socks.’ Thanks to their generosity, 592 pairs of socks are being sent.
“Congratulations, Knox community! You came together to make Knox Proud Days a success,” said Assistant Vice President for Advancement Operations Sandra Gray. “Giving days show how donors of all kinds can make a real difference for our students, faculty, and campus. It is the power of collective giving.”
Knox Proud Days also coincided with events celebrating Venture Boldly, the College's first comprehensive campaign in more than 20 years, on campus and in Galesburg. Hundreds of Knox and Galesburg community members attended the event and learned more about the ways the Venture Boldly comprehensive campaign is strengthening every aspect of the Knox experience. To learn more, visit https://www.knox.edu/venture-boldly.
Support for Knox College extends beyond Knox Proud Days, with gifts made year-round to ensure the continued success of our students and programs. Each contribution supports Knox and helps build a bold future for generations to come. Make a gift here.
Published on May 19, 2025
Scott Holland, Office of Communications