The foyer of the Stokes Student Center on the Pfeiffer University campus in Misenheimer will pay tribute to a well-known local businessman and his wife.
Longtime Pfeiffer benefactors and past owners of Bear Insurance in Albemarle “Bear” and Eleanor Knotts were recently recognized for their commitment, support and tremendous dedication to the university during a special thank-you dinner held in their honor Oct. 20.
“For decades, Bear and Eleanor have made a significant difference for Pfeiffer University and the local community,” said Pfeiffer president Dr. Chuck Ambrose. “From their impact as volunteers on various civic projects to their support and generous contributions to the university, their extraordinary friendship and commitment have played a major role in the lives of local residents, especially Pfeiffer students. We are eternally grateful for their unwavering dedication, and it is very fitting for the entrance of our student center to bear their names.”
The Knotts made a significant contribution to the $3 million dollar renovations made last fall to the Stokes Student Center, which was built in 1964 and was named for Pfeiffer’s third president Dr. J. Lem Stokes II.
The student center houses the Offices of Student Development, the university minister, student government and the student newspaper. It is also the hub for student activities, organizations, the university bookstore, dining hall, game room, and more.
Champions of higher education, the Knotts have a strong history of philanthropy and leadership at Pfeiffer.
Bear Knotts was elected to the Board of Trustees at Pfeiffer in 1982 and was named trustee emeritus in 2004. In 1980, he was awarded an honorary membership into the Pfeiffer Alumni Association for his efforts on behalf of the university.
For years, the couple has generously contributed to Pfeiffer, including the establishment of the Bear and Eleanor Knotts Endowed Scholarship Fund, which is given to students, preferably business majors, who exemplify citizenship and leadership abilities.