BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A local college has received a donation to better support financial literacy and stability for its students.

The Follis Knight family donated $600,000 to the Whatcom Community Foundation who selected Bellingham Technical College (BTC) as the recipient. BTC was selected to receive the donation based on the alignment of values between the donor’s family and the college.

“Christopher Knight and Kelly Follis deeply valued education access and financial literacy. BTC’s commitment to holistic student support—which is increasingly complex—perfectly aligns with their vision. This project is a meaningful way to continue their legacy and build on BTC’s innovative, entrepreneurial approach,” said Mauri Ingram, CEO and President of the Whatcom Community Foundation. “It will create a model for other higher ed institutions while making a profound impact in Whatcom County for generations to come, one student at a time.”

The college plans to use the money donated to help students learn more about finances to ensure that more students are not left without basic necessities during their education.

“We know that the ability to afford college can make or break a student’s ability to start and complete a degree that will benefit them and their families for a lifetime. Getting this funding to help our students take the fullest advantage of all of the financial supports on our campus and in our community will go a long way in our work to make sure everyone in our community has access to a transformational college education and to keep current students better supported as they pursue their path,” said BTC President James Lemerond. 

A “financial wellness hub” will be established to expand BTC’s food pantry, provide supplies for basic needs and support various campus resources.