On Friday Oct. 25, the Dobo Family granted UNC Wilmington a $2.5 million endowment in the name of Bill Dobo.

 

The funds derive from a remainder trust generated by Bill and Bob Dobo, amounting to $2.5 million each. The Dobo brothers created the trust 12 years ago as an unrestricted endowment, so the university could support its greatest needs at the time. Bill passed away in June, and Bob passed in July of 2009. Both were alumni of Wilmington College.

 

Vice Chancellor for University Advancement Eddie Stuart said the funds will likely be used for scholarships, diversity scholarships and supplying the new Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. The fund will generate $250,000 annually for the university to use as it sees fit.

 

“There are very few funds that are discretionary,” Stuart said.

Stuart said the Dobo endowment ranks in the top five of UNCW’s all-time contributions from education advocates. The endowment should help in lowering the cost of education and “helping us build the type of institution we ultimately want to become.”

 

“Students need to know that there are people out there willing to make contributions like this,” Stuart said.

 

The history of the Dobos’ support and involvement with the university is no secret. The most apparent landmark is Dobo Hall, which houses UNCW’s chemistry and biology departments. However, the Dobos were not merely involved with the hard sciences, but also appreciated the arts as well—specifically, music.

 

The Cultural Arts Building’s Beckwith Recital Hall signifies another contribution from the Dobo Family, named in honor of Bill’s wife, Barby.

 

“Her love of music is evident in naming the recital hall,” said Frank Bongiorno, chair of the music department at UNCW. Bongiorno first met the Dobo Family when the university decided to incorporate a “one of a kind and usable” recital hall in Wilmington. The name Beckwith is Barby’s maiden name.

 

Bongiorno stayed in touch with the Dobos even after finalizing the business with the recital hall. After Bill and Barby’s passing, his support for the family remained.

 

Regarding the recent endowment on Bill’s behalf, Bongiorno echoes the sentiment of the Dobos’ continuing support for UNCW. While saddened that they may not witness their developments flourish, he appreciates their advocacy of education.

 

“It’s just another example of the Dobos’ commitment toward education, especially with science and art,” Bongiorno said.