Inaugural Fuel the Fire Giving Challenge Surpasses Goal

Knox College held its inaugural Fuel the Fire Giving Challenge from October 27 to November 4, 2023 to jumpstart athletic fundraising for the year. The goal was to raise $65,000 for the Knox athletic program through team challenges and the participation of student-athletes and coaches.

More than 866 donors joined the challenge and raised over $127,000 to support student-athletes. Gifts were received from donors around the world, including the United States, Canada, India, Uzbekistan, Bulgaria, Costa Rica, Brazil, and the Dominican Republic.   

Corey Goff, the College’s new director of athletics, began his first athletic season while launching the campaign. “This challenge was an absolute game-changer for our athletic program. We unleashed the competitive spirit in our community, with alumni, faculty, coaches, student-athletes, parents, and friends all coming together to champion their favorite Prairie Fire teams,” Goff said. 

Each team identified ways donors would enhance their 2023-2024 season, including purchasing specialized equipment, providing travel costs, and supporting unique trip experiences. Kylee Callahan, a sophomore guard on the women’s basketball team, shared her appreciation.“The contributions we received during the campaign make it possible for us to compete in the Midwest Conference and play the sports we love. We are excited about our trip to Puerto Rico this winter and grateful to our generous donors who make experiences like this possible for us,” she said.  

"The student-athlete experience at Knox College is only possible with the tremendous support of alumni, family, and friends. All gifts will go directly to ensuring we provide the best for all sports teams on and off the field," Head Football Coach Aaron Willits ’08 said.

Brayden Bathgate ’23, former Knox baseball student-athlete, recently returned to Knox as an athletic fundraiser. He shared how important it is to continue connecting students with alumni and how much he looks forward to seeing what the Prairie Fire community can accomplish together. 

The Knox community generously gives their time and financial support throughout the year. Gifts help Knox continue to recruit and retain dedicated coaches and faculty and ensure that all Knox students can access and participate in the depth of experiences that a Knox education provides. Learn more about how you can support Knox and save the date for Founders Day and the #KnoxProud Day Giving Challenge on February 15.