Florida Polytechnic University’s new athletics program has received its first philanthropic gift, a $60,000 contribution from longtime Lakeland residents Bob and Deedra Knight. The milestone donation marks an exciting step forward for Florida Poly Athletics as the University builds its inaugural sports teams and gains support from the local community.
The Knights’ gift will help the athletic department address organizational needs as the program continues to kick into gear, providing valuable support during its early stage of development.
With all the excitement surrounding Florida Poly Athletics’ first year, Deedra Knight said the couple saw an opportunity to make a difference by supporting the University’s newest endeavor.
“Florida Poly Athletics is new and there are a lot of exciting opportunities for the program,” she said. “Other supporters are assisting with various other facets of the University, so we thought we would do this and take on something different. It’s nice to be able to get involved at the beginning and help something grow.”
For Bob Knight, the new athletics program can help fuel the University’s growth, adding a new dimension to campus life.
“I think athletics are good for students. Everybody needs things to rally around, and sports have a way of bringing people together,” he said. “Athletics will help more people learn about Florida Poly, both statewide and around the country. I think there’s great potential here, and it’s wonderful to be part of something that’s just getting started.”
The Knights have deep roots in the Lakeland community and a long history of business and civic involvement.
Bob Knight served as chairman of the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo from 2012 to 2018. A U.S. Navy veteran, he worked at Linder Industrial Equipment before founding Knight Industrial Equipment in 1984. The engineering and construction company, based at Lakeland-Linder Airport, managed multimillion-dollar contracts across the United States and internationally, including Canada, Morocco and Russia.
Deedra Knight is the owner of Interiors and Accessories, a Lakeland-based interior design company.
Florida Poly President Dr. Devin Stephenson recognized the Knights for their generous support and commitment to the University, highlighting the significance of the historic gift.
“This generous gift represents an extraordinary vote of confidence in the future of Florida Poly Athletics and the opportunities we are creating for our students,” Stephenson said. “I am deeply grateful to Bob and Deedra for their friendship, their generosity and their belief in our vision. They understand the potential of our University and what we can accomplish together. Their contribution sets a powerful example for others to follow and helps lay the foundation for a successful athletics program that will enrich the student experience and bring our University and the community closer together.”
Bryan Brooks, vice president of student affairs, enrollment management and strategic communications, said the contribution comes at a significant time for Florida Poly Athletics as the University prepares for a new era of collegiate sports.
“As Florida Poly continues to grow, athletics will play an important role in shaping the next chapter of our University,” Brooks said. “A strong athletics program builds school spirit and creates a more vibrant student experience. We’re building something special from the ground up, and this generous contribution gives us tremendous momentum as we establish a competitive program that will become an integral part of our University.”
Contact:
Christopher LoNigro
Sports Information Manager
863-553-8074 (cell)
