Giving With an Eye Toward the Future

Beginning in the 1920s and continuing for decades, virtually every civic organization and community betterment effort in Boone received a lift from Bertram (Bert) and Lillian Holst. Longtime owners and operators of the Holst Hotel in downtown Boone, the couple married in 1924 and immediately began to donate their time, talent, and resources in support of causes throughout the community.

One of their special interests was boosting educational causes as Bert was the son of the local Superintendent of Schools and Lilian moved to the area in the early 1920s to teach. After decades of success in business, the couple made major gifts in support of several Boone organizations—including what is now DMACC Boone Campus—in 1981.

The Bertram P. and Lillian Holst Endowment provided $50,000 to be used to ensure the continuation of a quality Arts and Science division at the College. Decades later, the endowment was merged with a separate $50,000 gift made by the Holsts. Today, the endowment continues to have an impact on students studying on the Boone Campus.

In 2022, nine students were awarded a scholarship from the endowment.

“I greatly appreciate the opportunities that come with a scholarship like this,” says Allison Arnold of Ogden, who received a scholarship from the endowment. “This gift helps me focus on my studies without worrying how I am going to pay for it. I am deeply honored to receive this assistance on my college journey.”

If you are interested in establishing a lasting legacy for future generations, contact the DMACC Foundation today.