Gift From UB Alumnus to Benefit Biology Students

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- University at Buffalo alumnus Irving R. Knobloch has made a gift to the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics to establish the Irving W. and Natalie A. Knobloch Endowment Fund to provide financial assistance to students studying the biological sciences.

"When I attended UB, I had a hard time studying and working at the same time," said Knobloch, who held various jobs to put himself through school, including delivering newspapers. "But the people at the university treated me really well and this gift is a way to show my gratitude to my alma mater."

Knobloch, a resident of East Lansing, Mich., understands first-hand the benefits of receiving support to pursue an education. "In 1929 when I was a UB student, the Great Depression hit the world hard, but fortunately UB gave me an assistantship that paid for my tuition and helped me complete my degree," said Knobloch.

After graduating magna cum laude in 1930 with a bachelor's degree in biological sciences, Knobloch attended Harvard University for one year and then returned to UB to complete a master's degree in biological sciences in 1932. He went on to receive a doctorate in botany from Iowa State University in 1942 and came back to UB to teach botany from 1942-45. He then taught botany at Michigan State University from 1945 until retiring in 1976.

Today, at age 90, Knobloch is a strong supporter of UB. "I know that it isn't easy to pay for a quality education today. UB does not receive enough funding from the state to meet all its needs. Private support can make the difference," he said.

The first Knobloch award will be presented in Fall 1998.

Knobloch has authored 12 books and more than 150 scientific articles. His books include "Readings in Biological Sciences," "Selected Papers in Botany," "Plant Collectors in Mexico" and "Fern Hybrids and Ferns of Chihuahua Mexico." He has also been listed in "American Men and Women of Science," "Who's Who in America," "Who's Who in the Midwest" and "Who's Who in Science and Religion."

For information on how you can help support the University at Buffalo, go to http://www.buffalo.edu/giving.