King University to establish new honors college thanks to $34 million gift
The gift comes from John and Ann Tickle and represents the largest gift the university has ever received.
King University has received the largest gift in its history from John and Ann Tickle. The couple’s $34 million gift will establish the Ann and John Tickle Honors College, as well as enhance college facilities, establish honors scholarships, and advance academic excellence. The Ann and John Tickle Honors College will be open for applications in the 2026-2027 school year for the Fall 2027 semester.
According to an article on King University’s website, John Tickle is quoted as saying of the reasons behind his and Ann’s gift, “As first-generation college students, Ann and I believe strongly in the power of education to transform lives and communities. Ann and I are excited to be able to provide this gift to King University during our lifetimes so we can see the positive impact it will have on the university and Bristol. King plays a vital economic and cultural role in our community, and our hope is that this gift will inspire others to join us in supporting and strengthening this great university, helping secure the future of higher education in Bristol for another 160 years.”
John is a Bristol, Tennessee native and is the chairman of Strongwell Corporation, a manufacturing company that has its headquarters in Bristol, Virginia. Under John’s guidance, the company has grown to be an industry leader in pultrusion technology. Ann Tickle is an educator and community advocate who has meaningfully contributed to causes that support education, children, and women. The couple has directed significant philanthropy to the Bristol, Tennessee community.
Ann said, “King University adds vibrancy to Bristol through its students, faculty and staff, sporting events, cultural activities, and beautiful campus. In addition, Bristol benefits from the intellectual resources, academic opportunities, and innovative ideas that come from being home to an institution of higher learning. The King faculty prepare students to serve their professions and communities with purpose and integrity. We hope many of these students will make Bristol their home when they graduate.”
Dr. Andrew Tooley, the president of the university, said, “This extraordinarily generous gift from John and Ann represents a defining moment in the life of King University. Their gift will greatly accelerate our strategic vision for King. As an institution of academic rigor, rooted in the Christian faith, we seek to provide an exceptional and transformative education for our students and graduate talented young men and women who will significantly contribute to the flourishing of our community.”
Further details will be released about the honors college, applications, scholarships, and more in the near future.
For more information about King University, visit the school’s website.