Cobble Foundation Grant to Save the Trees

'Neath oaks that so long have stood watching--and poplars and maples and sycamores. A grant from the Cobble Foundation is helping the College to take preventive action to save its arboreal heritage, such as the oak beside the President Andrew Johnson Museum and Library (Old College).

The Cobble Family Foundation of Friendsville, Tennessee, has made a $17,500 grant to Tusculum College to assist in preserving the beautitul trees on the campus. In making the announcement, President Knott said, "We are pleased that Bill and Donna Cobble and their family have seen fit to make this generous gift to Tusculum College. Some of the trees on campus are well over a century old. They are special to alumni and other friends and all of us who are privileged to work on campus. Many of the trees need professional pruning and treatment in order to extend their life expectancy. This grant is welcome support and will enhance the appearance of the campus and the quality of life for our students."

The Cobble Family Foundation was founded in 1998 by Bill and Donna Cobble and their children to address specific charitable needs in East Tennessee. Bill Cobble is a native of Greeneville and the Cobbles met and married while enrolled at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. They owned the Cobble Staffing Companies with 15 offices in East and Middle Tennessee. They sold the companies in 1996 and 1997. In recognition of their leadership in business and community service, they were inducted in the East Tennessee Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame in 1996. They are active in the Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church in Knoxville.

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