Nathan Boniske's Philanthropic Legacy: A Gift of Land and Values

In the verdant hills of Western North Carolina, a story of familial legacy and environmental stewardship unfolds through the actions of Nathan Boniske and his family, devoted friends of the University of North Carolina Asheville and a staunch advocate for education and conservation.

Boniske's journey was profoundly influenced by his parents, who instilled in him a deep reverence for UNC Asheville's liberal arts and sciences education and a commitment to preserving the natural beauty of their surroundings. In 2006 and 2007, their gifts of real estate, made in honor of Rick Maas, a distinguished environmental studies professor at UNC Asheville and a visionary leader in water quality research, further shaped Boniske's dedication. As founder and co-director of UNC Asheville's Environmental Quality Institute (EQI), Maas significantly

impacted environmental education, research, and technical assistance for nearly two decades. After Nathan's father passed away, he and his siblings decided to honor his parents' legacy by making a similar gift: a pristine parcel of wetlands near UNC Asheville's campus.

Even many savvy philanthropists often overlook real estate as a philanthropic asset. Whether it's a residence, vacation home, farm, commercial property, or land, gifts of real estate can support vital causes for years to come. By transferring property directly or including instructions in one's will or trust agreement, individuals can seamlessly contribute to their chosen charitable causes while maximizing tax benefits. By safeguarding a vital watercourse and perpetuating a legacy of conservation, Boniske's gift transcends the mere transfer of land—it embodies his family's commitment to protecting nature for future generations.

Beyond the ecological impact, Boniske's philanthropic gesture is rooted in a conscious acknowledgment of their family's advantages and a desire to contribute positively to society. He seeks to inspire others, including his own children, to embrace their opportunities while recognizing the importance of giving back and supporting public education as a pathway to societal advancement.

Through this act of generosity, Boniske exemplifies how family traditions, grounded in the principles of stewardship and education, can have a lasting impact on communities and institutions. In the broader context of UNC Asheville's history and Western North Carolina's natural beauty, Boniske's philanthropic legacy serves as a testament to the enduring power of thoughtful giving and the profound influence of familial values. Through the Boniske family's actions, we are encouraged to consider how personal contributions can shape landscapes and inspire generations, embodying the transformative potential of philanthropy and the preservation of cherished values.